Exploration into Canine Slumber: A Look by Cassie Shortsleeve, Reviewed by Catherine Barnette, DVM, Published July 28, 2020, with a review on July 31, 2025.
Dogs are known for their long naps throughout the day, but have you ever wondered why they sleep so much? In this article, we delve into the factors that influence a dog's sleep patterns, from age and breed to health conditions and environmental factors.
Firstly, a dog's sleep requirements vary significantly based on age, size, and breed. Puppies, with their rapid growth and development, sleep the most, requiring around 18-20 hours of sleep per day. Adult dogs typically sleep for 12-14 hours daily, while senior dogs often need as much as 16-18 hours of rest each day.
Large breeds, such as Mastiffs and Saint Bernards, tend to sleep longer, often 16-18 hours per day, due to their bigger size and greater recovery needs. On the other hand, small breeds like Terriers usually sleep for 12-14 hours, as they have higher energy levels and activity. High-energy or working breeds, such as Border Collies and Jack Russells, need less sleep – around 10-12 hours – but require sufficient mental and physical stimulation to stay active and alert.
Environmental factors, such as lack of exercise or playtime, can also cause a shift in a dog's sleeping habits. Interestingly, dogs that are under-stimulated or bored may sleep more due to having little else to do.
Health conditions can also impact a dog's sleep. Medical issues like hypothyroidism, arthritis, epilepsy, and sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy) can cause changes in sleep amount and quality. A dog sleeping all day could be suffering from depression, diabetes, an out-of-whack thyroid, or hearing loss.
A puppy falling asleep mid-play or mealtime could be a sign of canine narcolepsy, a sleep disorder that affects dogs. Abnormal dog sleep habits could indicate deeper health issues, so if you suspect your dog's sleep health is abnormal, experts agree the sooner you can get your pup checked out, the better.
Sleep-disordered breathing can cause loud snoring and daytime drowsiness, especially in short-nosed and toy dog breeds. If you notice your dog exhibiting these symptoms, it's important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical causes.
In summary, dogs' heavy sleep habits relate to energy conservation, developmental needs, and recovery, with significant variation by age, size, breed, activity level, and health. Puppies and senior dogs sleep the most, large breeds generally exceed small breeds in sleep hours, and high-energy breeds need less total sleep but ample stimulation and quality rest. Excessive sleep in adult dogs without clear reason may warrant a veterinary checkup.
- Engaging in regular health-and-wellness practices, such as maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine, can help ensure a dog sleeps optimally, supporting both physical and mental health.
- Notably, a dog's sleep patterns can provide insight into its mental health, as abnormal sleeping habits could indicate signs of depression, diabetes, or other health conditions, highlighting the importance of monitoring and addressing such changes promptly for the dog's well-being.
