Find out how many hours of sleep your dog needs based on age, breed, and activity level.
Dogs spend a significant portion of their day sleeping - much more than humans. This isn't laziness; it's essential for their physical and mental health. Quality sleep helps with memory consolidation, immune function, and tissue repair.
18-20 hours daily
12-14 hours daily
16-18 hours daily
Adult dogs typically sleep 12-14 hours per day. Puppies need 18-20 hours, while senior dogs may sleep 16-18 hours. Working breeds often sleep less than companion breeds.
Dogs have different sleep cycles than humans. They spend less time in REM sleep, so they need more total sleep. Age, health, activity level, and breed all affect sleep needs.
Sudden increases in sleep, difficulty waking, or sleeping more than 18 hours (for adults) may indicate health issues. Consult your vet if you notice significant changes.
Yes, puppies need 18-20 hours of sleep for proper development. Sleep is crucial for brain development, immune system function, and growth.
Twitching indicates REM sleep and dreaming. Dogs dream like humans, and movements are normal. Only wake them if they seem distressed.
This is personal preference. Benefits include bonding and warmth. Concerns include disturbed sleep and reinforcing separation anxiety. Consistency is key.