SLEEP…zzz
Why Sleep Matters So Much for Your Dog
We often think of dogs as always ready to go—playful, energetic, and eager for the next walk or game. But behind all that energy is one simple truth: dogs need a lot of sleep. In fact, most adult dogs sleep 12 to 14 hours a day, and puppies, seniors, and larger breeds often sleep even more. Dogs take their sleep over a 24 hour period-this is called polyphasic.
Sleep isn’t just downtime for your dog. It’s essential for their physical health, emotional balance, and ability to learn. Here’s why it matters—and how you can make sure your dog is getting the rest they need.
1. Sleep Helps the Body Recover
Just like us, dogs repair and rebuild their bodies while they sleep. Muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune system support all happen during rest. After a day of walking, running, or training, sleep gives your dog the chance to recover properly.
If your dog’s not sleeping well or isn’t getting enough rest, it can take longer for wounds to heal or for sore muscles to recover—especially important for active dogs or those recovering from injury.
2. It Supports Brain Function and Learning
If you’re training your dog—whether it's basic training or something more advanced—sleep is your secret weapon. Dogs process and store new information while they sleep, so rest directly supports learning and memory.
Ever noticed your dog picking up on a new cue better the next day? That’s their brain doing some behind-the-scenes work during sleep.
3. It Keeps Behaviour in Check
Overtired dogs can be irritable, just like overtired kids. A dog that hasn’t had enough sleep might seem cranky, hyper, or even anxious. They may become more reactive or struggle to settle down. Proper rest helps keep your dog emotionally balanced and better able to handle stress.
This is especially true for puppies, who often resist naps because they’re too stimulated—but desperately need them.
4. Puppies and Senior Dogs Need Even More
Puppies sleep up to 18–20 hours a day. All that growing, learning, and adjusting to the world is exhausting. Regular naps (and plenty of overnight sleep) are crucial for healthy development.
Older dogs also need extra rest. Their bodies take longer to recover, and their energy naturally dips. Don’t mistake this for laziness—it’s just part of aging well.
5. Choose the Right Sleeping Setup
The type of bed and sleeping environment you offer can make a big difference in how well your dog rests.
Bed type: Some dogs love a soft, padded bed with bolsters to curl up against. Others prefer something firmer or even a raised bed for airflow. Orthopedic beds are great for seniors or dogs with joint issues. Dogs that like to sprawl may do better with a flat mattress-style bed, while nesters often love cave beds or donut-style ones.
Height matters: If your dog is older, has mobility issues, or is very small, avoid high beds or furniture they have to jump onto. It can be hard on their joints—or even dangerous. Provide a low, accessible bed in a quiet area, especially for night time sleep, or you can provide steps for height seekers.
Location: Choose a sleeping spot away from high-traffic areas. Dogs need a space where they feel safe and undisturbed. Some like being close to their humans, while others prefer a more tucked-away corner. Crates can also be a great sleep zone for dogs who enjoy the security of an enclosed space—just be sure the crate is comfortable and not used only for confinement.
Pay attention to your dog’s preferences. If they keep moving from one spot to another, they might be too hot, too cold, or not fully comfortable.
The Bottom Line: Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Sleep isn’t a luxury for dogs—it’s a biological need. Supporting healthy sleep habits and offering a safe, comfortable space to rest will improve your dog’s mood, learning ability, and overall well-being.
So the next time you see your dog curled up and snoozing in the sun, know they’re not being lazy. They’re doing something vital for their health—and earning that next burst of zoomies.
