If you too wonder ‘Why do dogs sleep so much?’  I think you already know the answer to this question. Sleeping is what comes into your mind when you think of relaxing. The same applies for dogs. The positive energy you feel after waking up from sleep cannot be described in words, and you know that.

Dogs, as compared to humans, need even greater sleeping hours. Why? Let us learn about it in detail in this blog.

Understand your dog’s sleeping patterns

Dogs generally don’t sleep continuously for long hours. They sleep in multiple short periods throughout the day and night. This sleeping pattern is deep rooted in their ancestry. When the dogs lived in jungles, they had to stay alert of the potential dangers, because of which they could not sleep continuously for long hours. Their sleeping pattern is still deep rooted inside them, thus making them take naps instead of continuous sleep.

How long do dogs sleep per day?

On an average, dogs sleep for about 12 to 14 hours, depending on their age, breed, health and activity level. This means that about 50% of their day is spent while sleeping. Puppies and older dogs tend to sleep more, for about 18-20 hours a day. Adult dogs need 12-14 hours of sleep. 

If 50% of the day is spent sleeping, what do dogs do during the rest 50% of the day?

30% of the time, dogs are generally awake but not doing anything specific or you can say that they just hang out. They may be lying down and watching the random things around them and maybe they would be enjoying being lazy. And the rest 20%, they stay active.

Why do dogs sleep so much? 

Dogs have limited sources of entertainment. They don’t use their cell phones or watch TV for their entertainment. The time they play and walk is the most fun part of the day. And what next? They get tired and sleep in their dog beds. But is it the only reason why dogs sleep so much? 

Well, no.

Let us learn about the factors which affect the sleeping pattern of your fur baby.

• Age

Very young puppies and older dogs are more likely to spend most of their time asleep. Young dogs race around, explore everything and utilize all of their energy in no time. They sleep hard until their bodies recover for more playtime.

Older dogs have less energy, so they get tired very easily and end up sleeping to relax their body. Making your puppy sleep in a Nest Pet Sofa Bed can provide the warmth and comfort it needs.

• Breed

Certain dog breeds like the basset hound, are known for their long sleeping patterns and some people even address them as the ‘Slow Moving Basset Hound’. Larger breeds, such as Saint Bernard and Mastiffs, are known to sleep more than smaller breeds. 

Border Collies and Jack Russell Terriers also sleep less because they require more physical and mental stimulation. For such breeds a Chew-Proof Dog Bed is a good option to relax and feel comfortable.

• Health

Health issues can significantly impact a dog’s sleep. Overweight and sick dogs tend to sleep longer than healthy dogs. Conditions such as hypothyroidism and heart diseases cause increased fatigue among dogs, which leads to the need to sleep more.

 Dogs that are recovering from illness also sleep longer as compared to healthy dogs. You can make your dog sleep in Donut Dog Bed if the dog has issues related to weak bones.

• Activity level

The more the activity of the dog, the more will there be a need for sleep. Dogs that spend most of their time outdoors need more sleep to relax their body and recharge their body for the rest of the activities. Regular exercise and mental stimulation leads to better quality sleep.

• Diet

A dog which lacks a nutritious diet might need more sleeping hours as compared to the one that has a balanced diet.  Lack of proper nutrients can lead to the dog feeling more fatigued.

It is always suggested to monitor the dog’s sleeping pattern to know about the symptoms of any possible health issues. The help of a veterinarian can be taken to know if the change in sleeping pattern is due to a major issue or not.

Is it normal for a dog to sleep all day?

As already discussed, dogs spend about half of their day sleeping and for the rest of the day they may be either awake and doing nothing or they may be in their active mode. But does that mean that the dog must sleep all day?

Well, that is not normal. Excessive sleep can be concerning for the pet parent. If your fur baby is sleeping too much, it can be a sign of health issues like depression, diabetes and hyperthyroidism. Taking your pet to the veterinarian is highly suggested. 

Why do dogs drool in their sleep?

Dog drooling is generally considered normal. Drooling in breeds with large upper lips, like that of the Mastiff and Saint Bernard is normal. If your dog is drooling while sleeping, it can occur due to the following reasons:

• Relaxed jaw muscle during deep sleep
• Dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay
• Specified facial structure
• Dogs sleeping with their heads tilted downwards. 
  

Generally, drooling in dogs is not a worrying situation, but if along with drooling there are other symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite and restlessness, there is a need to take the help of a veterinarian.

Tips for ensuring quality sleep for your dog

Follow the tips mentioned below and you can help your furry friend have a relaxing and mindful sleep.

• Make a consistent sleep schedule.
• Ensure your dog gets enough exercise.
• Invest in quality beds like, Donut Dog Bed ,Nest Pet Sofa Bed  and Chew-Proof Dog Bed.
• Create a quiet and comfortable environment for your dog to sleep.
• Take your dog for regular health check-ups.

Now when you have understood all the facts about dog sleep, you can help your dog get a sound sleep and ensure its well-being. By providing them comfortable dog beds like Donut Dog Bed, Nest Pet Sofa Bed and Chew-Proof Dog Bed, you can gift your furry friend the restful sleep they need.

You can visit PetBuds A Online Pet Shop to explore a huge variety of pet accessories including toys, beddings, leashes, feeders and many more and ensure that your fur baby always stays happy and healthy.