Why Do Dogs Sleep so Much?

Anyone who has ever owned a dog knows that they love their sleep. Dogs, in fact spend an average of 12-14 hours a day snoozing away. This may seem like a lot, but there are actually several reasons why dogs sleep so much. 

Physical Development 

Puppies and young dogs sleep more than adult dogs because they are growing and developing rapidly. Sleep is essential for them to repair their bodies and tissues, and to release hormones that help them grow and develop. 

Energy Conservation 

 

 

 

 

 

Dogs are descended from wolves, and wolves are crepuscular hunters, meaning that they are most active at dawn and dusk. This means that they spend a lot of time sleeping during the day to conserve energy for nighttime hunting.

Homeostasis 

Sleep is also important for maintaining homeostasis, which is the body’s balance of internal processes. When dogs sleep, their bodies are able to regulate their temperature, blood pressure, and hormones. 

Stress Relief 

Dogs also sleep as a way to cope with stress. When they are feeling anxious or stressed, they may curl up in a safe place and take a nap. This helps them to relax and to reduce their stress levels. If your dog is anxious and having trouble sleeping calming aids can help. Loud noises such as fireworks can cause your dog to get stressed.

Brain Development

 

Sleep is also important for brain development in dogs. As puppies, they need a lot of sleep to form new connections between their brain cells. This helps them to learn and to develop their cognitive abilities. 

Senior Dogs 

Older dogs sleep more than younger dogs. This is because their bodies are not as efficient as they once were, and they need more time to rest and to repair themselves. Try to ensure that older dogs are eating the correct food and are getting their vitamins and supplements. 

Inactivity

Dogs that are inactive also tend to sleep more than active dogs. This is because they have less energy to expend, and they need more time to rest. Not unlike humans, dogs require a certain amount of activity to keep them mentally stimulated, healthy and create a natural sleeping routine.

Medical Conditions 

In some cases, excessive sleepiness can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. If your dog is sleeping more than usual, or if they are also showing other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting, it is important to take them to the vet to rule out any medical problems. 

How Much Sleep is Too Much? 

As a general rule, if your dog is sleeping more than 14 hours a day, or if they are sleeping more than they used to, it is worth talking to your vet. 

Tips for Getting Your Dog to Sleep 

If you are concerned that your dog is not sleeping enough, here are a few tips: 

• Provide your dog with a comfortable sleeping area. This should be quiet, dark, and away from drafts. 
• Create a regular sleep schedule for your dog. This will help them to get into a routine and to sleep at night. 
• Avoid over-exerting your dog. If you exercise your dog too much during the day, they may be too tired to sleep at night. 
• Provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation. This will help them to feel tired at bedtime. 

If you are still having trouble getting your dog to sleep, talk to your vet. They may be able to offer some additional tips or recommend a medication to help your dog sleep. 

Remember, sleep is essential for your dog’s health and well-being. By understanding why dogs sleep so much, you can help your furry friend get the rest they need.