Why Does My Dog Sleep So Much? Discover Common Reasons and Solutions

Dogs sleep 12 to 14 hours a day or more, and puppies and older dogs sleep even more. See a vet if sleep changes suddenly.

Normal

Adult dogs sleep 12 to 14 hours a day. Puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours. Large breeds and seniors may sleep up to 18 hours.

Why

Dogs have more sleep cycles, spend time in light sleep and rest between activities.

Boredom

Dogs sleep more if they are bored.

See a vet

If your dog is lethargic, unwilling to play or sleeping much more than usual. It may signal illness such as hypothyroidism or diabetes.

Normal sleep amounts

Adult dogs sleep 12 to 14 hours per day. Puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours, and senior dogs may sleep 16 to 18 hours. Large breeds such as Mastiffs and Saint Bernards often sleep more than smaller breeds.

Sleep structure

Dogs spend about 50% of their day asleep, 30% awake but resting and 20% active. They have shorter sleep cycles than humans, about 16 minutes, so they wake more easily.

Factors

• Age: puppies are growing and older dogs tire easily.
• Breed and size.
• Activity level and lifestyle. Working dogs may sleep less.
• Weather: heat and cold can change sleep.
• Boredom, since a dog without stimulation sleeps more.

Signs of too much sleep

A dog that sleeps much more than usual, is hard to wake, avoids play or food, or loses interest in walks may be ill.

Medical causes

• Hypothyroidism.
• Diabetes.
• Anemia.
• Infections.
• Heart or kidney disease.
• Pain from arthritis.
• Depression after changes at home.
• Cushing’s disease.
• Medication side effects.

Boredom

Provide exercise, training, puzzle toys and social time.

Senior dogs

Sleep increases with age, but a sudden increase should be checked.

Sleep position

Dogs sleep in a variety of positions, such as curled up or belly up.

See a vet if

There is a sudden change in sleep, lethargy, weakness, reduced appetite, weight changes, coughing, limping or restless pacing at night. Dogs with cognitive dysfunction can have night time waking.

Bed

Provide a comfortable, quiet bed away from drafts.

How much dogs sleep

Adult dogs typically sleep 12 to 14 hours a day, puppies 18 to 20 hours and large breeds and seniors often more. Dogs spend about half their day asleep, about 30 percent awake but resting and 20 percent active. They have more sleep cycles than humans but spend less time in deep REM sleep per cycle.

When it is a concern

Sudden increases in sleep, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight change, excess thirst, stiffness or fewer interactions can signal disease such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis or infection. Boredom and lack of exercise cause long sleeping too. A veterinary exam and basic blood work can clarify. Daily walks and play improve mood and fitness.

Based on data from the American Kennel Club and the American Veterinary Medical Association