My Dog Sleeps All Day: Should I Be Worried?

Have you ever wished you could sleep all day, just like your dog does? Dogs definitely sleep more than people, and while we may be a little envious of their luxurious napping habits, it’s important that we know when to be worried about how much they’re sleeping.

How much sleep do dogs really need?

Do all dogs sleep all day, or is it just yours? All dogs have different sleeping habits, so it can be kind of hard to judge what’s normal. How much sleep your dog actually needs depends on his environment, activity level, breed, and age.

If your dog sleeps an average of 12-14 hours per day, that’s pretty normal. However, dogs that sleep more than 15 hours a day should be observed closely when they’re awake. If they seem lethargic or distant from their humans and other pets, that’s cause for concern.

Consider changes in your dog’s environment if he seems to be sleeping a bit more than usual. Small changes in your dog’s routine can lead to major changes in his sleeping habits.

• Activity has increased: Maybe your dog is attending a new daycare. Maybe you’re on a fitness kick and suddenly taking him for longer walks. If your dog’s activity level has increased, he might just be more tired than usual. He may simply need more time to adjust before he settles back into his normal sleeping pattern.

 

• A change in routine: Did you move recently or change your work schedule? Dog’s sometimes become depressed when their routines change. And, if you’re gone for longer periods, they might simply be bored and need more stimulation.

 

• Hot weather: Dogs sleep more when they’re hot.

 

• New pet in the home: If you have a new kitten or puppy in the house, your dog may just be tired and needing more rest.

 

Other factors that affect how much your dog sleeps:

Puppies and older dogs need more sleep than other dogs. If you have a puppy, make sure he has a quiet place to nap during the day. Senior dogs that are sleeping a lot more than normal and having difficulty walking or standing should see the vet in case they are developing arthritis or other joint issues. Dogs that are very large, like Great Pyrenees, Mastiffs, or Saint Bernards tend to sleep more than little dogs.

In general, a little extra sleep isn’t something to be concerned about. However, if you have any reason for concern, don’t hesitate to call your vet. That way you can rule out any underlying health issues and put our mind at ease.