Everybody has encountered dogs that appear capable of dozing down anywhere, occasionally in the silliest situations. Dogs’ immune systems, metabolism, and other vital processes depend heavily on sleep. Dogs’ bodies spend most of the night producing proteins that repair the tissue damage done from when they are awake and are more metabolically active. Sleep is essential for dogs, but can too much be a bad sign?
If your doggie is sleeping more than usual, there could be a few causes. Let’s review why your dog sleeps so much and when you should be worried. Try to stay awake as you read this post about your pup’s sleeping habits.
How much Sleep do Dogs Need?

Dogs spend approximately 50% of their time asleep, although older dogs and puppies require the most sleep
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Dogs typically spend up to 50% of their time sleeping, 30% of their waking hours relaxing, and just 20% being active. Older dogs need more sleep simply because they get tired quickly, and bigger breeds generally spend more time sleeping. How much sleep does your dog need? This section will cover it.
How much Sleep do Puppies Need?
Puppies play until they are exhausted, just like babies do. They may require up to 18 to 20 hours of sleep to restore their energy. They will need a sleep schedule because they aren’t yet physically able to go for extended periods without going to the bathroom. This is normal if you have a puppy under twenty weeks, and you shouldn’t worry.
How much do Adult Dogs Sleep?
Dogs’ peculiar habits may give the impression that they are constantly sleeping. Dogs don’t just sleep at night as people do; they also sleep for a while during the day. Although it may appear like they always take naps, they only get about 12 to 14 hours of sleep each day. You may be more aware of their sleeping habits because your schedule differs from yours.
How much Sleep do Senior Dogs Need?
You can anticipate your adult dog’s naps to lengthen gradually as they age—around seven. They will require more time to recover from exercise and become more easily exhausted. Changes in the timing of their naps are also typical. Older dogs sleep longer during the day and wake up more frequently at night. They may sleep around 18 hours as puppies do at this age.
When Should you Worry about Dogs Sleeping?

If your dogs sleeping pattern suddenly changes or they become difficult to wake up then you should have them checked out by a vet
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Concern should be expressed if your dog’s sleeping patterns or schedule undergo any significant changes, whether they’re napping more than usual or being active when your dog would usually be sleeping. Dogs who are particularly difficult to wake up or who lack the motivation to engage in their usual interests should be checked by a vet.
Keep a sleep diary for your dog and schedule a visit with your veterinarian if you discover that your pup is sleeping more than usual or having difficulty waking up. There are a few reasons your dog might be sleeping longer. If your dog does change sleep habits, a checkup could help ensure your pup is in tip-top shape. Let’s look at some of the causes.
Hypothyroidism
Your dog may have hypothyroidism if they have been recently very sleepy or if there are problems with their skin or hair. Fortunately, thyroid issues in dogs are simple to identify and treat. Vets know the effects of hypothyroidism in dogs and how to treat it, even though the precise origin of thyroid malfunction in our canine friends remains unknown.
Most frequently, dogs between the ages of 4 and 10 are found to have hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism in dogs is typically brought on by an autoimmune condition that decreases or inflames the thyroid tissue. No known genetic causes exist.
Diabetes

Sweet-smelling breath and excessive fatigue could be signs that your dog is suffering from diabetes.
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Unusually sweet-smelling breath is another sign that your animal might be diabetic. Because your animal will be burning fat instead of sugar, their body will begin to produce ketones, specifically acetone, which can cause sweet, fruity breath. Animals with diabetes frequently exhibit signs of fatigue and reluctance to engage in some of their routine activities.
An animal with diabetes may experience weakening in certain muscles, and because they may also be suffering from malnutrition, they will spend more time sleeping and less time being active. Vomiting may result from ketoacidosis, particularly if your pet has advanced diabetes. Older animals are more likely to experience this, but it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian in case of vomiting.
Stress, Illness, or Diet

Stress or boredom are also factors that can affect your dogs sleeping pattern and cause them to sleep more
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A dog experiencing emotional problems like worry, stress, or boredom would sleep a lot. If your dog is nervous or anxious, you’ll notice that they become lethargic and frequently fall asleep. Giving the dog a program of activities might help to stimulate and improve both its mental and physical health. Your dog may become more sleepy or lethargic due to various illnesses.
Infectious disorders frequently exhibit additional symptoms, aiding your veterinarian in diagnosing. People who consume sugar or high-fat diets tend to “crash” in the middle of the day, and dogs with inadequate diets will become sluggish and do the same. Their lack of energy or excess weight may also cause them to sleep more during the day. If you believe your dog’s increased slumber results from weight gain, think about portion management for your pet!
Conclusion
You may feel like sleeping more than eight hours a day is excessive, and it would be for humans! In dogs, it’s expected. Dogs sleep a ton, and often it’s normal. However, if you notice your doggie sleeping more than usual, it’s always best to get them a complete check-up.
This will help your dog if they have any underlining health issues. Once the underlining problem is treated, they may be more energetic. It could be urgent if you notice your dog vomiting, coughing, or acting sick.
Other dog owners may be worried about their dogs sleeping habits too. It may help them if you share this post with them, so they know what’s normal and what’s not. You might find our other articles helpful, and they are linked below.
Up Next:
- Why Do Dogs Sleep on Their Backs? You May Be Surprised
- The Reasons Dogs Sleep All Day, What Research Says
- My Dog Is Twitching in Their Sleep, Should I Be Concerned?
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