How Many Hours Do Dogs Sleep a Day? Vet Approved 2025 Guide 🩺🐶
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How Many Hours Do Dogs Sleep a Day? Vet Approved 2025 Guide 🩺🐶
By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc
Ever wonder how much sleep your pup really needs? Dogs are natural nappers—often snoozing more than cats or humans. But what’s normal, and when should we worry? Here's everything you need to know in 2025. 🩺❤️
1️⃣ Average Sleep by Life Stage
- Puppies (0–6 mo): Need 16–20 h/day to grow and support their developing systems.
- Adult Dogs (6 mo–10 yr): Typically sleep 10–14 h daily, with most zzz’s at night.
- Senior Dogs (10+ yr): May again sleep more—up to 18–20 h—due to slower metabolism and rest needs.
2️⃣ Why Dogs Sleep More Than Us
- Polyphasic sleep: Short naps throughout the day, totalling 50–60% of the day.
- Less REM sleep: Dogs spend just ~10% of sleep in REM, compared to ~25% in humans.
- Breed & size: Big and small breeds tend to snooze more; working breeds may sleep less.
3️⃣ Factors That Affect Sleep Needs
- Age: Puppies & seniors sleep longest; adults need less but still 10–14 h.
- Breed/size: Giant breeds like mastiffs may nap up to 18 h, while medium dogs rest ~10–14 h.
- Activity: Active working dogs sleep less; couch dogs snooze more.
- Environment & health: Stress, illness, or pain can disrupt sleep—monitor changes.
4️⃣ Signs of Healthy vs Concerning Sleep
| Behavior | Normal | Concern |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeping ~12 h/day | ✔️ | ❌ if suddenly +2 h more |
| Multiple naps + quiet alertness | ✔️ | ❌ if extremely lethargic or hard to wake |
| Adjusted after exercise or stress | ✔️ | ❌ if ignores activities you know they enjoy |
5️⃣ Tips for Better Canine Sleep
- Consistent routine: Regular sleep and activity cycles help regulate rhythms.
- Comfortable space: Quiet, warm bed in a low-traffic area supports restorative rest.
- Exercise: Daily walks, play, mental enrichment—especially midday—improve sleep quality.
- Watch for changes: Excessive sleepiness, disinterest, or shifting patterns warrant a vet check.
🔍 Final Thoughts
Dog sleep varies by life stage, breed, and lifestyle. Generally, 10–14 h is perfectly normal for adults, while puppies and seniors may need up to 20 h. Sleep well supports overall health—but sudden changes or excessive fatigue may indicate underlying issues. 🐾🩺
If you're worried about your pup’s sleep—whether too much or too little—download the Ask A Vet app for personalized advice and peace of mind anytime. 📱❤️
