We’ve all heard the saying “dog tired,” but did you know it can be traced back to an old tale about Alfred the Great and his hardworking hunting dogs? Understanding your pet’s sleep needs has never been more critical, especially with the release of groundbreaking new research revealing fascinating insights into canine rest patterns.
How Many Hours Does a Dog Sleep in 24 Hours?
Although dogs are generally active, curious, and excitable creatures whose zest for life means they need more sleep than you might think: 12 to 14 hours a day for adults and 15 to 20 hours a day for puppies, this is entirely normal.
Cats and kittens need even more! If you watch your pet whilst they’re sleeping, you’ll see what positions they choose, which can help you make the right choice when buying them a lovely new bed. For example, many dogs stretch out on their side, suggesting they feel safe as their softer tummies are exposed.
Breaking Down Sleep Requirements by Age
Recent research from North Carolina State University has provided us with updated, comprehensive data on standard sleep patterns:
- Puppies (under 12 months): 18-20 hours per day
- Adult dogs (1-7 years): 12-14 hours per day
- Senior dogs (7+ years): 10-12 hours per day, though they may actually need more due to cognitive changes
New Research Reveals the Science Behind Canine Sleep
A groundbreaking 2020 study led by the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine has established the first modern baseline for healthy adult dog sleep patterns. The research followed 42 healthy adult dogs using collar-mounted activity monitors for two weeks, providing unprecedented insights into how our pets actually sleep in home environments.
Dr. Margaret Gruen, assistant professor of behavioural medicine at NC State and the study’s lead author, explains: "The study was necessary because research on dogs and sleep has outpaced our basic knowledge about what a 'normal' sleep/wake cycle looks like. The studies currently available are over 20 years old, and they have only followed small numbers of dogs or dogs that were not in a home environment."
What Makes This Research Revolutionary
The study discovered that most dogs follow a distinct pattern:
- First activity peak: 8am to 10am
- Midday lull: Natural rest period
- Second activity peak: 5pm onwards
This research is particularly significant because it establishes baselines that veterinarians can use to identify sleep disruptions linked to chronic pain, cognitive dysfunction, and other health issues.
The Sleep-Behaviour Connection: Why Quality Rest Matters
Recent findings published in the journal Animals reveal a concerning link between insufficient sleep and behavioural problems. Dogs that sleep less than 6 hours whilst their caregivers are in bed showed greater severity of problem behaviours, according to research involving 1,330 dogs.
This research suggests that REM sleep helps dogs process emotional memories and manage arousal levels—similar to humans. When dogs don’t get adequate rest, they may struggle with:
- Excessive barking during play
- Over-exuberant social interactions
- Difficulty coping with emotional situations
- Increased reactivity to stimuli
Factors That Influence Your Dog’s Sleep Needs
It’s important to note that some dogs may need more or less sleep, depending on several factors:
Breed Considerations
Large breeds, such as Great Danes or Mastiffs, may require more sleep than smaller breeds, like Chihuahuas or Jack Russell Terriers. Additionally, more active dogs may need extra rest to recover and recharge their bodies.
Activity Level Impact
Recent research confirms that more active dogs need additional sleep to rest and recover, while dogs with medical conditions, such as arthritis or pain, may require more sleep to cope with their symptoms.
Age-Related Changes
The age of your dog plays a significant role in determining its sleep requirements. Puppies require more sleep than adult dogs as they’re still growing and developing. As dogs age, they may experience changes in sleep architecture that can affect their cognitive function.
Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment for Your Dog
Understanding Sleep Positions and Bed Selection
A sleeping puppy curled up on a dog bed demonstrates the importance of comfort during rapid growth phases. Puppies need 18-20 hours of sleep per day during their development, making orthopaedic support crucial for growing joints and bones.
For side sleepers: If your dog stretches out on their side whilst sleeping, you’ll likely see them twitching their legs during dream phases. A deep-filled mattress, like the Blanket Mat, made of waterproof Oxford fabric with non-slip features, gives messy sleepers space to stretch out and dream to their heart’s content.
For curl-up sleepers: Many dogs curl up in a ball, nose to tail, which helps conserve warmth. A cosy grey oval bed with memory foam-crumb-filled cushion contours to your pet’s warm body, delivering supreme comfort whilst alleviating joint pain in recuperating or more mature animals.
Special Considerations for Senior Dogs
Older dogs can experience joint aches, much like humans. Choosing an orthopaedic bed delivers maximum support for seniors.
Our gusset dog mattress features a foam layer for added support—perfect for larger dogs who may suffer from arthritis, as well as for thinner dogs like greyhounds, which can be susceptible to pressure sores.
Expert Tips for Improving Your Dog’s Sleep Quality
Creating a Bedtime Routine
Following guidance from veterinary behavioural medicine experts, here are evidence-based recommendations:
- Establish consistent sleep and wake times
- Provide adequate daytime exercise to promote better nighttime rest
- Avoid feeding close to bedtime to prevent digestive discomfort
- Create a quiet, comfortable sleeping area away from household traffic
- Monitor for sleep disturbances that could indicate health issues
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
As Dr. Margaret Gruen notes: “We would like to help close the gap between when dogs likely begin to show sleep pattern shifts and when we hear about them, which often isn’t until they are bad enough that they are keeping owners awake at night."
Watch for these warning signs:
- Sudden changes in sleep duration
- Difficulty settling at bedtime
- Frequent waking during the night
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Behavioural changes accompanying sleep disruption
The Future of Canine Sleep Research
Cutting-edge research using polysomnographic studies reveals that dogs experience a similar sleep architecture to humans, including REM and non-REM phases. This research is particularly relevant for understanding canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome—a condition analogous to Alzheimer’s disease.
Understanding standard sleep patterns helps veterinarians identify early signs of cognitive decline, potentially leading to earlier intervention and improved quality of life for ageing pets.
Final Thoughts: Supporting Your Dog’s Sleep Health
In conclusion, a dog’s sleep requirements depend on various factors, but recent research provides us with more straightforward guidelines than ever before:
Sleep Requirements Summary:
- Puppies: 18-20 hours per day
- Adult dogs: 12-14 hours per day
- Senior dogs: 10-12 hours per day (may need more with health conditions)
Key factors affecting sleep needs:
- Activity level: More active dogs need additional recovery time
- Breed: Large and giant breeds typically sleep more
- Age: Both very young and senior dogs require extra rest
- Health: Medical conditions may increase sleep requirements
The relationship between sleep and behaviour is becoming increasingly clear, with insufficient rest linked to problem behaviours and emotional regulation difficulties. By providing a comfortable sleeping environment and monitoring your dog’s rest patterns, you can help ensure they get the restorative sleep necessary for optimal health and well-being.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s sleep habits, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your veterinarian. Early identification of sleep disruptions can lead to better outcomes for conditions ranging from chronic pain to cognitive dysfunction.
Remember, a well-rested dog is a happy and healthy one. Invest in high-quality bedding, maintain consistent routines, and be aware of any changes that may signal underlying health issues. Your furry friend’s sleep is just as important as their waking activities!
Thank you for reading this article. Your engagement means the world to us at Frenchie Breed.
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Sources:
- North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine Sleep Study (2020)
- Animals Journal: Sleep Characteristics in Dogs; Effect on Caregiver-Reported Problem Behaviours (2022)
- Frontiers in Veterinary Science: Sleep and Cognition in Aging Dogs (2023) Download a PDF
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