Dog sleep

Dogs, loyal companions of humans, share the need for sufficient sleep and undisturbed rest with cats. However, the sleep behavior of dogs varies depending on their life stage and individual factors. Here, you will learn more about the sleep behavior of dogs in different life phases.

How many hours do dogs sleep on average per day?

• Puppies:
  Newborn puppies sleep an impressive 22 hours a day. As they grow older, sleep phases reduce while the puppy explores its surroundings. Until the 16th week, it is crucial for the puppy to rest for about 20 hours a day to ensure healthy development.

• Adolescent Dogs:
  Young dogs aged four months to about two years require 16 to 20 hours of sleep and rest per day. This phase is marked by play activities, curiosity, and an intense physical, hormonal, and mental development where sleep plays a particularly crucial role.

• Adult Dogs:
  Adult dogs sleep and rest an average of 14 to 18 hours a day. It is not uncommon for dogs to need additional sleep after strenuous activities to recover.

• Senior Dogs:
  With advancing age, the sleep needs of dogs increase again, and many older dogs spend between 16 and 20 hours resting. In general, older dogs tend to rest for a significant part of the day, contributing to their overall health.
  

Sleep is of paramount importance for dogs, as it is during this phase that both physical and mental development and recovery take place. Therefore, they should not be disturbed during sleep. Respecting their periods of rest is crucial to promote their well-being and health.

Get into the habit of spending time with your dog during the day and shortly before bedtime to fulfill their needs for activity and attention. By paying attention to age-specific requirements, you contribute to your four-legged friend developing a healthy and balanced sleep pattern.