How Much Should Dogs Sleep Per Day?

Nov 10

If it feels like your dog spends most of the day napping, you’re not wrong. Dogs love their sleep — and for good reason. Sleep helps them recharge, supports healthy brain function, and keeps their mood balanced. But how much shut-eye do they really need each day?

Let’s break it down by age, lifestyle, and breed to help you understand what’s normal — and when it might be time to check in with your vet.

Average Sleep Needs by Age

Puppies (0–12 months): 18–20 hours a day
Growing up takes energy! Puppies need lots of rest to support their rapid development, learning, and immune health. It’s totally normal if your puppy seems to nap all the time — especially after play sessions or training.

Adult Dogs (1–7 years): 12–14 hours a day
Most adult dogs sleep about half the day, often in shorter naps scattered throughout. The exact amount depends on their activity level — working dogs or highly active breeds might sleep less, while couch-loving companions might sleep more.

Senior Dogs (7+ years): 14–18 hours a day
As dogs age, they slow down. Senior pups tend to nap longer and may wake more during the night. That extra rest helps their joints recover and supports overall health as their bodies change.

Factors That Affect a Dog’s Sleep

1. Breed
Large breeds like Great Danes, Newfoundlands, and Mastiffs are famous for their love of sleep. Smaller breeds often need less, but all dogs benefit from regular downtime.

2. Activity Level
A dog who hikes, plays fetch, or trains daily will likely sleep more deeply at night. On the flip side, a dog that doesn’t get much exercise might nap out of boredom rather than real fatigue.

3. Environment
Quiet, cozy environments encourage deeper rest. Loud noises or frequent disruptions can lead to restless sleep.

4. Health
Illness, pain, or anxiety can cause your dog to sleep more or less than usual. If you notice sudden changes in their sleep habits, it’s a good idea to call your vet.

What’s Normal — and What’s Not

It’s normal for dogs to nap often, but here are a few signs their sleep patterns might need attention:

They’re suddenly sleeping much more or less than usual.
They seem tired even after a full night’s rest.
They’re restless, pacing, or whining at night.

These could point to issues like pain, anxiety, or underlying medical problems — so it’s worth mentioning to your vet.

How to Help Your Dog Sleep Better

Create a bedtime routine – Dogs love consistency.
Give them plenty of exercise – A tired dog is a happy (and sleepy) dog.
Set up a cozy sleep spot – A supportive dog bed in a quiet area helps them relax.
Avoid big meals right before bed – Too much food late at night can cause restlessness.

The Bottom Line

On average, dogs sleep 12–14 hours per day, with puppies and seniors needing even more. Regular naps and solid nighttime sleep are key to keeping your dog healthy, balanced, and happy.

So, the next time your dog snoozes through your favorite show, don’t worry — they’re just doing what comes naturally.

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