Everything You Need to Know About Dogs’ Sleeping Habits

We all envy our dogs when they get to sleep whenever they want, for however long they want, while we, hoomans, are stuck in errands, meetings, and what not. 

It’s not unusual for a dog parent to observe their fur baby’s sleeping habits. Let’s discuss some very common questions related to this. 

Before we go any further, you should note that if you notice abnormal sleeping habits of your dog, your vet is the most suitable person to consult immediately. 

1. How long should puppies sleep each day?

While puppies are more like energy-packed bundles, they can sleep quite long. Normally, puppies should get about 18-20 hours of sleep a day. Aren’t you jealous now? I am. 

While such sleep timings may sound a lot, they are you pup’s requirement because when they are awake, they are exploring, learning, developing, and growing. That tired them out and drains their energy. Sleep is vital for their physical and psychological development. 

Your pup probably wouldn’t understand their internal clock; hence they might be new to the concept of days and nights. Hence, it’s nothing to worry about if your furry ball of energy is active one minute and dosing of the next minute. 

• Tips to Help Puppies Get Enough Sleep

Here’s what you can do to make sure your pup’s getting enough sleep;

For daytime sleeping:

• Don’t disturb your puppy when they are asleep. We all know how hard it is to not snuggle with those cutie pies, but it’s important that they sleep independently.  
• Provide them with a dedicated sleeping place, maybe a soft pup bed, or a crate.
• Keep a schedule so their nap times are scheduled after different activities like feeding, walks, training sessions, and bathroom trips. 

For nighttime sleeping:

• Put soft blankets and their favorite toys in their sleeping place, so they are attracted towards it. You can also offer them a treat if they come in their sleeping bed/crate.  
• Observe a bedtime routine so your fur baby knows when it’s nighttime, it’s sleep time. 
• Be patient and persistent. Your pup might test you by barking, howling, or crying in the first few weeks of sleep training. While your heart will probably be melting and you would just want to give in and snuggle with your pup, stay strong. A proper routine will help them in getting good sleep.

2. How long should dogs sleep each day?

Unlike puppies, adult dogs usually need 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day. 

Some factors to keep in mind are: 

• Older adult dogs will need more sleep than younger adult dogs. 
• Working dogs or active dogs will sleep less during the day. 
• Larger breeds are known to sleep more than smaller or medium breeds. 

Unless your dog’s sleeping patterns change suddenly and dramatically, there’s no need to worry.  

3. Why do dogs walk in circles before they lay down to sleep?

It’s quite puzzling when dogs start going in circles when they are about to lay down. There are different theories to explain this behavior. Some people establish that dogs do this to fully check their surroundings before laying down. They are also said to leave their paws’ scent as markers of their territory. 

Study tests have shown that dogs basically take the circles to make sure their sleeping spot and its surrounding are comfortable. 

4. Why do dogs try to “Fluff” up their beds before they sleep?

If you are amused by your dog fluff up their bed by pawing and digging at them, here’s why they do it. 

Firstly, they want to make a comfy spot to lay down. Secondly, they dig at the surface to find a cooler layer underneath. 

However, if your furiend is fluffing excessively, try lowering the room temperature or replacing their bedding with a lighter material. 

5. Why do dogs bark and twitch in their sleep?

Have you ever seen your dog sleeping peacefully, but then all of a sudden, they start twitching and barking? If you nodded your head, here’s why this happens. 

These movements are known as myoclonic twitches are not exclusive for dogs. These occur in most animals, specially while sleeping. These might be more common in puppies or older dogs because their brains are not efficient in communicating with muscle groups.   

These twitches have been linked to dreams. A study found that animals can have complex dreams, and they can recall events while they sleep. 

Hence, your dog may whine and twitch more when they are having a nightmare. Avoid waking your dog up while they are showing signs of seeing a dream, because that could disorient them, scare them, and make them bite. 

You should note that excessive twitching or kicking, stiff limbs, urination or defecating during twitching, drooling and panting upon waking up, are serious signs and could indicate a seizure. You should contact your vet right away if you notice any such behavior.