Why do dogs sleep so much, and when is it too much?

Short answer: dogs sleep a lot, often around half the day or more, and the amount varies from dog to dog. Puppies sleep a great deal too. What matters most is not the number of hours but whether your dog is acting like themselves when awake. If your dog seems different, a quick call to your vet is the next step, and they will tell you whether anything more is needed.

What is normal

Many adult dogs sleep somewhere between 8 and 14 hours a day, and some sleep more. Puppies spend much of their day asleep as well, and it is normal for a dog to nap in the daytime even after a full night. Older dogs often slow down with age. Because every dog is a little different, your own dog's usual pattern is the best guide.

What to do: notice when your dog usually sleeps and how they usually seem afterwards, so you can spot a change.

Signs that a change is worth a call

Instead of counting hours, look at how your dog is when awake. A well-rested dog gets up for the things they love, such as a visitor at the door, the treat bag or dinner. It is worth a call to your vet if your dog:

• is sleeping more than usual, or at different times than usual
• no longer gets up for favourite things like food, play or walks
• seems groggy, slow or flat when awake
• has other changes at the same time, such as eating less, vomiting, coughing or different toilet habits

Low energy has many possible causes, from mild to more serious, which is why your vet is the right person to sort it out.

What to do: write down what you have noticed and since when, then call your vet and describe it. If your vet is closed and you are worried, an emergency vet can help.

Older dogs

Slowing down a little with age is normal. A change in the sleep pattern is worth mentioning, though, such as sleeping more in the day, waking or pacing at night, or seeming stiff or confused. These can be linked to pain or illness, and there is often something your vet can do to help your dog feel better.

What to do: mention any change in sleep to your vet at the next visit, or sooner if it is sudden or comes with other changes.

Helping a healthy dog rest well

All dogs need quiet, comfortable downtime. Give your dog a bed in a calm spot where they can rest undisturbed, and ask everyone in the home, including children, to leave them alone while they are resting.

What to do: set up a quiet bed today and tell the family it is a do-not-disturb spot.

Sources: PDSA, dogs and sleep, low energy in dogs. VCA Animal Hospitals, is your pet sleeping too much, how much sleep puppies need, senior dogs. RSPCA, older dogs, dog beds. Blue Cross, caring for older dogs. ASPCA, behavior problems in older dogs. Dogs Trust, when to take your dog to the vet.

General education only, not veterinary advice or a plan for your individual dog. If you are worried about your dog's sleep or energy, please contact a vet. See our legal page.