Even though it may surprise you, A dog can sleep 12 to 20 hours a day. Yes, you read that right! But of course, there are a variety of variables that determine how much sleep a dog gets, including its age, activity level, lifestyle, and yes, even personality. Like humans, some dogs are naturally more active and energetic, while others may be calmer and more sedentary.
And like us Seasons of the year affect our friends dog teeth. During the winter months, your dog may prefer to curl up in a warm corner rather than play outside. Summer, on the other hand, due to its heat and humidity, may cause your dog to seek out the coolest parts of the house, waking up frequently to drink water, or simply finding a cooler place to rest.
Journey through the ages: How many hours does a dog sleep by life stage?
- puppy dream: If you’ve ever owned a puppy, you know that it can sleep up to 20 hours a day. This is because their little bodies are constantly growing and developing. Moreover, sleep not only helps their physical development, but also plays a vital role in the development of their memory and learning. However, if your puppy appears to be oversleeping and less active when awake, it is vital to consult a vet.
- adult dogs: As your puppy grows, you will notice that his sleep patterns begin to change. Upon reaching adulthood, a dog usually sleeps between 12 and 14 hours, dividing this time between nighttime sleep and daytime naps.
- old dogs: As with humans, dogs’ sleep patterns will change as they get older. Older dogs tend to sleep around 18 hours or more a day as their bodies need more time to recover and rest.
The science behind how many hours a dog sleeps
Sleep is crucial to a dog’s health and allows them to recover and regain their energy. Just like us, dogs experience different sleep stages:
- light sleep: At this stage your dog is in a mild state of alert. This is the time when they can easily wake up even if they are sleeping.
- deep sleep: This is the stage when your dog is dreaming. You may have noticed that your dog moves or makes noises while sleeping; he’s dreaming! It is important not to wake them up suddenly at this stage as this could scare them.
Understanding how many hours a dog sleeps is crucial to the health and well-being of your furry friend. Just like humans, dogs have their own sleep needs that change throughout their lives. So the next time you see your dog taking a nap, you’ll know he’s refueling for his next adventure with you!