Dog Sleeping Habits: What’s Normal and When to Worry

Most dogs sleep an average of 12–14 hours per day, but there’s a wide range of variation among breeds and individual pets. Some dogs prefer snoozing in a crate, while others curl up next to you on the couch. Understanding your dog’s sleeping habits can reveal important clues about their health and well-being.

If your dog suddenly sleeps more or less than usual, it may be a sign of illness, stress, or discomfort.

Normal Sleeping Habits vs. Abnormal Sleeping Habits

Normal Patterns: Puppies and senior dogs often sleep up to 18 hours a day, while healthy adult dogs average around 12–14 hours. Dogs typically sleep in short bursts of 15–45 minutes, with two main sleep periods — a short morning nap and a longer afternoon or evening nap.

Abnormal Patterns: Signs of trouble can include:

Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep, frequent wake-ups, or restlessness.
Hypersomnia: Sleeping significantly more than usual, sometimes with loud or labored breathing.
Sleep Disorders: Conditions like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, or disrupted circadian rhythms caused by obesity, arthritis, kidney disease, or stress.

When to Call the Vet

Changes in your dog’s sleep can signal underlying medical or emotional issues, including separation anxiety, pain, or new stressors at home (such as new pets or household changes). Schedule a veterinary checkup if your dog’s sleep patterns, energy levels, or breathing change noticeably.

Helping Your Dog Sleep Better

Keep a Consistent Routine: Dogs thrive on regular feeding, exercise, and sleep schedules.
Provide a Comfortable Sleeping Area: A quiet, cozy bed can make a huge difference.
Support Joint Health: For older dogs, supplements like Hemp Well Hip & Joint Chews can reduce pain that disrupts sleep.
Address Anxiety: If stress keeps your dog awake, try Hemp Well Calm Dog Soft Chews for natural relaxation.

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