This article was approved by Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
If you’ve recently welcomed a new puppy into your home, you may have noticed just how much of their day is spent napping. It might even seem like your puppy is snoozing more than they should.
Just like human babies, young puppies need a lot of sleep to support their rapid growth and development.
Let’s take a look at why young dogs catch so many Zzzs.
How much do dogs sleep?
Puppies typically require 16 to 20 hours of sleep a day, whereas adult dogs tend to need around 14 hours. While adult dogs usually settle into a nighttime sleep routine with a few naps throughout the day, puppies sleep in shorter bursts. They often nap multiple times during the day, waking up to eat, play, and do their business before dozing off again.
Puppies require more sleep than adult dogs because their bodies are rapidly growing, and they need extra rest to support their physical and mental development. This increased need for sleep helps their muscles, bones, and immune systems grow strong, and aids in learning and processing new experiences.
Why do puppies sleep so much?
It’s normal for puppies to sleep a lot, especially compared to adult dogs. Here are some of the main reasons:
Growth and development
Puppies are in a stage of rapid growth that demands a lot of energy. Sleep supports the development of their nervous system, brain, and muscles. This period of rest is crucial for a healthy puppy.
Energy restoration
Puppies burn a lot of energy exploring their world. Whether it’s playtime or learning new commands, all this activity requires recovery time, much like human babies need naps.
Immune system development
During sleep, puppies’ immune systems develop, helping them fight off infections. Quality rest is essential for maintaining a puppy’s health and preventing potential health issues.
Mental development
A significant part of sleep involves REM (Rapid Eye Movement) cycles, during which puppies process new experiences and learn from them. This is vital for cognitive development.
Breed and size factors
Some breeds naturally require more sleep than others due to their genetic makeup and energy levels. Larger breeds, in particular, tend to need more rest than smaller ones.
What if my puppy isn’t sleeping enough?
Creating a comfortable environment and routine can significantly impact your puppy’s sleeping habits. Here are some tips to help your puppy achieve a healthy sleep schedule:
- Establish a bedtime routine: Consistency is key. Set up a nightly routine that includes a last-minute potty break, calming activities, and a designated bedtime to signal to your puppy that it’s time to wind down.
- Designate a sleep area: Choose a quiet, peaceful spot for your puppy to rest. Whether it’s a cozy dog bed or crate training with a soft blanket, make sure it’s a place where your puppy feels secure and undisturbed.
- Monitor activity levels: Keep an eye on your puppy’s activity level during the day. They should have enough exercise to be tired by night, but not so much that they become overtired, which can lead to difficulty sleeping.
- Provide mental stimulation: Enrich your puppy’s day with engaging toys and playdates to keep their mind sharp. This not only helps with mental development but also ensures they are ready for a good sleep when the time comes.
How can I tell if my puppy is sleeping too much and when to see a vet?
It can be tricky to gauge what’s “too much” sleep for a puppy since they naturally need plenty of rest. However, here are some signs that might indicate your puppy is sleeping excessively:
- Low energy and lethargy during awake hours: Puppies typically have bursts of energy when awake. If your puppy seems unusually tired or isn’t active and playful during awake hours, it could be a red flag.
- Difficulty waking up or slow response: Puppies should be alert and responsive when awake. If they are hard to rouse or appear groggy, this could be a sign of a health issue.
- Inadequate nutrition: If your puppy isn’t getting the right nutrition, they may be excessively tired. Knowing how much to feed your puppy is key to supporting their energy needs.
Puppies are usually tired after eating, but if they’re not eating every six to eight hours, they might be fatigued from malnourishment or hypoglycemia. It’s important to consult your vet about their dietary needs.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Before we go…
Having a healthy sleep schedule is essential for your puppy’s growth and development, helping them become healthy adult dogs. But caring for a puppy doesn’t stop there. Pet insurance can be a vital component in safeguarding your pet’s health throughout their life. With pet insurance, you can ensure your furry friend is covered for unexpected health issues keeping your puppy happy and healthy. Get your free quote today and see how Lemonade can help you provide the best care for your pup.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
