Dog Care
How Many Hours Do Dogs Sleep a Day? Puppies, Adults and Senior Dogs
Quick answer: Most adult dogs sleep about 12–14 hours a day. Puppies need much more — often 18–20 hours — and senior dogs typically sleep more than younger adults. Large breeds, less active dogs and dogs with quieter days may sleep toward the higher end. A sudden change in sleep, especially with other changes, is worth checking with your vet.
If your dog seems to spend most of the day asleep, that’s usually exactly what a healthy dog does. Here’s what to expect at each age.
Dog sleep by age
| Life stage | Typical sleep per 24 hours | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Puppies | About 18–20 hours (Hill’s gives 15–20) | AKC; Hill’s |
| Adult dogs | About 12–14 hours | Hill’s |
| Senior dogs | Usually more than younger adults | Hill’s |
Hill’s Pet Nutrition notes that if your adult dog generally sleeps 12–14 hours a day, you likely have nothing to worry about — but sleeping more than about 15 hours alongside lethargy or seeming “disconnected” is worth discussing with your vet.
Why do dogs sleep so much?
Dogs sleep in shorter cycles
Dogs don’t sleep in one long block the way many people do. They nap on and off through the day and night, and wake easily to sounds around them.
Puppies are growing
The AKC explains that the large amount of sleep puppies need supports the development of their brain, nervous system, immune system and muscles. Over-tired puppies often become nippy and wild — a nap usually fixes it.
Breed, size and lifestyle
Some large and giant breeds are famous nappers. Working dogs with busy days may sleep deeply in the evening. Dogs left with little to do may sleep more simply because nothing is happening.
Age
Senior dogs tire more easily and take longer to recover after activity. Gentle exercise and comfortable bedding help. Our senior dog bucket list has low-energy ideas.
Sleep positions and what they suggest
- Curled in a ball: keeping warm, feeling secure.
- On the side: relaxed and comfortable.
- Belly up: very relaxed and feeling safe.
- “Superman” sprawl: napping but ready to jump up.
- Twitching and paddling: common during deeper sleep phases. Let them be.
Is my dog sleeping too much?
Compare with your dog’s normal, not with other dogs. A gradual increase with age is expected. A sudden change is different.
Talk to your veterinarian if extra sleep comes with:
- eating less, or drinking and urinating much more (Hill’s notes these can be linked to conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease)
- reluctance to walk, play, use stairs or jump
- weight changes
- vomiting, diarrhea or coughing
- seeming confused, withdrawn or “not themselves”
- breathing changes or snoring that’s new
Low energy can also be about mood or boredom. See why is my dog sad? and is my dog bored?
How to help your dog sleep well
- Exercise and sniffing every day. A tired body and a satisfied brain sleep best. See how often to walk your dog.
- A consistent bedtime routine: last toilet trip, calm settle, lights down.
- A comfortable bed in a quiet spot, with a supportive mattress for older dogs.
- Protect puppy naps. Short, regular naps in a crate or pen prevent overtiredness.
- Avoid big play sessions right before bed.
FAQ
Do dogs sleep through the night?
Most adult dogs sleep for much of the night but wake briefly. Puppies usually need night-time toilet trips at first.
Should I let my dog sleep in my bed?
It’s a personal choice. Many people and dogs enjoy it. If your dog guards the bed or disturbs your sleep, a dog bed nearby is a good compromise.
Do dogs dream?
Dogs show twitching, paddling and small vocal sounds during sleep that are widely interpreted as dreaming. Let a dreaming dog wake naturally.
How much do senior dogs sleep?
Usually more than younger adults. If the change is sudden, or comes with pain or confusion, see your vet.
Related reading
- How many hours do cats sleep?
- How to tell if your dog is happy
- Your puppy’s first year, month by month
Sources
- Hill’s Pet Nutrition — How Much Should My Dog Sleep Per Day?
- American Kennel Club — How Much Do Puppies Sleep?
