How Many Hours a Day Does a Dog Really Sleep?

Dogs have a different sleep pattern from people. They sleep in shorter stretches throughout the day and night, spending most of that time in light sleep, from which they can wake instantly.

Typical sleep times A healthy adult dog sleeps for 12 to 14 hours a day. A puppy under six months may sleep for 18 to 20 hours, while senior dogs over eight often return to 16 to 18 hours. Large breeds generally sleep more than small ones.

Stages of sleep Around 10 to 12 percent of a dog's sleep is REM sleep, during which they may twitch their paws, whimper or move their eyes. This is perfectly normal, and there is no need to wake them. It is during REM sleep that dogs process what they have learnt throughout the day.

Why uninterrupted rest matters A dog that cannot reach deep sleep may become irritable, find learning more difficult and struggle to cope with stimulation. The most common cause is not noise, but an unsuitable place to sleep — such as a busy thoroughfare, a hard floor or a bed in a brightly lit spot.

When to seek advice A sudden change of several hours a day, restlessness at night, laboured breathing during sleep or difficulty finding a comfortable position may indicate pain or a breathing problem. In these cases, it is worth consulting your vet.