🐕🦺 Ever wonder why your dog can nap like it’s their paid, full-time job? Dogs actually need a lot more sleep than humans—and it’s not just because they’re lazy (we promise). It plays a major role in their mood, immunity, and overall wellness. Whether your pup is a high-energy doodle or a couch-potato cutie, understanding their patterns can help you spot issues early. Most adult dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours every day. Puppies, large breeds, and senior dogs require even longer—up to 20 hours in some cases. Dogs sleep more than humans because their cycles are shorter and lighter, so they need extra hours to fully recharge. Regular sleep supports their energy levels, behavior, and immune system.
🐶 How Much Sleep Do Dogs Really Need?
“Dogs can sleep 12 to 14 hours a day, depending on the age of the dog and of course on how much physical activity they get during the day.” — Dr. Stephanie Borns-Weil, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine American Kennel Club. On average, adult dogs need 12–14 hours of sleep per day. Puppies can snooze up to 20 hours—growing up, as we all know, is hard work! Senior dogs also need extra rest as their bodies recover more slowly.
Just like humans, good rest helps dogs restore energy, repair tissue, and support brain function. When they’re well-rested, they’re happier, calmer, and more playful, just like you tired human!
😴 Why Dogs Sleep So Much
Dogs’ sleep cycles differ from ours—they spend less time in deep REM sleep and more in light sleep . This means they need more total hours of sleep to feel fully recharged.
Common reasons your dog sleeps a lot:
- 🐕 Breed & size – Larger breeds need more sleep.
- 🐾 Age – Puppies and seniors nap more.
- ⚽ Activity level – A long hike, an outing or event = major post-adventure nap.
- 🌧️ Boredom or weather – Rainy day? That’s dog and human -for-“Netflix and chill.”
⚠️ When to Worry About Too Much (or Too Little) Sleep
It’s normal for dogs to nap frequently, but sudden changes in sleep habits can be a red flag. Contact your vet if you notice:
- Sleeping excessively or seeming “out of it”
- Restlessness during the day and at night
- Whining, pacing, or panting before bed
- Difficulty settling down or waking frequently
These may signal anxiety, discomfort, or health issues that need professional attention.
🌙 Creating a Calming Sleep Routine
Just like us, dogs thrive on consistency. Here’s how to help them drift into dreamland:
- 🕐 Set a schedule: Regular feeding, play, and bedtime routines help their internal clock.
- 🛏️ Make it cozy: A quiet, dim space with a comfy bed helps signal “rest time.”
- 🎾 Burn off energy: Physical activity and mental stimulation during the day lead to better nighttime rest.
- 🌿 Soothe their mind: If your pup tends to be restless or anxious, a natural calming supplement can make a world of difference.
💚 How Chill Dood Helps Dogs Sleep Better
At NutraDoodle, we know that a calm dog is a well-rested dog. Chill Dood—our gentle, natural, peanut butter flavor calming chew—supports relaxation and balanced mood with ingredients like L-Theanine, L-Tryptophan, Ashwagandha, Valerian Root, Ginger Root, and Chamomile. Many pet parents use it to help their pups settle down during the day, and in the evening. It also allows peacefully sleep through the night without grogginess. “Calming supplements can help slow down your animal’s chaotic thoughts, allowing him to relax and follow your commands.” — Dr. Robert J. Silver, DVM, MS, CVA Animal Wellness Magazine.
Because of it's peanut butter flavor, it tastes like a treat (not medicine). Your dog will actually want to take it. 🐾
👉 Shop Chill Dood Calming Chews: https://nutradoodle.com/products/chill-dood-soft-chew
💭 Final Thoughts
Sleep is one of the simplest (and most important) ways to support your dog’s wellness. By creating a consistent, stable routine, offering daily mind enrichment, and giving them the right nutritional support, you can help your dog live a happier, calmer, and better-rested life.