The breeds that sleep the longest generally average about 12 to 14 hours per day, though puppies and senior dogs may sleep much more, sometimes up to 18 or even 20 hours daily.
Factors Influencing Canine Sleep Duration
Dogs sleep a lot. Most dogs snooze for about half the day. But how much they sleep changes based on many things. Age is a big factor. Young pups need lots of sleep to grow. Old dogs need rest to keep their bodies working well.
Age and Sleep Needs
Puppies are growing fast. They need energy for all that growing. New puppies might sleep 18 to 20 hours a day. This sleep is very deep. It helps their brains and bodies develop.
Older dogs also slow down. They might not have as much energy. Senior dogs often sleep 14 to 16 hours. They spend more time resting.
Activity Level and Sleep Patterns
A dog’s daily fun greatly affects rest time. High-energy dogs play hard. They need long naps to recover. A Border Collie might run all morning. Then, it will need a long nap to recharge.
Low-energy dogs don’t use up as much fuel. They naturally need less deep sleep. This helps us figure out dog breed energy levels.
Health and Environment
Sickness can make a dog tired. If a dog feels bad, it sleeps more. Also, where a dog lives matters. A quiet, calm home is great for rest. A busy, noisy house might cause shorter naps.
Deciphering Breed Differences in Dog Sleep
Not all dogs rest the same amount. Some breeds are famous for being couch potatoes. Others are always on the move. We can see clear patterns when we look at different groups.
Giant Breeds: The Longest Sleepers
Big dogs often need the most rest. Carrying around a large body takes effort. Giant breeds usually fall into the category of longest sleeping dogs.
Great Danes
Great Danes are gentle giants. They love to relax. They can easily sleep 14 to 16 hours a day. They are often seen stretched out on the floor. They are great examples of breeds that nap frequently.
Saint Bernards
These massive dogs were bred for rescue work. But now, they enjoy a peaceful life. Saint Bernards are slow-movers. They spend a large part of the day snoozing away. They fit well in the best lazy dog breeds list.
Mastiffs
Mastiffs are huge and calm. They are not known for boundless energy. A Mastiff nap can last for hours. They are truly among the what dogs sleep the longest group.
Working and Herding Breeds: Active Nappers
Breeds that were made to work hard need a lot of sleep too. They run and think all day long. They must recover from their busy minds and bodies.
Basset Hounds
Basset Hounds look sleepy all the time! They have heavy bodies and low energy when awake. They are masters of the midday snooze. They are a perfect example of a dog breed low activity when resting.
Bulldogs (English and French)
Bulldogs are short and sturdy. They get tired easily, especially in warm weather. They need many short naps throughout the day. They are very popular restful dog breeds.
Toy and Companion Breeds
Small dogs can be very energetic in short bursts. But they also love to cuddle up close. Lap dogs need their owners nearby for comfort, often while sleeping.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus were bred to be companions. They enjoy sitting on laps. They are happy to sleep whenever you are. They are not high-intensity dogs.
Pugs
Pugs are sweet and funny. But they are not marathon runners. Pugs get tired fast. They often sleep right after a short walk.
How Much Sleep is Normal? How Much Do Different Dogs Sleep?
It is important to know what a normal sleep schedule looks like. This helps owners spot issues if their dog suddenly changes habits.
| Dog Age Group | Average Daily Sleep (Hours) | Key Sleep Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Puppies (Under 6 months) | 18 – 20+ | Growth and Development |
| Adults (1 – 7 years) | 12 – 14 | Rest and Recovery |
| Seniors (8+ years) | 14 – 16 | Conserving Energy |
Most adult dogs are light sleepers. They sleep lightly so they can hear danger. They wake up quickly if they hear a noise.
Deep Sleep vs. Light Sleep
Dogs cycle through sleep stages. They have REM sleep, just like people. This is when they might twitch or dream. They also spend time in non-REM sleep. This is lighter rest.
If a dog sleeps for 14 hours, much of that is light rest. They are still alert to their surroundings.
Why Some Dog Breed Low Activity Breeds Sleep More
Some breeds are naturally less driven to move. Their original jobs did not require constant running. This results in a very lazy lifestyle today.
The Clumber Spaniel
Clumber Spaniels are large, heavy-coated dogs. They were bred for slow, steady hunting. They are quiet and calm indoors. They prefer lounging over running. This makes them excellent candidates for best lazy dog breeds.
Newfoundlands
Newfoundlands are famous water rescue dogs. They use a lot of energy in the water. But on land, they are surprisingly mellow. Once they are out of the pool, they need serious recovery time. They are built to be powerful, not speedy.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
These dogs live to be lap dogs. They don’t have a job other than loving people. They are happiest when snuggled up. They will sleep where you sleep.
High Energy Dogs Still Need Long Rests
Even dogs with high dog breed energy levels sleep a lot. Think of a Jack Russell Terrier. They can run circles around you all day. But after that intense activity, they crash hard.
They need those long rest periods to fuel their next burst of action. If a high-energy dog doesn’t get enough sleep, they become cranky or destructive.
Spotting Sleep Issues
When should you worry if your dog sleeps too much or too little?
Sleeping Too Much (Lethargy)
If a normally active dog suddenly sleeps much more, check on them. This can mean they are sick. It could be pain, infection, or an issue with their thyroid. Always call your vet if the change is sudden.
Sleeping Too Little
If your dog stops resting when they usually do, this is also a sign. They might be anxious. They could be in pain and uncomfortable when lying down.
Finding the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle
If you want a quiet dog, look at breeds known for napping. If you are active, you need a breed that matches your pace, even if they sleep long hours post-exercise.
Best Fit for Apartment Dwellers
Apartment living works well with restful dog breeds. They don’t need huge yards to burn energy indoors.
- Pekingese: Small, sturdy, and generally low-stamina.
- Greyhounds (Surprisingly!): While sprinters, they are known as “45 mph couch potatoes.” They need short bursts of running, then long naps.
- Maltese: Love human company and soft beds.
Breeds Known for Being Sleepy (Table Summary)
This table highlights several breeds famous for their love of the snooze button. These are often cited as what dogs sleep the longest.
| Breed Name | Typical Adult Sleep Hours | Key Trait Affecting Rest |
|---|---|---|
| Great Dane | 14 – 16 | Large size requires more recovery |
| Basset Hound | 14 – 16 | Low energy, heavy build |
| Bulldog | 12 – 15 | Prone to overheating, low stamina |
| Newfoundland | 14 – 16 | Large build, calm demeanor |
| Shih Tzu | 13 – 15 | Bred solely for companionship |
The Science of Dog Naps
Dogs are masters of the power nap. They do not always need a full 8-hour night’s sleep like humans. They often take many short naps throughout the day. This pattern of rest helps them stay ready for action quickly.
Sleep Cycles in Dogs
A dog’s sleep cycle is faster than ours. They move into REM sleep faster. This is why you see their paws twitching or hear soft barks. These dreams are part of their brain processing the day.
When we look at how much do different dogs sleep, we must remember this quick cycling. They might be dozing lightly for ten minutes, then fully awake in seconds.
Bedding Matters
A comfortable spot encourages better rest. Dogs that are breeds that nap frequently will seek out the softest, quietest places. Providing orthopedic beds for older dogs helps them get deeper, more restful sleep.
Caring for Your Sleepy Companion
If you have one of the longest sleeping dogs, make sure their sleep time is respected. Don’t constantly interrupt them for playtime if they are clearly resting deeply.
Establishing Routine
A routine helps regulate sleep. Dogs thrive on knowing when to eat, play, and rest. A predictable routine helps them settle down at night. This consistency supports healthy canine sleep duration.
Exercise Balance
Even the laziest breeds need some movement. A short, gentle walk prevents muscle stiffness. This light activity can actually improve the quality of their long naps later. For very low-activity dogs, even a few minutes of gentle indoor play can be enough.
Fathoming Sleep Quality Over Quantity
While we list breeds that sleep the most, quality matters more than raw hours. A restless sleeper who spends 16 hours in bed might be less rested than an active dog who sleeps soundly for 13 hours.
When evaluating your dog, watch their wakefulness. Are they alert and happy when awake? Do they respond quickly to your voice? If yes, then their sleep pattern, no matter the length, is likely healthy for them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a dog sleep too much?
Yes, if a dog sleeps much more than usual suddenly, it might mean they are ill or in pain. Always consult a vet if you notice a big change in your dog’s sleep habits.
Do small dogs sleep less than big dogs?
Not always. While some small toy breeds are very energetic, many small or medium companion breeds are champion sleepers. It depends more on the specific breed’s original purpose than just size.
Are puppies always sleepy?
Yes, puppies are extremely sleepy because their brains and bodies are developing rapidly. Their requirement for deep sleep is very high during the first few months of life.
What is REM sleep in dogs?
REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is the stage where dogs dream. You will see their eyes moving quickly under their lids, and they might twitch or make small noises. This is when their brains process the day’s information.
Why does my older dog sleep all day?
As dogs age, their metabolism slows down. They have less stamina. Just like older people, they need more time to rest and recover from even small activities.