Quick Answer: Dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours per day on average, though puppies and senior dogs can sleep 18 to 20 hours. Sleep needs vary significantly by breed, age, and activity level. Unlike humans, dogs cycle through sleep stages faster and more frequently, entering REM sleep in short bursts throughout the day and night.
In This Guide
Reading Time: 12 minutes
Watch a dog through the course of a day and the amount of time spent sleeping is striking. Your dog naps on the couch, dozes in a patch of sunlight, catches a few minutes of sleep while you work, and then seems genuinely surprised to be woken for a walk. It can feel like they are sleeping constantly. In many cases, they are.
Understanding dogs sleeping patterns helps you know what is normal, what might signal a health concern, and how to support good sleep for your pet. It also offers some interesting parallels to human sleep science, which is something we think about a lot at Mattress Miracle.
How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?
The average adult dog sleeps between 12 and 14 hours in a 24-hour period. That is roughly double what most adult humans need. But unlike humans, dogs do not consolidate their sleep into one long stretch. They are polyphasic sleepers, meaning they sleep in multiple shorter periods throughout the day and night.
| Life Stage | Average Daily Sleep | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puppies (under 6 months) | 18 to 20 hours | Sleep supports rapid growth and brain development |
| Adult dogs (1 to 7 years) | 12 to 14 hours | Varies by breed, size, and activity level |
| Senior dogs (7+ years) | 16 to 18 hours | Increased sleep as metabolism and activity slow |
| Working dogs | 10 to 12 hours | High activity during work hours reduces daytime napping |
These figures are averages. A border collie on a farm who herds sheep daily will likely sleep less than a basset hound in a quiet apartment. Environment, activity, diet, and health status all influence how much any individual dog sleeps.
Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much?
Part of the answer lies in how dogs evolved. As descendants of wolves, dogs are adapted to periods of intense activity (hunting, running) followed by long rest periods. Even well-fed domestic dogs retain this biological baseline. Another factor is that dogs spend far less of their sleep in the deep, restorative slow-wave sleep stage compared to humans, so they need more total hours to achieve adequate restoration.
Dog Sleep Efficiency vs. Human Sleep Efficiency
Humans typically achieve around 75 to 80 percent sleep efficiency during a night's rest, spending significant time in slow-wave deep sleep and REM. Research on canine sleep using EEG (electroencephalography) shows dogs spend roughly 10 to 12 percent of sleep time in REM compared to 20 to 25 percent for humans. This lower REM density means dogs need more total sleep to achieve equivalent restoration. A study published in Scientific Reports (2017) measuring dog brain activity during sleep confirmed dogs show clear slow-wave and REM sleep phases similar in structure to mammalian sleep broadly.
8 min read
Dog Sleep Stages: What Happens While They Snooze
Dogs cycle through sleep stages similarly to humans, though on a much shorter timeline. Where humans complete one sleep cycle in roughly 90 minutes, dogs complete a cycle in approximately 20 to 45 minutes. This means a dog sleeping for 12 hours cycles through many more sleep stages than a human sleeping 8 hours.
Stage 1: Light Drowsiness
Dogs enter sleep through a light drowsiness phase. This is when you see a dog's eyes grow heavy, their head nods, and they settle into their spot. During this stage, dogs are easily woken and remain aware of their surroundings. Many dogs remain in this light phase during daytime naps, which is why they can seem to snap awake instantly when they hear something interesting.
Stage 2: Slow-Wave Sleep (SWS)
In slow-wave sleep, brain activity slows significantly. Muscles relax, breathing becomes regular, and heart rate decreases. This is where physical restoration happens: tissue repair, immune function, and growth hormone release occur during SWS. Puppies spend proportionally more time in SWS because their bodies are growing rapidly.
REM Sleep: The Dream Stage
REM (rapid eye movement) sleep is where dreaming occurs. In dogs, this stage is visible. You will see eye movements beneath closed lids, twitching paws, soft whimpers or vocalisations, and sometimes full leg movements as the dog appears to run in place. This is completely normal and indicates active dreaming. Research suggests dogs dream about daily experiences, much as humans process memories during REM sleep.
Should You Wake a Dreaming Dog?
The common wisdom to let sleeping dogs lie has real merit. Waking a dog abruptly from REM sleep can cause a confused, startled reaction. If you need to wake a dreaming dog, speak their name calmly and gently from a little distance before reaching toward them. This reduces the chance of a reflexive snap from a dog still partially in their dream state.
Sleep by Breed and Age
Breed matters considerably when it comes to how much a dog sleeps. Larger breeds consistently sleep more than smaller breeds. Brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) may have disrupted sleep due to breathing issues. Working and herding breeds are naturally more alert and active and may sleep less.
| Breed Category | Examples | Typical Daily Sleep | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large/giant breeds | Saint Bernard, Great Dane, Newfoundland | 14 to 18 hours | More sleep needed to support large body mass |
| Working/herding breeds | Border Collie, Siberian Husky, German Shepherd | 10 to 13 hours | High drive, need more mental and physical activity |
| Scent hounds | Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Beagle | 14 to 16 hours | Famous for extended snoozing between activity bursts |
| Toy/companion breeds | Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, Pomeranian | 12 to 14 hours | Similar to average, may nap frequently |
| Brachycephalic breeds | French Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog | 12 to 14 hours (disrupted) | May snore heavily; prone to sleep apnea |
Puppies and Sleep
Puppies sleep more than any other life stage, often 18 to 20 hours per day. This is not laziness. Sleep is when growth hormone is released, neural connections are formed, and the immune system matures. A puppy that is not getting enough sleep will show it through irritability, difficulty focusing during training, and sometimes increased nipping behaviour. Creating a calm, consistent sleep space for a puppy is one of the most important things a new owner can do.
Senior Dogs and Sleep Changes
As dogs age, sleep patterns change. Senior dogs sleep more total hours but may have less restful sleep. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (similar to dementia in humans) can cause senior dogs to sleep more during the day and become restless or confused at night, reversing their normal sleep schedule. If you notice your older dog pacing at night, vocalising, or seeming disoriented after waking, a veterinary check is worth scheduling. These can be signs of cognitive changes that are manageable with the right support.
What Dog Sleep Positions Tell You
Dogs sleep in a range of positions, and while you should not over-interpret every posture, the positions dogs choose often reflect their comfort level, temperature regulation, and sense of security.
Common Dog Sleep Positions and Their Meaning
- The Donut (curled up): Very common, especially in cooler environments. Dogs curl to conserve heat and protect their vital organs. Often a sign the dog is slightly cool or feels a need to be self-contained.
- The Superman (splayed flat on belly): Typically seen in puppies and high-energy dogs. Allows them to spring up quickly. Usually means the dog is only lightly resting, not in deep sleep.
- Side sleeper: A dog sleeping on their side with legs extended is in a relaxed, secure state. Deep sleep and REM are more likely in this position. A sign the dog feels safe in their environment.
- The Back Flopper (on back, legs in air): This is full vulnerability and indicates a very comfortable, secure dog. Also good for cooling, as the belly has less fur. Common in confident, well-adjusted dogs.
- Cuddle position (pressed against you or another pet): Social, pack-bonding behaviour. Dogs who sleep pressed against their humans are drawing on the warmth and security of physical contact.
Signs That Your Dog's Sleep May Be a Problem
Knowing what is normal helps you identify when something is off. Not every change in sleep pattern warrants a vet visit, but some signs do.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
If your dog seems suddenly much sleepier than usual, particularly if accompanied by lethargy even when awake, this can signal hypothyroidism, anaemia, infection, or other health issues. A dog that does not respond to things that normally excite them, such as walks or their food bowl, and seems to be sleeping far more than their usual baseline, should be seen by a vet.
Disrupted Nighttime Sleep
Dogs that pace, whine, seem disoriented at night, or wake repeatedly may be experiencing pain (arthritis is common in older dogs), cognitive dysfunction, or anxiety. Separation anxiety can cause a dog to sleep poorly when their owner is in another room. If your dog is sleeping in your room and the issues only appear when separated, anxiety may be the driver.
Heavy Snoring or Gasping
While some snoring is normal, particularly in flat-faced breeds, loud, laboured breathing during sleep can indicate brachycephalic airway syndrome (in flat-faced breeds) or sleep apnea. If your dog snores loudly, gasps, or seems to stop breathing briefly during sleep, veterinary evaluation is important.
Canine Narcolepsy: A Real Condition
Narcolepsy in dogs is a genuine neurological condition, though rare. It causes sudden episodes of muscle weakness and sleep onset triggered by excitement or strong emotion. Labradors, Dobermans, and Poodles are among the breeds with known genetic predisposition. If your dog collapses suddenly during play or excitement and appears to fall asleep briefly before recovering normally, this is worth discussing with your veterinarian.
How to Help Your Dog Sleep Better
Supporting your dog's sleep quality is genuinely worthwhile. Well-rested dogs are calmer, easier to train, and generally healthier. The principles are not that different from what we know about human sleep hygiene.
Consistent Daily Exercise
Physical activity is the single most effective way to improve a dog's sleep quality. A dog that has had adequate exercise settles faster, sleeps deeper, and wakes less frequently. The right amount varies by breed and age, but as a rough guide, most adult dogs benefit from at least 30 to 60 minutes of brisk walking or active play daily. Working and herding breeds often need significantly more.
A Consistent Bedtime Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. A predictable sequence before bed such as a short walk, a bathroom trip, a quiet settle period, helps signal that sleep time is coming. This reduces nighttime restlessness and helps dogs settle more quickly. Keep the routine calm toward the end: avoid rough play or high excitement in the hour before bed.
A Good Sleep Environment
Dogs sleep better in a comfortable, appropriately cool space with minimal disturbance. Extreme temperatures affect sleep quality in dogs the same way they affect humans. A dog bed with orthopedic support is particularly valuable for older dogs or those with joint issues. Placing the dog bed in a quieter area of the home, away from heavy foot traffic, helps with uninterrupted deep sleep.
Sleep Quality for Brantford Pet Owners
At Mattress Miracle in Brantford, we talk a lot about sleep environments and what disrupts them. One thing that comes up fairly regularly is how a dog sharing the bedroom, or the bed, affects the owner's sleep. If your current mattress situation is not working with your pet household, our team at 441½ West Street can help you think through the options, from the right mattress protector to a mattress that handles movement better. We have been helping Brantford families sleep well since 1997.
Mental Stimulation During the Day
A mentally tired dog sleeps better than a physically tired one. Puzzle feeders, training sessions, sniff walks (walks where the dog leads and sniffs freely), and play that requires problem-solving all contribute to a dog that is genuinely ready to rest at the end of the day. For dogs that sleep poorly despite adequate physical exercise, adding mental enrichment often makes a noticeable difference.
Managing Pain in Older Dogs
If your senior dog is sleeping restlessly or seems uncomfortable when lying down, arthritis or other joint pain may be the cause. A veterinarian can assess this and discuss pain management options. An orthopedic dog bed, a ramp instead of stairs, and a warmer sleeping area can also reduce discomfort and improve sleep quality for older dogs.
If your dog shares your sleeping space and you are finding that their movements or presence is affecting your own sleep quality, it is worth reading our guide on sharing a bed with your dog for practical strategies. And if your current mattress is showing the wear of pet ownership, we are happy to help you find a replacement that holds up better.
Find Your Perfect Mattress at Mattress Miracle
We are a family-owned mattress store in Brantford, helping our community sleep better since 1997. Come try mattresses in person and get honest, no-pressure advice.
441 1/2 West Street, Brantford, Ontario
Call 519-770-0001Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours a day do dogs sleep?
Most adult dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours per day, though this includes both nighttime sleep and daytime naps. Puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours, and senior dogs often sleep 16 to 18 hours as activity levels decline and recovery takes longer. Large and giant breeds consistently sleep more than small breeds.
Do dogs dream when they sleep?
Yes. Research confirms that dogs enter REM sleep, the stage associated with dreaming in mammals. During REM, dogs show visible signs of active dreaming: eye movements under closed lids, twitching legs and paws, soft vocalisations, and sometimes full running motions. The content of dog dreams is believed to relate to daily experiences, similar to how human dreams process memories and emotions.
Is it normal for my dog to sleep all day?
It depends on the dog's breed, age, and activity level. Basset Hounds, Saint Bernards, and senior dogs of any breed commonly sleep 14 to 18 hours without it being a concern. If a dog that is normally active and alert suddenly sleeps significantly more than usual, or if sleep is paired with lethargy, loss of appetite, or other changes, that warrants a veterinary check.
Why does my dog twitch and whimper in their sleep?
This is REM sleep behaviour and is entirely normal. During REM, the brain is highly active while the body is mostly paralysed. In dogs, the paralysis is sometimes incomplete, allowing visible twitching, vocalisation, and movement. Puppies and older dogs tend to show more visible REM activity. There is no need to wake a dreaming dog unless the behaviour seems extreme or is causing distress.
Should I be concerned if my dog sleeps more than usual?
A temporary increase in sleep after increased exercise, stress, or illness is normal. A sustained increase with no obvious cause, particularly when paired with reduced appetite, weight change, or behavioural changes, is worth a veterinary visit. Common medical causes of increased sleepiness in dogs include hypothyroidism, anaemia, diabetes, and heart conditions, all of which are manageable with appropriate treatment.
Sources
- Reicher, V., et al. (2020). Dogs sleep after a complex learning task differently than after a simple task. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 22458. doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-79589-y
- Kis, A., et al. (2017). The interrelated effect of sleep and learning in dogs. Scientific Reports, 7, 41873. doi.org/10.1038/srep41873
- Adams, G.J., & Johnson, K.G. (1994). Sleep-wake cycles and other night-time behaviours of the domestic dog. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 36(2-3), 233-248. doi.org/10.1016/0168-1591(93)90013-F
- Patel, S.I., et al. (2017). The Effect of Dogs on Human Sleep in the Home Sleep Environment. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 92(9), 1368-1372. doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2017.06.014
- Coren, S. (2012). Do Dogs Dream? Nearly Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know. W.W. Norton & Company.
- Notari, L., et al. (2019). Factors associated with sleep-related problems in companion dogs. Animals, 9(11), 980. doi.org/10.3390/ani9110980
Visit Our Brantford Showroom
We are located at 441½ West Street in downtown Brantford. Free parking available. Our team does not work on commission, so you get honest advice based on your needs.
Mattress Miracle, 441½ West Street, Brantford, ON, (519) 770-0001
Hours: Monday–Wednesday 10am–6pm, Thursday–Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday 12pm–4pm.
If your dog shares your bedroom and you are finding that their movements affect your rest, come in and talk to us. The right mattress and protector setup can make a real difference for both of you.
Shop This Topic at Mattress Miracle
Popular picks at Mattress Miracle:
- Restonic ComfortCare Dalton & Albany pocketed-coil mattress
- Whitney double-sided bamboo mattress
- Somnia 3.0 neck support pillow
Or browse the mattress collection in our Brantford showroom.