Sleep isn’t just a break from the day: for dogs, it’s an essential pillar of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When our four-legged friend curls up in his bed and closes his eyes, he begins a regenerative process that affects every aspect of his life, from immune health to stress management.
How much do dogs sleep?
It depends. Puppies and older dogs can sleep up to 18-20 hours a day, while a healthy adult dog sleeps between 12 and 14 hours a day. Some lazy breeds, such as bulldogs, naturally tend to nap for extended periods, while other, more active or working breeds remain alert for longer periods.
The point is that sleep for dogs does not follow a continuous cycle like that of humans: it is made up of short phases distributed throughout the day and night. And each phase has a specific function.
Sleep Phases: Not Just Rest
Although shorter than ours, canine sleep stages include:
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NREM (Non-REM) phase : the body relaxes, the heart rate slows and physical regeneration begins.
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REM phase : the one of dreams. The brain processes information and strengthens memory. This is when we often see paws moving, or hear a little whine: the dog is dreaming.
REM sleep is particularly important for emotional balance and the ability to learn, and is also why a puppy who has learned a command during the day is able to remember it better after a good night's sleep.
Why is it so important to sleep well?
As with us, disturbed or insufficient sleep can cause problems in dogs. Some signs of unrestful sleep are:
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Nervousness and overreactions
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Apathy or chronic fatigue
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Poor appetite
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Reduced ability to concentrate or learn
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Tendency to get sick more easily
A dog that sleeps well is happier, calmer and more predisposed to a positive relationship with its environment and its family.
What makes a dog's rest truly quality?
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A place of his own : a comfortable, stable kennel, positioned in a quiet spot in the house, is essential. Dogs need a safe nest where they can feel protected.
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Routine and regular schedules : Dogs love predictability. Going to sleep at more or less the same time helps them relax and recover better.
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Daily movement : A good amount of walking and play throughout the day promotes deeper sleep.
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Silence and darkness : especially at night, reducing sources of noise and light helps the dog enter a phase of complete rest.
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Orthopedic beds or cool mattresses : depending on the season or size, choosing the right support can make a big difference in the quality of your rest.
And dreams?
Yes, dogs dream. Numerous neurological studies confirm this. Puppies dream more because they are learning so much about the world and need to process it. But even adult dogs relive everyday situations: a run in the meadow, a moment with their human, a much-desired cookie.
Sleep is an act of love
When our dog falls asleep next to us, he is saying: “I feel safe”. Offering him a peaceful rest is not only a matter of health: it is a way to strengthen the bond. A daily gesture that says: “I care about you. Sleep well.”
