Our dogs sleep a lot—often between 12 to 14 hours a day, and even more for puppies or senior dogs. But beyond just being adorable, your dog’s sleeping habits can reveal valuable insights into their overall health and wellbeing. Changes in how, when, or where your dog sleeps might be early signs of physical discomfort, anxiety, or illness.
It’s also worth paying attention to the comfort of their sleeping space. Clean, supportive bedding and quality dog bed covers can improve their rest and reduce issues like skin irritation or joint pain. But beyond where they sleep, how they sleep matters just as much. Let’s break down some common dog sleeping habits and what they could be telling you.
1. Sleeping More Than Usual
While dogs do sleep a lot by nature, if you notice a sudden increase in how much your dog is napping or a lack of energy during waking hours, it might be worth looking closer. Excessive sleep can be a sign of:
- Underlying illness such as hypothyroidism or diabetes
- Depression or boredom, especially if there have been changes in their environment
- Pain or discomfort that causes them to rest more and move less
Make note of how often your dog is sleeping, and whether they still seem alert and playful when they are awake. If there’s a marked change, a vet check-up is a good idea.
2. Sleeping Less or Restlessly
On the flip side, if your dog is suddenly struggling to sleep or seems restless at night, this can point to stress, discomfort, or even cognitive issues, especially in older dogs. Common causes include:
- Arthritis or joint pain making it hard to get comfortable
- Separation anxiety or new sources of stress
- Canine cognitive dysfunction (doggy dementia) in seniors
You might notice your dog shifting around, getting up and down frequently, or vocalising in their sleep. Making their bed more supportive or changing their sleeping area to a quieter part of the house may help. But if issues persist, speak with your vet.
3. Sleeping in Odd Positions
The way your dog sleeps can offer clues about how they’re feeling. Here are a few positions to watch for:
- Curled up tightly: A sign your dog is cold or trying to protect themselves
- Sprawled out on their side: Usually a sign they feel safe and relaxed
- Sleeping on their back with legs in the air: A sign of comfort and trust, since this is a vulnerable position
- Sleeping hunched or with tension: Could point to pain or discomfort, especially in the abdomen
While every dog has their own preferred sleeping style, sudden changes in posture could suggest they’re trying to compensate for physical discomfort.
The best sleeping position for a dog with IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease) is lying on their side with a firm, orthopedic bed for full spine support. Avoid curled-up positions or overly soft beds, as they can strain the back and worsen discomfort.
4. Frequently Changing Sleeping Spots
If your dog is constantly moving from one sleeping spot to another, they may be too hot, too cold, or simply uncomfortable. Make sure their bed is in a well-ventilated, quiet area away from foot traffic or loud noises. Check that their bed is clean, with supportive cushioning and breathable fabrics.
Washing their bedding regularly (including dog bed covers) can also help with allergies and skin irritation, which may cause restlessness.
5. Snoring or Laboured Breathing
While some dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds like pugs or bulldogs, are natural snorers, excessive snoring or wheezing can be a sign of breathing problems. Obesity, allergies, or issues with the airways can all contribute to disrupted sleep.
If your dog’s snoring seems new or worsens over time, it’s worth having them checked for possible respiratory concerns.
Paying attention to your dog’s sleeping habits can provide subtle but important clues about their health. As with many aspects of dog care, consistency is key—know your dog’s normal routines so you can quickly spot when something’s off. A comfortable environment, regular vet check-ups, and a bit of observation go a long way in keeping your furry friend healthy and well-rested.
