How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need? Your Guide to Canine Zzz’s

As the crisp Arkansas air signals back-to-school season and new routines settle in across Natural State homes, you might be noticing a shift in your furry family member’s rhythm. Maybe they’re sleeping more or less than usual. You may be wondering, “How much sleep do dogs need?” And if they’re sleeping, are they getting quality sleep?

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Luckily, your friends at Hounds Lounge Pet Resort and Spa have the answers! We aren’t just about playtime – rest and recovery are a major part of our guests’ routine. Hounds Lounge is a doggy daycare facility with plenty of cozy spots for napping and a luxurious pet hotel for overnight stays, making us experts on how much sleep dogs need.

In this blog, we’ll answer the question: how much sleep do dogs need? Then, we’ll dig into the fascinating world of dog sleep patterns and how Hounds Lounge strikes the pawfect balance between rest and play.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

On average, adult dogs need 12-14 hours of sleep each day – but not all in one stretch. Unlike humans, dogs are “polyphasic sleepers,” which means they nap multiple times throughout the day rather than getting one long block of rest.

Here’s why:

• Dogs are always on alert. Even during rest, dogs are wired to wake up quickly at the sound of a creaking door or a passing squirrel. That constant readiness means they need more total hours of sleep to recharge.

• Dogs have quick REM cycles. Dogs fall into REM sleep faster than humans but stay there for shorter periods. More naps are necessary to reach deep, restorative rest.

So if you’ve caught your pup snoozing in the sun for the fifth time today, don’t worry. This is typical dog behavior! The real question isn’t just “How much sleep do dogs need?” but rather “How much sleep do dogs need based on their age and breed?”

The Sleep Spectrum: How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need Based on Age and Breed?

As you read above, most adult dogs need 12-14 hours of sleep each day. However, activity levels, age and even breed play big roles in how much sleep each individual dog needs.

If your family’s schedule is shifting with the new school year, you may notice your pup adjusting too. Consistency matters – a predictable routine helps keep their rest cycles steady. Knowing the amount of sleep your dog needs per day gives you peace of mind when you notice changes.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need by Age?

Doggy sleep isn’t one-size-fits-all. Just like kids, teens and seniors have different needs, dogs’ sleep requirements evolve over time.

• Puppies: 18-20+ Hours a Day

Growing bodies and brains require lots of rest. Structured naps support a puppy’s development and help prevent overstimulation. That’s right – because they are non-stop furballs of energy, you will probably have to gently force your puppy to take naps. But it doesn’t have to be difficult!

If you’re a new puppy owner, create a cozy space dedicated to sleep – like a kennel or playpen – and stick to a nap schedule. We recommend 1-2 hour naps following meals, potty breaks or play sessions.

• Adult Dogs: 12-14 Hours a Day

The average recommendation is the sweet spot for most healthy adults. A high-energy Beagle might snooze less, while a Bulldog may happily nap all afternoon. Read more about caring for the 10 most popular dog breeds.

• Older Dogs: 14-18+ Hours a Day 

If you have an older dog, you may not be wondering “how much sleep do dogs need?” and are instead thinking “why do dogs sleep so much?” Senior pups have lower energy levels and naturally spend more time sleeping. 

Understanding the amount of sleep dogs need by age helps you tailor routines for your dog’s stage of life.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need by Breed?

Breed influences both energy levels and sleep.

• Large Breeds 

Great Danes and Mastiffs often nap more due to their size. They have a lot of weight to carry around!

• Working Breeds 

Labradors and German Shepherds may nap less when active but crash hard after exercise. Furr example, Arkansas duck dogs will need plenty of sleep following a hunting trip.

• Companion Breeds 

Bulldogs, Greyhounds and Frenchies are world-class nappers. And we wouldn’t have them any other way.

Here in Arkansas, we see everything from Retrievers exploring Fayetteville trails to French Bulldogs curled up in Little Rock apartments. Understanding your specific breed’s natural tendencies is vital to giving them a good life!

How Can You Create the Pawfect Dog Sleep Environment?

The answer to how much sleep do dogs need isn’t just about hours. It’s also about quality, starting with setting the tone for a grrreat night’s – or day’s – sleep.

• Comfort Counts: A supportive dog bed cushions joints and eases rest.
  
• Quiet and Dark: Peaceful environments help dogs relax into deeper sleep.
  
• Consistency: Predictable routines, especially during back-to-school shifts, help regulate rest.

At Hounds Lounge, we know a thing or two about creating the pawfect sleep environment. 

Our private, luxury boarding suites each come with a raised Kuranda dog bed. These chew-resistant beds offer soft, off-the-floor comfort that supports restful, restorative sleep. You can bring in your dog’s favorite blanket or bedding to make their space extra homey!

Before it’s time for lights out, we serve up your dog’s dinner and fresh water in the privacy of their suite. You can even opt to treat them to a bedtime snack: a frozen peanut butter KONG for just $5!

Need help getting your dog to sleep at home? Check out our blog on how to tire out a dog.

How Does Hounds Lounge Support Healthy Sleep?

We design our services to help dogs achieve the right balance of play and rest.

Daycare: The Secret to Better Sleep

A well-exercised dog is a well-rested dog. Our doggy daycare with indoor/outdoor play yards provides the perfect outlet for your woof’s energy. We also understand the need for downtime, offering quiet corners for naps when needed, ensuring dogs don’t get overstimulated. 

Pooches don’t just leave Hounds Lounge tired. They leave with the #HoundsLoungeHangover! Because they play so hard with us, they sleep even harder when they get home. Pet pawrents, rejoice!

Grooming: Comfort from Head to Paw

An often-overlooked factor in sleep quality is physical comfort. Matted fur, itchy skin or overgrown nails can all disrupt a dog’s ability to settle down. Our professional grooming services and our self-serve dog wash ensure your dog is clean, comfortable and feeling their best, paving the way for truly restful sleep.

Boarding: Suite Dreams Away from Home

When you’re away, our boarding facility provides a calm, consistent environment. Our 24/7 on-site staff maintains routines and ensures your dog gets ample exercise followed by comfortable sleep, minimizing stress and promoting pawsitive sleep patterns. Knowing the answer to how much sleep do dogs need – for all types of dogs – helps us customize each woof’s care.

When Should You Worry About Your Dog’s Sleep?

Most dogs’ habits fall within a healthy range, but below are some red flags to look out for:

• Sudden changes in sleep (too much or too little)
  
• Trouble waking up
  
• Restlessness or pacing at night
  
• Extreme lethargy paired with appetite or behavior changes

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian. At Hounds Lounge, our trained team also keeps a close watch and will share any changes we notice, acting as an extra set of eyes for your pup’s well-being.

Need a vet? Reach out to our friends at Healthy Life Pet Clinic, located right next door to the North Little Rock Hounds Lounge.

A Well-Rested Dog is a Happy Dog

So, how much sleep do dogs need? Puppies may require up to 20 hours, adults 12-14 and seniors 14-18. Breed, environment and activity levels all play a part, but the common thread is this: Rest is as essential as play!

At Hounds Lounge, we take a howlistic approach. From energetic play sessions to cozy sleep environments, we ensure every pup gets the right balance of activity and rest. Sweet dreams for your dog mean peace of mind for you! 

Book doggy daycare, boarding or grooming at a Hounds Lounge location closest to you today.