10 Amazing Facts About Dog Sleep

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Dogs are actually asleep almost half of their lives. Amazing fact isn’t it? Just like in humans, sleep plays a vital role in optimizing the health, development and well-being of dogs. Normally, a dog sleeps for 12-14 hours over a span of 24 hours, depending on the breed of dog. However, they don’t sleep continuously, as you have probably noticed. They sleep in many sessions throughout the day, accumulating an average of 12 to 14 hours of sleep everyday. ^[1]

Research shows that the quantity of sleep earned may have a direct effect on the behavior of dogs. It’s interesting to note that pets which are allowed to sleep for more than 14 hours may tend to get depressed. On the other hand, dogs sleeping for less than 12 hours in a day may be hypervigilant or anxious much of the time.

The amount of sleep earned has a direct effect on the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin produced, which in turn can also affect behaviors such as aggression and depression. Studies show that insufficient amount of sleep lowers the level of serotonin released – with the result that depression and anxiety are more likely to occur.

As with humans, sleep enables the dog to refresh and rejuvenate. Research shows that puppies tend to sleep more at night than daytime, most especially when they have company. This is why many experts suggest that puppies must have a sleeping place in their owner’s bedroom, or at least open the door at night for them to smell and hear their owners. Meanwhile, some adult dogs may feel better sleeping with cats and other dogs at night.

One of the factors which may affect dog sleep is temperature. Heavy-coated dogs may experience sleeping difficulties in rooms with high temperatures, while others – especially small dogs – can get cold easily. Therefore, it is important to have a grasp of knowledge on your dog’s physical characteristics and maintain a suitable sleeping environment for them.

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