How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need? Vet-Approved Guide & Best Dog Beds

Apr 17, 2025
Patria Smith
Bark & Boujee Blog | Go Doggie Style

Dogs sleep up to 20 hours a day, but how restful is their sleep? Learn about canine sleep cycles, breed-specific needs, and how the right dog bed can improve their health.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Really Need? The Science of Canine Rest & the Beds That Support It

Dogs are expert nappers—but how much sleep do they actually need? If you’ve ever wondered whether your pup is sleeping too much (or not enough), you’re not alone. Sleep plays a crucial role in your dog’s health, from immune function to behavior. This article dives deeper than other guides by breaking down sleep cycles, age-specific needs, and the hidden impact of the bed your dog sleeps on.

We'll also explore a detail often overlooked by major publications: the environment your dog sleeps in. It turns out, the quality of a dog’s sleep isn’t just about quantity—it’s about comfort, support, and safety. Let’s uncover what your dog needs to truly rest and why your dog’s bed matters more than you might think.

How Many Hours Do Dogs Need to Sleep?

On average, adult dogs sleep between 12 to 14 hours per day. Puppies, senior dogs, and larger breeds may require even more—up to 18 to 20 hours daily. Here's a quick breakdown:

Puppies (up to 1 year): 18–20 hours/day
Adult dogs: 12–14 hours/day
Senior dogs (7+ years): 14–16 hours/day
Large breeds: Often 16–18 hours/day

Typical Sleep Patterns by Breed

Some breeds are naturally more active and require less sleep, while others are built for rest and relaxation. Here’s how sleep needs break down by common breed:

Labrador Retriever: ~12–14 hours/day
German Shepherd: ~12–14 hours/day
Golden Retriever: ~12–14 hours/day
Bulldog: ~16–18 hours/day
Chihuahua: ~14–16 hours/day
Great Dane: ~16–18 hours/day

Why Dogs Sleep So Much

Unlike humans, dogs don’t experience long, consolidated sleep cycles. Instead, they doze throughout the day, cycling between light and deep sleep. Their bodies are wired for short bursts of activity followed by long periods of rest, which explains why dogs nap so frequently.

Key factors influencing sleep needs:

Age: Puppies and seniors need more recovery time.
Breed: Larger breeds sleep more due to their metabolism and bone structure.
Activity level: Working dogs and highly active dogs burn more energy and sleep to recover.
Diet and health: Poor nutrition, illness, or stress can lead to oversleeping or restlessness.

Understanding Dog Sleep Cycles

Dogs experience two main types of sleep: REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM. Most of their rest consists of non-REM, light sleep. They cycle through these stages every 15–20 minutes. This means that even if your dog is lying down for hours, their sleep may be fragmented unless their environment is peaceful and comfortable.

Because dogs are alert to sounds and smells even in sleep, the surface and location of their bed plays a massive role in how deeply and continuously they rest.

Sleep Quality Matters More Than Quantity

Sure, your dog may sleep for 14 hours—but how restorative is that sleep? Dogs that wake frequently, toss and turn, or avoid their beds may be suffering from discomfort, anxiety, or health problems.

Sleep interruptions in dogs can cause:

Behavioral issues like irritability or hyperactivity
Weakened immune function
Increased risk of joint or muscle strain
Higher susceptibility to anxiety or stress

The Hidden Impact of Your Dog’s Bed

Many pet parents focus on how much their dog sleeps, but few consider where their dog sleeps. Yet, the surface your dog rests on can directly impact joint health, spinal alignment, and overall sleep quality.

Orthopedic and bolstered beds can help ease pressure on joints, especially for senior dogs or breeds prone to hip dysplasia. The ideal bed provides both support and a feeling of safety—especially for anxious dogs or those who need enclosed spaces to rest well.

When choosing a bed, here’s what matters most:

OEKO-TEX Certified Fabrics: Safe from harmful chemicals
Virgin Fill (not recycled): Reduces allergens
Machine washable covers: Keeps the sleep space clean and healthy
YKK zippers & USA-milled materials: A sign of long-lasting quality

Where to Find the Best Beds for Better Dog Sleep

At GoDoggieStyle.com, we’ve tested countless brands and have found that Bowsers Pet Products offers one of the most thoughtful, well-made dog bed lines available. They’re handmade to order using upholstery-grade materials and often last a lifetime.

With a wide selection of styles and sizes—including beds made for dogs up to 160 lbs—Bowsers beds are built for serious sleepers. And while we won’t tell you which bed to pick, our goal is to help your dog sleep better, longer, and healthier. A good bed is the easiest step toward better rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can dogs sleep too much?
Yes—especially if they’re suddenly sleeping more than usual. It can be a sign of underlying health issues such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or depression. Speak to your vet if you're concerned.

Q: What if my dog won’t sleep in their bed?
Check the location and comfort of the bed. If it’s too firm, in a drafty or loud area, or lacks structure, your dog may avoid it. Dogs naturally gravitate toward cozy, enclosed spaces.

Q: Is it normal for puppies to sleep almost all day?
Absolutely. Puppies expend tons of energy during short play sessions and need up to 20 hours of rest daily to grow and develop.

Q: Do dogs need beds even if they sleep on the couch?
Yes. A proper dog bed supports their joints better and keeps shedding and dirt off your furniture. Plus, it gives them their own space to retreat to.

Final Thoughts

Your dog’s sleep isn’t just a nap—it’s how they heal, recharge, and stay healthy. Prioritizing your dog’s rest with a high-quality, non-toxic bed is one of the most meaningful ways to improve their life.

So next time you see your dog snoozing peacefully, know that the right environment—paired with the right bed—makes all the difference.

About the Author

Go Doggie Style is more than just a dog boutique — it’s a passion project by Dr. Patria Smith, a Doctor of Pharmacy, Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Entrepreneur, wife, mother of 4 beautiful children and a proud dog mom. Founded in 2019, our blog blends professional insight, scientific accuracy, and a deep love for dogs to help pet parents give their pups the healthiest, happiest life possible.