Reviewed by: Dr. David Tittle, BVetMed, CertVA, GPCert (WVA&CPM), MRCVS
Healthy dogs sleep a lot. So often that it’s usually very easy to notice when something has changed. If your dog has gone from taking up the entire couch for most of the day and night to pacing aimlessly at bedtime, something may be amiss.
Insomnia is very rare in dogs, so it must be taken seriously. And even if your dog isn’t experiencing true insomnia, there may be other underlying causes contributing to their sleep disruption.
Here’s what pet parents need to know about recognizing the signs of dog insomnia and helping their pets sleep through the night.
How Often Are Dogs Supposed to Sleep?
Your dog’s sleep requirements will change throughout the stages of their life. In general, dogs need a lot of sleep – much more than humans.
To start, we’ll break down the average amount of sleep dogs typically need across different age ranges. And if your dog is getting significantly less Z’s than what’s normal, there may be something more going on that’s worth a closer look.
Puppies
Puppies can be energetic and feisty when awake, but they’re asleep for most of the day. Because puppies grow so quickly, they need anywhere between 18 and 20 hours of sleep per day.
Adult Dogs
As your dog transitions into adulthood, their sleep will more closely mimic yours, with at least eight hours daily, and potentially as many as 13 (seven to eight hours overnight, plus three to five hours during the day).
Senior Dogs
Senior dogs are not as energetic as they once were, and that’s usually nothing to worry about. It’s natural for a senior dog to sleep just as much as a puppy, snoozing anywhere between 18 and 20 hours a day.
When Do Dogs Sleep?
Unlike nocturnal or strictly diurnal animals, dogs can sleep whenever they feel tired, like after a long play session. Most dogs take their cues from their owners, settling into a schedule that closely matches yours and taking a few naps throughout the day.
How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Getting Enough Sleep?
Though it may be hard to tell whether your dog is getting enough sleep if you aren’t home most of the day, the main indicator to note is their nighttime activity level.
If your dog often wakes you up pacing the house or whining while you’re trying to sleep, this is a concerning sign. Your dog should be taking sleep cues from you, sleeping at least part of the time you’re asleep.
If you’re away from home during the day, consider getting a pet camera to check in on your dog’s daytime habits. If you rarely spot them napping, they may not be getting enough rest.
Is My Dog Getting Enough Stimulation?
Dogs require a great deal of physical and mental stimulation, which plays a significant role in their sleep quality. Dogs need daily exercise, usually twice a day, for burning off excess energy, overall fitness, and to have the opportunity to socialize. Whether you take them to romp around in the dog park, go on long walks, swim, or have adequate time to stretch their legs and play fetch.
Mental stimulation is equally important, with games such as engaging puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, or taking neighborhood walks to sniff everything along the way. Doing so will ensure a balance in their sleep-wake cycle and support overall health and happiness.
What Are Signs My Dog Is Experiencing Insomnia?
It would be a full-time job to count every hour your dog sleeps, but you can make observations based on changes in your dog’s habits and behaviors. Here are a few things to keep an eye on:
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Dogs tend to fall into patterns and routines. Puppies will change their routines as they grow into adult dogs, which is perfectly normal.
However, if your adult dog almost always takes a nap at the same time every day and suddenly stops without any change in their environment or routine, that’s worth paying attention to. Similarly with their nighttime sleep patterns.
Changes in Temperament
Similar to how a tired person might feel, dogs who don’t sleep well may withdraw, seem less playful, and appear irritable.
Lower Energy Levels Throughout the Day
Sleep restores energy, so without adequate rest, your dog may lose interest in play, be reluctant on walks, or limit backyard visits and outside time to just long enough to go potty.
What Causes Insomnia in Dogs?
Clinical insomnia in dogs is very rare. The signs of insomnia you see in your dog are usually the result of another condition making it difficult for your dog to sleep.
Physical Discomfort
If your dog is experiencing physical discomfort, they may be unable to find a comfortable position to fall asleep and stay asleep. If there’s any chance your dog may be injured, you need to take the situation seriously and contact your vet as soon as possible.
Joint discomfort is relatively common in older dogs as cartilage deteriorates with age. You may notice your dog hesitating to go on walks or no longer jumping on furniture if you usually allow them on your bed or couch. They’ll also have difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position, circling their bed, or frequently repositioning themselves, which can interrupt their sleep.
Illness
Signs such as nausea, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing can keep your dog up at night. Check your dog for signs of illness — changes in appetite and bathroom habits can indicate that your dog is experiencing digestive trouble. If your dog struggles to breathe or is often panting, they may have a respiratory health condition. Any significant illness, especially respiratory issues, requires prompt veterinary input.
Kidney or Urinary Health Issues
Frequent urination can disrupt your dog’s sleep and may indicate issues with kidney health or urinary tract disorders.
If your dog is asking to go outside all day and all night or helping themselves through the doggy door, it’s worth checking with your veterinarian.
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction
Senior dogs can experience canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), which is considered the dog equivalent of Alzheimer’s disease. This type of cognitive decline can cause mental disorientation, including disruptions to sleep patterns. Other signs include not recognizing familiar environments or people, and general restlessness or irritability, as well as forgetting previously learned behaviors or house rules.
How Can I Help My Dog with Insomnia?
If your dog’s insomnia isn’t related to an urgent medical emergency, like an injury or severe illness, there are several ways you can promote better rest. And it’s important to keep in mind that older dogs might need extra support at bedtime.
Provide a Comfortable Bed
Dogs with joint discomfort need extra support. Even if hard floors were previously their preference or a favorite place to nap, it’s much better to provide them with a thick, soft dog bed or cushion to support their joints, making it easier for them to find and maintain a comfortable sleeping position.
Create a Suitable Environment
Dogs have a tough time sleeping in too hot or cold environments. They also have a tough time sleeping in loud and distracting environments.
Your dog needs a quiet place at an appropriate temperature to sleep comfortably. You may need to move your dog’s sleeping area or change your home environment to support better sleep.
Support Cognitive Wellness
For senior dogs showing signs of cognitive decline, maintaining a consistent routine and minimizing environmental stressors can help. Brain-healthy supplements like omega-3 fatty acids may also support cognitive wellness in older dogs — speak with your veterinarian about what’s appropriate for your pet.
Ensure Enough Exercise
Adequate physical activity is integral for a dog’s healthy and happy life. While different breeds and ages will have varied requirements, learning your dog’s needs is essential.
For some families, daily walks around the neighborhood will suffice. If your life is too hectic to provide your dog with regular exercise, find local dog parks or multi-acre daycares. While our schedules can get busy, providing our dog with what they need physically will ensure they have a balanced, fulfilling life.
And just like humans, tiring out a dog’s body will allow them to get adequate sleep at night. It is hard to sleep with pent-up energy, whether you are a dog or a person.
Remember: don’t disregard professional input from veterinary physical therapists, acupuncturists and hydro therapists, who can all play an important role in keeping your dog as mobile possible, so that they are able to continue to obtain mental stimulation through exercise.
In Conclusion: You Can Help Your Dog Get Some Sleep
If your dog is restless at bedtime, they may need a little extra support. Providing a comfortable sleeping space, addressing any underlying health concerns with your veterinarian, and ensuring your dog gets adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation can all make a meaningful difference. When in doubt, your vet is always the best first call.
Sources:
Here’s How to Make Sure Your Puppy Gets Enough Sleep | American Kennel Club
Osteoarthritis in Dogs — Signs and Treatment | American Kennel Club
Circadian and photic modulation of daily rhythms in diurnal mammals | PMC
Any health or medical information in ElleVet blogs is from a variety of public and reputable sources. This information is intended as an educational resource only and is not a substitute for expert professional care.