If you own a dog, you may have noticed that they spend a great portion of their day sleeping. It may be bewildering for many people to grasp, but dogs love sleeping! But how much sleep is too much? Spot Pet Insurance and our experts are here to answer your question. Continue reading below to learn more.
Is It Normal for Dogs to Sleep All Day?
According to research, dogs spend a staggering eight to thirteen and a half hours sleeping a day. This is much more than what the average human needs in sleep, which is just about seven to eight hours of sleep. However, this does not mean that dogs can or should sleep all day. If your dog is sleeping more than this amount, you should make sure to take it to a vet for professional care.
Is it True That Happy Dogs Sleep All Day?
While it may be true that dogs that feel comfortable in their current setting will fall asleep and be at ease, it does not necessarily mean that they are “happier.” A happy dog has all of its needs met. Every dog has different needs, so dog owners need to make sure that they understand their dog’s exercise and diet needs. A good indication that your dog is content with its life at home would be the fact that it sleeps a lot throughout the day. As the saying goes, “A tired dog is a good dog.”
Does a Dog That Sleeps a Lot Indicate That it is Sad?
No, a dog that sleeps a lot does not necessarily indicate that it is sad - however, it may indicate underlying depression or sadness.
Why Would Your Dog Be Sleeping a Lot?
If you notice that your dog is sleeping more than expected, there could be many reasons. For example, dogs with low activity levels may be manifesting their boredom through low activity levels and sleep. Conversely, your dog may be sleeping more because of a spike in physical activity. Some other reasons that your dog may be sleeping a lot include:
Health issues
Changes in diet and routine
Stress related to losing a family member or change in environment
Signs of Sadness or Depression in Dogs
If you are worried about your dog being depressed, there are some things that you should look out for. Some of the most relevant signs to look out for include the following:
Loss of interest in activities that they once enjoyed
Decreased appetite
Avoiding interaction with family or other pets
Unusual whining, pacing, or lethargy or other signs of emotional distress
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.
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With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
