Adequate sleep is very important for the healthy development of puppies. After all, the rapid growth during the first months of life takes a lot of strength and the exciting experiences of everyday life still have to be processed. Below you can find out how many hours a day puppies should sleep and how you can support your young four-legged friend.
Key facts at a glance
- Puppies sleep and snooze for around 20 to 22 hours each day.
- Some puppies have trouble getting enough rest on their own.
- Lack of sleep can cause serious health problems for young dogs.
- Dog owners should support their four-legged friends from an early age when sleeping and resting.
- A quiet place to sleep near you will help the puppy calm down during the day.
That’s how much sleep puppies need
The need for sleep and rest is generally much higher in dogs than in humans. This is especially true for puppies. While adult dogs usually get by with around 17 hours, puppies even need 20 to 22 hours of sleep and rest a day.
So while proper deep sleep is only part of that time, it’s not uncommon for your four-legged friend to appear to be lying around doing nothing for most of the day.
Not all puppies get enough sleep
Your puppy’s behavior may give you a different idea of their sleep needs. Because by no means every young dog withdraws on its own when it is tired.
Some four-legged friends seem to have endless energy and hardly ever get tired. But this impression is deceptive. If your pup isn’t sleeping enough, it’s not because he doesn’t need sleep. Rather, he is simply afraid of missing out on something exciting.
Lack of sleep is bad for the puppy’s health
Despite all the joy you get from romping around with your puppy, you should always remember that getting enough sleep is very important for the healthy development of your four-legged friend.
Persistent lack of sleep has serious health consequences sooner or later. It can increase the development of behavioral disorders and the young dog’s susceptibility to illness and permanently damage its development.
How to help your puppy sleep
To avoid negative health effects, you as the owner should make sure from the start that your puppy gets enough rest and sleep. In the beginning, this can sometimes even mean that you have to lie down together with your four-legged friend.
You should also always encourage him when he goes off to rest on his own. Also, make sure that your puppy is not disturbed while sleeping. In addition, fixed daily routines help your puppy to find his or her way around, which ultimately also has a positive effect on his sleep patterns.
The right place to sleep makes a big difference
A comfortable place to sleep where your puppy feels safe and secure plays a crucial role in the sleeping habits of young four-legged friends. A quiet corner in the living room is usually very well suited to offer your four-legged friend a place to retreat to during the day.
Avoid direct sunlight, drafts or the immediate vicinity of the heater. Also, make sure your puppy’s sleeping space is large enough for them to stretch out completely.