Is Your Dog Sleeping Too Much?

Many dog parents know that their dogs tend to sleep a lot! Not as much as cats, but dogs do get a lot of sleep and nap time done during the day. But, when is the sleeping too much, particularly if our dog seems disinterested in play, meals, or walks?

It really comes down to how much sleep is normal for your particular dog and when it crosses the line into a potential health concern.

Let’s take a look at what a normal sleep pattern is for dogs, what might be a red flag, and what to do if you suspect your dog is sleeping more than they should.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Actually Need?

Just like people, dogs need different amounts of sleep depending on their age, breed, and activity level.

In general:

Adult dogs sleep between 12–14 hours a day.

Puppies may need up to 18–20 hours of sleep because their bodies and brains are still developing.

Senior dogs also tend to sleep more, closer to 16–18 hours daily, as their energy naturally decreases.

Large breeds, such as Great Danes or Mastiffs, are often known as “gentle giants” for a reason—they sleep more than smaller dogs. And dogs that get lots of stimulation or physical exercise often need more rest to recover.

Therefore, if your dog’s sleep fits within these general ranges, it may be perfectly normal. But if your dog starts sleeping a lot more than they used to, it could be time to take a closer look.

Should You Be Concerned If Your Dog Sleeps All Day?

If you’ve been noticing that your dog sleeps all day long and are concerned, it’s important to see what other signals are occurring along with that long sleep. A dog who wakes up eagerly for meals, enjoys daily walks, and remains curious about their environment, even if he or she naps a lot, is usually just fine.

On the flip side, if your dog seems unresponsive, skips meals or only picks at their food, refuses to go outside, or stops engaging with you, it could point to something more serious. These behavioral changes, especially when paired with lethargic dog signs like weakness or confusion, may be your dog’s way of signaling that they’re not feeling well.

In some cases, sleeping more than usual can be a coping mechanism for illness, physical pain, or emotional stress. Dogs dealing with infections, thyroid imbalances like hypothyroidism, heart disease, or even depression often retreat into extra sleep. That’s why paying attention to your dog’s daily habits and how they change is important.

What Are The Signs That Your Dog Is Sleeping Too Much?

A sleepy dog doesn’t always mean something is wrong, but when excessive sleep is paired with other symptoms, it could be a red flag. Some of the most common lethargic dog signs include a general lack of energy or enthusiasm, slow or stiff movements, and reluctance to stand or walk.

You may also notice heavy or labored breathing, especially when your dog is resting. Other signs to watch for include a refusal to play or interact, a noticeable decrease in appetite, changes in posture or limping, and fluctuations in weight or coat quality.

If your dog is sleeping significantly more than usual and showing one or more of these symptoms, it’s best to schedule a veterinary check-up. Your vet may recommend bloodwork or diagnostic imaging to help uncover any underlying health issues that could be contributing to your dog’s lethargy. Early intervention is key to keeping your dog happy, healthy, and active.

Stress and Boredom Can Lead to Oversleeping

It’s not always a physical health issue when a dog sleeps a lot. Dogs may sleep more due to emotional changes or lack of stimulation. A bored dog has very little to do, so they nap. Changes in the household, like a new baby, moving, or even another pet’s death, can also trigger low energy and increased sleep.

Make sure your dog’s day includes enrichment such as puzzle toys, sniff walks, short training sessions, or even scent work at home. If your dog’s sleep is driven by boredom, these activities may help naturally boost their energy and enthusiasm.

What to Do If You’re Worried – When To Call the Vet

If you’re seeing behavioral changes or lethargic dog signs, the best next step is to call your vet. A physical exam, along with bloodwork, can help uncover causes like infections, anemia, thyroid imbalance, or other internal issues.

Try to note:

• How long has this behavior been going on?

• What your dog’s routine and energy were like before you noticed the excess sleep?

• Were there any dietary changes, medications, or stressful events?

All this information can helps your vet make a more accurate diagnosis.

The Bottom Line

It’s normal for dogs to sleep a lot, but not all day, every day without a break in behavior. Some dogs simply love to snooze, but if your pup is also acting withdrawn, ignoring food, or showing other signs of lethargy, it’s time to take action and call your vet.