The Secret Life of Your Sleeping Dog

Pet Care Tips 4 min read

When your fur kid is asleep and they’re chasing something in their sleep, it’s easily one of the cutest things in the world. While their sleep can give us cute moments like these, it can also give a look into their health and wellbeing. This is the secret life of your sleeping dog!

The Importance of Good Sleep for Dogs

Sleep has more functions than you’d think, even for our pups. Sleep is when your pup’s cells undergo repair, keeping their muscles and tissues strong after injury or exercise. Rest is also an important part of the immune system, giving it a chance to fight sickness.

But it goes beyond that, too. A good, deep rest actually plays an important part in your dog’s brain health and memories. When their brain is resting, it’s helping to encode the day’s memories. So, the more their brain gets deep, restful sleep, the better their memory may become.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Every pup is different, and so is the amount of sleep they will need. But in general, good sleep times are approximately:

16 – 20 hours for puppies
14 hours for adult dogs
Extra time for senior dogs

It is important to know your pup’s average sleep time. If they start sleeping a lot more or a lot less, it is worth mentioning this to your vet. It could be that their achy joints are making it difficult to get comfortable, anxiety is keeping them awake, or hypothyroidism is causing extra sleepiness.

What Do Dogs Dream Of?

When your dog twitches, they are usually reliving their day. Research shows that dog brains process sleep much like ours do. They dream about their favorite everyday moments: chasing a ball, sniffing new paths, playing with you, or mastering a new trick. Those cute little sleep-runs are just your pup replaying their best memories – but don’t wake them up! When they’re deep in sleep, they’re entering REM-sleep (rapid eye movement). If you wake them from REM sleep, it can leave them tired the next day. This includes doggy nightmares – yes, our pups can sometimes have nightmares, too!

The Pre-Sleep Ritual

Have you ever noticed how your dog spins three times before going to bed? Or maybe they rearrange the blankets or dig at the carpet a little? Fun fact: this adorable little routine is actually their instincts at work. In the wild, circling and clearing away tall grass can scare off pests while creating a comfortable resting spot.

Even in the comfort of their home, a pre-sleep ritual helps to signal to their brain that it’s time to unwind. Watching how easily or intensely your fur kid does this routine can tell you a lot about their comfort. If they pace a lot or have trouble getting comfortable, it could be a sign they are anxious or that their joints are stiff.

Morning Ritual To Start the Day Right

Dogs thrive on routine. In fact, a change in their routine can be a big source of stress for your little one. Here are a few ways to give them the best start to their day:

Gently wake them up. Some fur kids get up when you do, but a gentle pat if they’re still asleep can help them wake up calmly.
Go for a potty break. Your dog may need to go to the bathroom first thing in the morning. By consistently letting them go outside, you also teach them that they can reliably relieve themselves, which may help to reduce nighttime accidents.
Balanced breakfast. Good nutrition will give them energy to play and start the day off right.
Supplement time! Whether you’re giving them NHV supplements for general wellness or a specific health condition, most are taken twice a day. Give them their morning dose to help them stay on track.
Do a bit of training. Grab your pup’s favorite healthy treats and do a bit of training while their mind is fresh.

Even though life can have its variations, it’s best to keep a steady routine if possible. It may be helpful to keep a morning to-do list near their food bowl to make sure you’ve done everything.

Tips to Help Your Fur Kid Get a Good Rest

To help your pup get a good rest, having a cozy, dedicated sleeping space is imperative. Make sure their bed is placed in a quiet area away from high-traffic zones, cold drafts, and sudden household noises.

However, if chronic stress, separation anxiety, or loud noises are still affecting their ability to get a restful sleep, even the comfiest bed might not be enough. You will need to address chronic stress

Natural Support for Anxious Pups

Nighttime anxiety, restlessness, and hyper-vigilance can keep your dog from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep they need to recharge.

Herbal remedies like NHV Lesstress may help ease nervousness in your fur kiddo with 100% natural and human-grade ingredients. Best of all, it promotes a sense of calm without causing heavy sedation. Its blend of soothing herbs, including chamomile and passionflower, may help ease tension throughout the day, promoting stress-free rest.

Combining a comforting environment with gentle, holistic support ensures your pup gets the quality sleep they need to stay happy, healthy, and ready for tomorrow’s adventures!

Lesstress for Pets – Stress and Anxiety Support

USD $47.95

general wellbeing

Shelter Pet Happy Start Kit

USD $146.85

Anxiety and Stress support

Anxiety and Stress in Dogs Support Kit

USD $92.95

NHV Pet Experts

We have a dedicated group of pet expert professionals, including veterinarians, vet techs, and other pet professionals to guide you through any questions. We’re committed to your pet’s wellness and can offer additional tips, resources, nutritional advice, and more.