We all know dogs love their naps, but it turns out they need much more sleep than we might expect. According to Ben The Vet, a UK veterinarian with over 200,000 followers on TikTok, dogs should be getting 12 to 14 hours of sleep every day, much more than the 8 hours humans typically need.
Ben explains that some dogs, especially giant breeds, puppies, and very active dogs, may even require up to 18 hours of sleep. Dogs are diurnal, meaning they are awake during the day and sleep at night, but unlike humans, they are polyphasic sleepers. This means they have multiple sleep periods throughout the day, not just one long stretch at night.
Lack of sleep isn’t a sign of laziness—it’s a normal part of a dog’s life. However, many dogs are not getting enough daytime rest. This could be due to activities like going to a busy Doggy Daycare or living in a home with small children, where they’re unable to take quiet naps during the day.
The lack of sleep can negatively impact a dog’s behavior. Just like humans, sleep-deprived dogs can become more frustrated or anxious, which can lead to behavioral problems. Ben emphasizes that there’s truth to the saying, “Let sleeping dogs lie,” as giving your dog ample time to rest is essential for their well-being.
So, next time your dog is napping, remember—they’re simply following nature’s rules!