Vets share the 3 signs to look out for to make sure your dog sleeps well

Just like people, dogs need plenty of rest to stay happy and healthy. When they don't get enough sleep, it can impact their mood and behaviour. Experts said there are clear signs to watch for that may indicate your dog isn't getting enough shut-eye. According to research from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report from 2024, dogs sleeping less than 10 hours a day might show certain warning signs.

Dogs should ideally get between 12 to 16 hours of sleep each day, according to experts. One of the first steps in ensuring your dog is well rested is to observe them closely both when they're sleeping and when they're awake. Watching quietly without disturbing them can help you notice restless sleep, frequent waking, or unusual behaviours like irritability, lack of focus, or increased agitation. Dr Sarah Heath, FRCVS - RCVS and EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Behavioural Medicine, said: "The potential for a link between poor sleep duration and behaviours which caregivers find problematic is consistent with recent publications in the field of veterinary behavioural medicine and also warrants further investigation."

1. Restlessness and distress when your dog is alone

Dogs, being social animals, thrive on companionship, but they also need that quiet time to recharge. The PDSA experts emphasised that some dogs may show signs of distress when left alone, such as pacing, whining, or restlessness.

Interestingly, dogs left alone for long periods sometimes show fewer distress signs, possibly because they've become accustomed or their owners have adapted routines to avoid these stressful situations.

However, being left alone for more than five hours regularly can negatively affect a dog's mental health. Dog owners should observe how relaxed their dog is when alone and whether sleep appears peaceful or on the contrary, is interrupted by anxiety.

2. Growling, snapping, and aggressive behaviours

The experts also warned that insufficient or poor quality sleep can contribute to increased aggression or fear-based behaviours in dogs.

The 2024 PAW Report found that dogs getting less than 10 hours of sleep were more likely to exhibit growling, snapping, or biting behaviours towards other dogs both familiar and unfamiliar compared to those getting more than 13 hours of rest.

These confrontational behaviours may be a significant red flag indicating the dog is not receiving adequate sleep, which is essential for emotional regulation and cognitive function.

3. The e nvironment they are living in

Another critical sign vets point out is the impact of the household environment on a dog's ability to rest. Dogs living in busier homes with more people or children sometimes tend to sleep less than those in quieter households.

The noise, activity, and unpredictability in homes with many family members can disrupt a dog's sleep, leading to less than the recommended 12 to 16 hours of rest per day.

If your dog appears tired, irritable, or shows unusual behaviour during the day, it may be worth evaluating their sleeping environment and creating a more regular routine to ensure they have a calm, secure place to relax, away from the noise and distractions.