Let Sleeping Dogs Lie: Why Sleep is Essential for Your Dog’s Wellbeing

We all know how grumpy we can get after a bad night’s sleep. Struggling to focus, feeling irritable, or just not coping with the day as well as usual. But have you ever stopped to think about how important sleep is for your dog?

Sleep is one of the most overlooked pillars of canine health and behaviour. We focus so much on exercise, training, and diet—but without good quality rest, everything else can start to unravel. I’ve seen it first-hand with my own dogs. When Storm began waking frequently during the night, it wasn’t just a disturbance to my sleep—it was a clear sign that something wasn’t right for her. And I’ll never forget how Pippa, when struggling with skin problems, became noticeably more irritable at home and reactive on walks. Looking back, broken sleep due to constant itching was likely a huge factor.

So, why is sleep so crucial—for both humans and dogs—and what really happens when our dogs aren’t getting enough?

What Happens When We Sleep? (And Yes, This Applies to Dogs Too!)

Sleep isn’t just “downtime”—it’s when the body and brain get to work on all the vital processes that keep us healthy, balanced, and able to cope with life.

In humans, sleep is when:

• The body repairs tissues and muscles.

• Hormones are regulated.

• The immune system is strengthened.

• Memories are processed and learning is consolidated.

• Emotional regulation happens—helping us stay calm and resilient.

Dogs experience many of these same benefits. Their brains also process learning during sleep (ever noticed your dog twitching or paddling their legs? That’s likely them processing memories during REM sleep!). Physical recovery, emotional balance, and even immune health all depend on getting enough quality rest.

But here’s where dogs differ—they don’t sleep like we do.

How Do Dogs Sleep?

Unlike humans, who typically get one long stretch of sleep overnight, dogs are polyphasic sleepers. This means they sleep in multiple chunks throughout a 24-hour period. On average, adult dogs need around 12–14 hours of sleep per day, while puppies, seniors, and giant breeds may need up to 18–20 hours.

Another key difference is that dogs spend less time in deep sleep compared to humans. They tend to remain semi-alert, easily roused by sounds or movement—an instinct that historically kept them safe. Because of this, dogs need the opportunity to nap throughout the day to make up for lighter, more fragmented sleep.

👉 Key Point: If a dog’s environment doesn’t allow for regular, undisturbed rest, they can quickly become overtired, leading to a cascade of behavioural and health issues.

The Hidden Consequences of Poor Sleep in Dogs

We often assume that a tired dog is a well-behaved dog. But there’s a big difference between a dog who’s content after a good balance of activity and rest, and a dog who’s running on empty because they’re not getting enough quality sleep.

Just like us, when dogs are sleep-deprived, it doesn’t take long before things start to fall apart—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

1. Mood Changes and Irritability

One of the first signs of poor sleep is a shift in mood. A dog who isn’t well-rested may become:

• Short-tempered with other dogs or family members.

• More prone to snapping or growling at minor annoyances.

• Less tolerant of handling or changes in routine.

I saw this clearly with Pippa. When she was suffering from ongoing skin problems, her constant itching disrupted her sleep—both day and night. It wasn’t long before she became noticeably irritable at home, reacting to things that never used to bother her. On walks, she was more reactive, barking at triggers she’d previously ignored. At first glance, it seemed like a behavioural issue—but underneath it all was a dog who was simply exhausted and uncomfortable.

2. Reduced Ability to Cope with Everyday Life

Sleep plays a huge role in emotional regulation. Without enough rest, dogs—just like humans—struggle to cope with stress. Things that would usually be manageable can suddenly feel overwhelming:

• Increased reactivity to noises, people, or other dogs.

• Difficulty settling in busy environments.

• Overexcitability or, conversely, withdrawal.

If your dog seems more "on edge" lately, it’s worth asking: Are they really getting enough proper rest?

3. Impact on Learning and Training

Sleep is when the brain consolidates memories and learning. Studies in both humans and animals show that lack of sleep impairs cognitive function, making it harder to:

• Focus during training sessions.

• Retain new information.

• Problem-solve effectively.

If a dog is overtired, you might notice they appear "stubborn" or distracted—but in reality, their brain simply isn’t in the right state to learn. Ensuring your dog is well-rested can make a huge difference to how successful (and enjoyable) training sessions are.

4. Physical Health: The Silent Toll

Chronic sleep deprivation doesn’t just affect behaviour—it can have serious consequences for your dog’s physical health:

• Weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to illness.

• Increased sensitivity to pain.

• Slower recovery from injuries or illness.

• Hormonal imbalances, which can impact everything from appetite to stress responses.

Research shows that sleep and the body’s natural rhythms play a crucial role in regulating immune function through complex communication between the brain and immune system (Besedovsky et al., 2012). During deep sleep, the body releases hormones that boost immune responses and help build long-term protection against illness.

On the flip side, chronic lack of sleep can trigger ongoing low-grade inflammation and weaken the immune system over time. While these studies are based on humans, the same biological processes apply to our dogs—highlighting just how important proper rest is for staying healthy.

5. The Vicious Cycle: Discomfort, Sleep Loss, and Behaviour

It’s important to recognise how pain or discomfort—whether from conditions like arthritis, skin issues, or digestive problems—can disturb a dog’s sleep. This then feeds into behavioural changes, which are often misunderstood.

With Storm, I noticed she was getting up and shifting position frequently during the night. As she slept in our room (and still does), I was aware of these subtle signs. It turned out she was experiencing discomfort (she has bilateral hip dysplasia). Once she was on appropriate pain management, her sleep improved—and so did her general wellbeing and arousal levels.

👉 Key Point: If your dog is restless at night or struggles to settle during the day, it could be a sign of underlying discomfort. Addressing this is important!

Why Choice Matters for Your Dog's Sleep

One of the most important things we can offer our dogs is choice. Being able to choose where they sleep—whether it’s a cosy bed, a cool spot on the floor, or close to their humans—supports their emotional wellbeing.

Dogs naturally seek out sleeping spots where they feel:

• Safe

• Comfortable

• Able to regulate their temperature

If we restrict that choice, we risk creating low-level stress or discomfort. Imagine being forced to sleep in a room that’s too hot, too cold, or where you just don’t feel relaxed—it’s unlikely you’d get a good night’s sleep!

Sleeping Alone vs. Sleeping with Companions

I’ve always believed that many dogs struggle to fully relax when made to sleep alone, especially when isolated in another room or confined. Now, research is beginning to back that up.

A 2022 study found that dogs with strong attachments to their owners showed more restful sleep when in close proximity to them (Iotchev et al., 2022). Proximity to trusted humans can offer a sense of security, allowing dogs to enter deeper, more restorative sleep.

This matches what I’ve seen with my own dogs. Storm sleeps in our room, and I know she settles far better when she has the choice to be near us. When she was uncomfortable and shifting around at night, I noticed straight away—something I’d have missed if she were sleeping elsewhere.

That said, breed differences can play a role. Some independent breeds—like livestock guardians —may prefer sleeping alone, while companion breeds often thrive when close to their people. The key is recognising your individual dog’s preferences, not following a one-size-fits-all rule.

Crating: Safe Space or Welfare Concern?

Crates can be a helpful tool when used correctly—many dogs enjoy having a safe, den-like space they can retreat to. But problems arise when crates are used as a method of overnight confinement, with the door shut and no option to leave.

Potential welfare concerns include:

• Restricted movement, preventing dogs from adjusting position freely.

• Temperature regulation issues, especially with covered crates.

• Increased feelings of isolation or stress, particularly for dogs who seek proximity.

It’s important to remember that while some dogs may choose to sleep in an open crate, it should always be exactly that—a choice.

Forcing a dog to sleep crated overnight, especially during key developmental stages or when they’re already feeling vulnerable, can risk emotional distress and poor-quality sleep.

👉 Key Point: Every dog is different, but giving them freedom to choose their sleeping spot—whether that’s a bed, sofa, crate (left open), or your bedroom floor—can make a huge difference to their ability to rest properly.

Is Your Dog Really Getting Enough Sleep?

We often assume our dogs are resting well—but if they sleep in another room, how do you really know?

If You’re Not Sure—Record Them!

If your dog sleeps downstairs or away from you at night, consider setting up:

• A baby monitor

• A pet camera

• Or simply use an old phone to record overnight.

You might be surprised at what you see:

• Frequent position changes

• Getting up and pacing

• Whining, barking, or periods of wakefulness

Even during the day, watch whether your dog can nap undisturbed. Busy households, loud environments, or constant interruptions can prevent proper rest.

Keep a Simple Sleep Diary

Tracking your dog’s sleep for just a few days can highlight patterns you hadn’t noticed:

• When do they settle?

• How often are they disturbed?

• Are they truly relaxed, or just lying awake?

👉 Key Point: Once you're aware of your dog’s sleep habits, you can make small changes that have a big impact on their wellbeing.

Supporting Better Sleep for Your Dog

Once you start paying attention to your dog’s sleep, you’ll realise how small changes can make a big difference to their rest—and in turn, their behaviour, mood, and overall health.

Here are some simple ways to help your dog get the quality sleep they need:

Give Them Options

Dogs know where they feel most comfortable—so offer them a few different places to sleep:

• A cosy bed in a quiet corner.

• Access to cooler flooring if they get too warm.

• The choice to sleep near you if that’s what helps them relax.

👉 Remember: What feels right one day might change the next, depending on temperature, mood, or how safe they feel.

Minimise Disturbances

• Create a calm environment, especially during key rest times.

• If you have a busy household, set up a dedicated quiet space where your dog won’t be interrupted.

• Encourage family members (especially kids!) to let your dog sleep undisturbed—sleep isn’t "doing nothing," it’s essential recovery time.

  
  

Check the Routine

Some dogs struggle to switch off if their day is too unpredictable or overstimulating.

• Build in calm periods where your dog can fully relax.

• Avoid too much excitement or rough play late in the evening—think of it like a "wind-down" routine before bed

Watch for Signs of Discomfort

If your dog is restless despite a good environment, it’s worth considering:

• Could they be too hot or cold?

• Is their bedding comfortable?

• Are they showing subtle signs of pain or irritation (like Storm and Pippa were)?

Never dismiss frequent night-time movement or difficulty settling—these can be early indicators of underlying health issues.

⚠️ A Quick Note on Sleeping Spaces and Behaviour:

While giving your dog choice is important, if your dog shows signs of resource guarding or becomes uncomfortable when sharing spaces (like beds or sofas), it’s best to manage this carefully. In these cases, focus on offering alternative comfy spots nearby, and seek advice from a qualified behaviourist to address any underlying issues.

Final Thoughts: Sleep—The Missing Piece in Your Dog’s Wellbeing

Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s a vital part of your dog’s physical health, emotional balance, and behaviour.

By simply paying more attention to how, where, and how well your dog sleeps, you can make a real difference to their quality of life.

Whether it’s offering more choice, creating a calmer environment, or spotting those subtle signs of discomfort like I did with Storm and Pippa, small changes can have a big impact.

So tonight, take a moment to ask yourself:

“Is my dog truly resting—and what can I do to help them sleep better?”

Need Support? I’m Here to Help

If you’ve noticed changes in your dog’s mood, behaviour, or sleep patterns—and you’re not sure why—I can help.

From identifying potential discomfort to creating routines and environments that support your dog’s wellbeing, I offer tailored advice that puts your dog’s needs first.

Feel free to get in touch for a chat about how we can support your dog to feel calmer, happier, and well-rested.

References

Iotchev, I., Adkins-Regan, E., Kubinyi, E., & Gácsi, M. (2022). Attachment towards the Owner Is Associated with Spontaneous Sleep EEG Activity in Family Dogs. Animals, 12(7), 869. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12070869

Besedovsky, L., Lange, T., & Born, J. (2012). Sleep and immune function. Pflugers Archiv - European Journal of Physiology, 463, 121–137. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00424-011-1044-0