The Ultimate Guide to Your Dog’s Sleeping Habits: How Many Hours Do Dogs Sleep?
Are you wondering how many hours do dogs sleep in a day? While humans and dogs share some similarities, their sleep patterns are vastly different, with dogs snuggling up for 12-14 hours of sleep on average every day. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of canine sleep patterns, exploring why dogs sleep so much, and how their sleep habits change with age, breed, and lifestyle. From puppies to seniors, and from small breeds to large breeds, we’ll uncover the secrets to understanding your furry friend’s sleep needs.
Canine Sleep Patterns: What to Expect
If you’re curious about how many hours dogs sleep in a day, you’re not alone. Understanding a dog’s sleep habits is essential to providing them with the care and attention they need to thrive. In this section, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of canine sleep patterns, exploring what influences their sleep duration and how you can promote healthy sleep habits for your furry friend. Whether your pup sleeps 8 hours or 16, knowing what to expect will help you provide the best possible support for their overall well-being.
Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much?
Dogs sleep for about 12-14 hours a day on average, which can vary depending on their age, breed, and lifestyle. For example, puppy dogs tend to sleep more, up to 18-20 hours a day, while adult dogs sleep about 12-14 hours daily. As for breed, small breeds like Toy Poodles tend to sleep less, around 10-12 hours, compared to larger breeds like Great Danes, who sleep more, up to 16-18 hours ^1.
Sleep duration can change with age as well. Puppies grow and develop through sleep, whereas adult dogs will sleep more. Senior dogs can also experience significant changes in sleep patterns, waking up more during the night.
Dogs do not sleep the same way as humans do; they have periods of deep and light sleep intertwined throughout the night. According to a study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior dogs have less deep sleep at night with more short power naps throughout the day which is essential in maintaining cognitive processing and learning [^2].
Factors influencing sleep are numerous, owners should pay closer attention to dog’s physical conditions, age-related changes, medications, or new environments which will affect the hours of sleep significantly. It seems that the number of hours our dogs sleep influences their behavior overall.
In another study published, sleep disorder in dogs that can be induced by factors beyond their control as stress and overstimulation cause behavioral problems if not managed at an early phase ^3.
Thus, owners understanding the normal cycle of their animal’s sleep as well as why they sleep should be a continuous process. Every dog has sleep needs, based on the mentioned factors.
How Many Hours Do Dogs Sleep?
If you’re wondering how many hours dogs sleep, you’re not alone. Canine sleep patterns are fascinating and, like us, they need a good night’s sleep to feel rested and refreshed. But just how many hours do dogs sleep?
The Average Dog Sleeps 12-14 Hours a Day
Research suggests that the average dog sleeps for around 12-14 hours a day. However, this number can vary depending on factors such as age, breed, and lifestyle. A study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare ^1 found that dogs sleep for an average of 12 hours a day, with some dogs sleeping as little as 8 hours and others sleeping up to 16 hours.
Factors Influencing Canine Sleep Durations
So, what affects a dog’s sleep duration? Several factors come into play, including age, breed, and lifestyle. A dog’s sleep pattern can change as they mature, with puppies sleeping more than adult dogs and seniors sleeping more than during their prime. Some breeds, such as Basset Hounds and Bulldogs, are known to sleep more than others, while high-energy breeds like Labradors and Australian Shepherds may sleep less. Additionally, a dog’s lifestyle, including regular exercise and activity levels, can impact their sleep needs.
Exercise and Sleep: The Connection
Regular exercise is essential for a dog’s overall health, including their sleep. Dogs that get regular physical activity tend to sleep better and longer than those that don’t. However, it’s essential to balance exercise with a consistent sleep schedule to avoid disrupting your dog’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, and consider incorporating physical activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress, such as yoga or swimming.
Consistency is Key to Healthy Sleep Habits
Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for your dog’s overall health and well-being. A predictable routine will help regulate their internal clock, ensuring they get the rest they need to stay healthy and happy. By maintaining a regular sleep schedule, you can promote healthy sleep habits and help your dog sleep through the night without interruptions.
Conclusion
To summarize, the average dog sleeps for 12-14 hours a day, with factors like age, breed, and lifestyle influencing their sleep duration. Regular exercise and a consistent sleep schedule can promote healthy sleep habits, while a predictable routine can help regulate their internal clock. By understanding canine sleep patterns and making adjustments as needed, you can help your furry friend get the rest they need to thrive.
^1: Owen, S. F. (2017). Sleep in dogs. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare, 16(3), 145-155. doi: 10.1080/09627282.2017.1347344
Remember to provide a comfortable and quiet sleeping space for your dog, avoid stimulating activities before bedtime, and establish a consistent sleep schedule to promote healthy sleep habits. With patience, understanding, and care, you can help your dog sleep like a pro!
Maintaining a Healthy Sleep Schedule
Maintaining a Healthy Sleep Schedule
As we discussed in the previous section, establishing a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for promoting healthy sleep habits in dogs. However, a sleep schedule is not a one-time task, but rather an ongoing process that requires effort and dedication from dog owners. In this section, we’ll delve into the importance of maintaining a healthy sleep schedule for dogs and explore ways to encourage physical activity, which is a vital component of promoting restful sleep in canines. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this section, you can help your dog establish a regular sleep schedule, reduce the risk of sleep-related disorders, and ensure a happy and healthy life.
Establishing a Bedtime Routine
A well-established bedtime routine is essential for promoting healthy sleep habits in your dog. A consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your dog’s body clock and ensure they get the rest they need to stay physically and mentally healthy.
1. Create a Calm and Relaxing Environment for Bedtime
When it’s time for bed, your dog needs a peaceful and relaxing environment to wind down and prepare for sleep. A calm atmosphere can be achieved by ensuring:
- Dim table lamps or soft lighting in the bedroom 1{:target=”_blank”} and dim red lights will be less stimulating to your dog’s circadian circadian-sensitive photoreceptors
You can also play calming music, use essential oils, or employ white noise machines to create a soothing ambiance. A quiet and peaceful bedroom can help signal to your dog that it’s time to sleep.
2. Gradually Increase the Duration of the Bedtime Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to establishing a bedtime routine. Start by incorporating short activities, such as a 5-minute massage or a short walk, and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes accustomed to the new schedule.
Aim to increase the duration by 10-15 minutes every few days to allow your dog’s body to adapt. This will help signaling the start of the sleep/wake cycle.
3. Avoid Stimulating Activities Before Bedtime
Avoid over-exerting your dog before bedtime. Engaging in high-energy activities, such as playing fetch or going for a long run, can indeed stimulate your dog’s nervous system and make it difficult for them to relax.
Instead, opt for relaxing activities, such as a gentle belly rub, a gentle brushing session, or a quiet game that winds your dog down.
4. Provide a Comfortable and Quiet Sleeping Space
Your dog deserves a comfortable and peaceful space to sleep. Ensure their bed is:
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5. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
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Establishing a Bedtime Routine
A well-established bedtime routine is essential for promoting healthy sleep habits in your dog. A consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your dog’s body clock and ensure they get the rest they need to stay physically and mentally healthy.
1. Create a Calm and Relaxing Environment for Bedtime
When it’s time for bed, your dog needs a peaceful and relaxing environment to wind down and prepare for sleep. A calm atmosphere can be achieved by:
- Dimming the lights or using a bedroom with minimal lighting
- Playing calming music
- Using essential oils or a diffuser with a calming scent
- Reducing background noise with a white noise machine or earplugs
A quiet and peaceful bedroom helps signal to your dog that it’s time to sleep.
2. Gradually Increase the Duration of the Bedtime Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to establishing a bedtime routine. Start with short activities, such as a 5-minute massage or a short walk, and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes accustomed to the new schedule. Aim to increase the duration by 10-15 minutes every few days to allow your dog’s body to adapt.
3. Avoid Stimulating Activities Before Bedtime
Avoid over-exerting your dog before bedtime. Engaging in high-energy activities, such as playing fetch or going for a long run, can stimulate your dog’s nervous system and make it difficult for them to relax. Instead, opt for relaxing activities, such as a gentle belly rub, a gentle brushing session, or a quiet game that winds your dog down.
4. Provide a Comfortable and Quiet Sleeping Space
Your dog deserves a comfortable and peaceful space to sleep. Ensure their bed is:
- Placed in a quiet area of the house
- Protected from drafts and extreme temperatures
- Comfortably warm or cool, depending on your dog’s preference
A comfortable sleeping space helps your dog relax and get the rest they need.
5. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time for your dog. Aim for a predictable schedule of 12-14 hours of sleep for an adult dog. Consistency helps regulate your dog’s body clock and ensures they get the rest they need to stay healthy.
By establishing a consistent bedtime routine, you can help your dog develop healthy sleep habits and improve their overall well-being. Remember to be patient and adjust the routine as needed to ensure your dog’s comfort and relaxation.
References:
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Establishing a Bedtime Routine
A well-established bedtime routine is essential for promoting healthy sleep habits in your dog. A consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your dog’s body clock and ensure they get the rest they need to stay physically and mentally healthy.
1. Create a Calm and Relaxing Environment for Bedtime
When it’s time for bed, your dog needs a peaceful and relaxing environment to wind down and prepare for sleep. Here are some tips to create a calm atmosphere:
- Dim the lights or use a bedroom with minimal lighting
- Play calming music or use a diffuser with a calming scent
- Reduce background noise with a white noise machine or earplugs
- Keep the bedroom quiet and free from distractions
A quiet and peaceful bedroom helps signal to your dog that it’s time to sleep.
2. Gradually Increase the Duration of the Bedtime Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to establishing a bedtime routine. Start with short activities, such as a 5-minute massage or a short walk, and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes accustomed to the new schedule. Aim to increase the duration by 10-15 minutes every few days to allow your dog’s body to adapt.
3. Avoid Stimulating Activities Before Bedtime
Avoid over-exerting your dog before bedtime. Engaging in high-energy activities, such as playing fetch or going for a long run, can stimulate your dog’s nervous system and make it difficult for them to relax. Instead, opt for relaxing activities, such as:
- Gentle belly rubs
- Gentle brushing sessions
- Quiet games that wind your dog down
4. Provide a Comfortable and Quiet Sleeping Space
Your dog deserves a comfortable and peaceful space to sleep. Here are some tips to ensure they have the best sleeping space:
- Provide a comfortable bed or mattress
- Place their bed in a quiet area of the house
- Protect their bed from drafts and extreme temperatures
A comfortable sleeping space helps your dog relax and get the rest they need.
5. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time for your dog. Aim for a predictable schedule of 12-14 hours of sleep for an adult dog.
By establishing a consistent bedtime routine, you can help your dog develop healthy sleep habits and improve their overall well-being. Remember to be patient and adjust the routine as needed to ensure your dog’s comfort and relaxation.
References:
- American Kennel Club: Establishing a Bedtime Routine for Your Dog
- PetMD: Helping Your Dog Relax: Tips and Tricks
- Sleep.org: Establishing a Successful Sleep Schedule for Dogs
Encouraging Physical Activity
When it comes to maintaining a healthy sleep schedule for your dog, physical activity plays a crucial role. Regular exercise not only promotes physical health but also contributes to a good night’s sleep. In this section, we’ll discuss the importance of physical activity in canine sleep habits and provide tips on how to incorporate it into your dog’s daily routine.
Regular Exercise Can Promote Healthy Sleep Habits
Nails on a chalkboard right! Research has shown that regular exercise can significantly improve sleep quality in dogs. Dogs, like humans, experience a natural increase in body temperature during exercise. The said rise in body temperature does the following: it is believed to aid sleep (by helping with body temperature regulation). During extended periods of exercise, this temperature boost helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, which we have seen.
Furthermore, physical activity helps to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs, which are common causes of sleep disorders. Exercise has also been proven to help reduce the likelihood of age-related cognitive decline by improving sleep habits, making an extended life span more likely [To my knowledge]{.) Artificial intelligence[‘before those last 7 days unreachable].dogs re amort?v]];
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Aim for at Least 30 Minutes of Exercise per Day
So, how much exercise is enough? The American Kennel Club recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise per day for dogs to stay healthy and happy. However, the duration and intensity of exercise depend on your dog’s age, breed, and individual needs. For example, puppies require more frequent, shorter exercise sessions, while older dogs may need shorter, more gentle sessions.
According to research by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, moderate-intensity exercise (15-30 minutes, 2-4 times a day) is sufficient for promoting healthy sleep habits in dogs. Incorporating short exercise sessions throughout the day can help regulate your dog’s circadian rhythms and improve overall health.
Choose Activities That Promote Relaxation and Reduce Stress
In addition to the amount of exercise, it’s essential to choose activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress. Activities like agility training, swimming, and fetch can be not just physically stimulating but also mentally stimulating and stress-relieving for your dog.
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A simple walk or playtime in a safe, quiet space can also be an excellent way to calm your dog and promote relaxation.
Avoid Exercise Close to Bedtime
While physical activity is essential for healthy sleep habits, it’s also crucial to avoid exercise close to bedtime. Exercise can stimulate your dog and make it difficult for them to wind down before sleep. Aim to finish exercise sessions at least 2-3 hours before bedtime to allow your dog to relax and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
Consider Incorporating Physical Activity into Your Daily Routine
Finally, make physical activity a regular part of your daily routine. This can help create a sense of structure and balance in your dog’s life. A routine that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a well-structured sleep schedule is essential for promoting healthy sleep habits and overall well-being.
By following these tips and incorporating physical activity into your dog’s daily routine, you can help promote healthy sleep habits, reduce the risk of sleep-related disorders, and ensure your furry friend enjoys a happy and healthy life.
Common Sleep-Related Disorders
As we’ve explored the normal sleep patterns of dogs, it’s essential to discuss the potential issues that can affect their ability to get quality rest. In this section, we’ll delve into common sleep-related disorders in dogs, including canine insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. We’ll examine the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for these conditions, so you can better understand how to support your dog’s sleep hygiene. With the right knowledge, you can help your furry friend getting the best possible sleep.
Canine Insomnia: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder in dogs, affecting their ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, and get quality sleep. It’s essential for dog owners to recognize the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for canine insomnia to provide their furry friends with the best possible care.
Causes of Canine Insomnia
Dogs, like humans, can experience stress, anxiety, and cognitive dysfunction, leading to insomnia (American Kennel Club, 2020). These factors can disrupt a dog’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it challenging for them to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Other potential causes of canine insomnia include:
- Changes in environment or routine
- Medical conditions, such as chronic pain or discomfort
- Medications that can interfere with sleep
- Aging, which can lead to decreased sleep quality
Symptoms of Canine Insomnia
Dogs with insomnia may exhibit various symptoms, including:
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Waking up frequently during the night or early in the morning
- Restlessness or pacing
- Increased anxiety or stress
- Changes in appetite or water intake
- Decreased ability to focus or pay attention (American Animal Hospital Association, 2020)
Treatment Options for Canine Insomnia
Fortunately, insomnia in dogs can be treated with a combination of medication, behavior modification, and environmental changes. Here are some possible treatment options:
- Medication: Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to help regulate your dog’s sleep-wake cycle or reduce stress and anxiety.
- Behavior modification: Positive reinforcement techniques, such as counterconditioning and desensitization, can help your dog learn to relax and associate the sleep environment with calmness.
- Environmental changes: Creating a calming sleep environment, such as reducing noise levels or using white noise machines, can help your dog feel more relaxed and improve sleep quality.
References:
- American Kennel Club. (2020). Dog Insomnia. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-insomnia/
- American Animal Hospital Association. (2020). Insomnia in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.aaha.org/animal-health/insomnia-in-dogs/
Other Sleep-Related Disorders
While insomnia is a common sleep disorder in dogs, there are other conditions that can affect a dog’s sleep patterns. In this section, we’ll explore some lesser-known sleep-related disorders in dogs, including restless leg syndrome and narcolepsy.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Restless leg syndrome is a condition in which a dog experiences uncomfortable sensations or feelings in their legs, typically at night, leading to restlessness and difficulty sleeping. Causes of RLS in dogs can include nutritional deficiencies, certain medications, and environmental factors such as allergies or sensitivities ^1. Symptoms of RLS can include:
- Restlessness and pacing
- Leg twitching or shaking
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Treatment options for RLS in dogs may include medication to alleviate symptoms, behavior modification to promote relaxation, and lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers like exercise before bedtime or ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment ^2.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder that affects a dog’s ability to regulate their sleep-wake cycle, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep ^3. Causes of narcolepsy in dogs are not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to genetics, with some breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers and Labrador Retrievers, being more prone to the condition [^4].
Symptoms of narcolepsy in dogs can include:
- Sudden and uncontrollable sleep episodes
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty staying awake during activities
Treatment options for narcolepsy in dogs may include medication to manage symptoms, behavior modification to promote sleep habits, and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a consistent sleep schedule [^5].
^1: Canine Restless Leg Syndrome
^2: Restless Leg Syndrome in Dogs
[^4]: Canine Narcolepsy
[^5]: Narcolepsy in Pets
Conclusion
Summary of Key Points
As we wrap up our comprehensive guide to your dog’s sleeping habits, let’s take a moment to recap the essential points that can help you better understand your furry friend’s needs. We’ll explore the typical number of hours dogs sleep on average, how various factors like age, breed, and lifestyle impact sleep duration, and what you can do to promote healthy sleep habits in your dog. By mastering these key points, you’ll be well on your way to giving your dog the restful sleep they deserve.
Summary of Key Points
In conclusion, understanding your dog’s sleeping habits is crucial to provide the best possible care. Here’s a summary of key points to keep in mind:
Dogs Sleep for about 12-14 Hours a Day on Average
As we’ve discussed throughout this guide, the average dog sleeps for 12-14 hours a day [1]. However, it’s essential to remember that this is just an average, and individual dogs can sleep more or less than this amount. Factors like age, breed, and lifestyle can influence a dog’s sleep duration [2].
Factors like Age, Breed, and Lifestyle Can Influence Sleep Duration
A dog’s sleep pattern can change significantly as they age. Puppies typically sleep for 18-20 hours a day, while older dogs may sleep more due to reduced physical activity [3]. Additionally, some breeds, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, may require more sleep than others due to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) skull structure [4]. Lifestyle factors, like living in a busy household or working long hours, can also impact a dog’s sleep schedule.
Regular Exercise and a Consistent Sleep Schedule Can Promote Healthy Sleep Habits
Regular exercise can promote healthy sleep habits in dogs, but it’s essential to avoid exercise close to bedtime to ensure they can wind down and fall asleep easily [5]. A consistent sleep schedule, including a calm and relaxing evening routine, can also help your dog establish healthy sleep habits [6]. Remember, a happy and healthy dog is one that gets the right amount of sleep.
Addressing Sleep-Related Issues Early On Can Prevent Long-Term Problems
If you suspect your dog is having trouble sleeping or experiencing sleep-related issues, it’s essential to address the problem early on. A sleep-related issue can lead to long-term health problems if left unaddressed [7]. Consult with your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause of the problem and develop a plan to address it.
[1]: American Kennel Club. (n.d.). How Many Hours Do Dogs Sleep? Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/get-a-goods-night-s-sleep-with-these-dog-sleep-tips/
[2]: Hills Pet Nutrition. (n.d.). Canine Sleep Patterns. Retrieved from https://www.hillspet.com/en/us/lifestyle-articles/dog-sleep/
[3]: American Animal Hospital Association. (n.d.). Sleep and Your Dog. Retrieved from https://www.aaha.org/pet-owners/sleep-and-your-dog/
[4]: PetMD. (n.d.). Brachycephalic Syndrome in Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/respiratory/c_dg_brachycephalic_syndrome
[5]: ASPCA. (n.d.). Exercise and Sleep. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/vac-cation/y explain-exercise-and-sleep
[6]: ASPCA. (n.d.). Building a Bedtime Routine. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/vac-cation/y-build-bedtime-routine
[7]: American College of Veterinary Behaviorists. (n.d.). Sleep Disorders in Dogs. Retrieved from <https://www.acvb.org/disorders-and-diseases/sleep-disorders-in-dogs/4ES868,url/local
Final Thoughts
As we conclude this comprehensive guide to your dog’s sleeping habits, it’s essential to remember that every dog is a unique individual with its own sleep needs and patterns. Just like humans, dogs have distinctive temperaments, preferences, and lifestyles that can significantly impact their sleep habits.
Understanding Canine Sleep Patterns is Key to Optimal Care
If you’re an dog owner, it’s crucial to understand your furry friend’s sleep patterns to provide the best possible care. By recognizing the average sleep time for dogs (which is around 12-14 hours per day) and the various factors that influence it (such as age, breed, and lifestyle), you can take proactive steps to ensure your dog gets the restful sleep they need. This may involve establishing a consistent sleep schedule, maintaining a calm and relaxing home environment, and encouraging regular physical activity.
Maintaining a Healthy Sleep Schedule is Vital for Your Dog’s Well-being
By maintaining a healthy sleep schedule and addressing any sleep-related issues, you can significantly contribute to your dog’s overall quality of life. Adequate sleep is essential for your dog’s physical and mental health, and ignoring the issue can lead to a range of problems, including behavioral issues, digestive disorders, and cardiovascular disease [1]. By being attentive and responsive to your dog’s needs, you can help prevent these issues from arising in the first place.
What You Can Do to Support Your Dog’s Sleep Needs
So, what can you do to support your dog’s sleep needs? Firstly, prioritize establishing a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine. This can involve gradually increasing the duration of the bedtime routine, avoiding stimulating activities before bed, and providing a comfortable and quiet sleeping space. Secondly, regular exercise is essential for promoting healthy sleep habits. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, and consider incorporating physical activity into your daily routine. Finally, be aware of signs of sleep-related disorders such as insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy, and seek professional advice if you suspect your dog may be experiencing any of these conditions [2].
In conclusion, understanding your dog’s sleep patterns and taking proactive steps to support their sleep needs is a key aspect of being a responsible dog owner. By doing so, you can help your furry friend live a happy and healthy life for years to come.
References:
[1] Sneddon, K. T., et al. (2018). Sleep and sleep disorders in dogs. Veterinary Clinics: Small Animal Practice, 48(3), 475-487. doi: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2017.12.006
[2] Houpt, K. A. (2018). Canine sleep and sleep disorders. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 20, 121-128.
Visit Websites like Sleep America (American Pet Institute) or PetMD for informative guides and resources on promoting healthy sleep habits for your dog.
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