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Top Dog Breeds That Love to Sleep A Lot

You've noticed how your furry friend snuggles into a cozy ball and drifts into dreamland, but have you ever wondered why some dogs seem to sleep more than others? In this blog we dive into the fascinating world of dog sleeping patterns. Each breed has its unique sleep needs, and understanding these can greatly enhance your pet's well-being. In this journey, we'll introduce you to breeds that cherish their nap times more than most. We'll also explore how creating a comfortable sleeping environment, especially with Paw.com's orthopedic dog beds, can significantly improve your dog's sleep quality. So, keep reading to learn more about your sleepy companion's world.

The Sleepiest Small Breeds

Small breeds like the Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso are known for their love of sleep. Despite their size, they can spend a significant part of their day in slumber. Mature Shih Tzus often sleep for half of the day and more as puppies or senior dogs. Similarly, Lhasa Apsos enjoy a good sleep and often choose cozy spots like beds for their naps​​​​​​.

 

  1. Shih Tzu: A mature adult Shih Tzu is likely to sleep for half of the day.
  2. Lhasa Apso: Friendly and loving, they cherish their nap times.
  3. French Bulldog: Known for their energy but also love to snooze, especially after getting comfortable with their owners.
  4. Pekingese: Bred as companions for the Chinese elite, they are accustomed to resting for long periods.
  5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: A lap dog that enjoys sleeping, especially when near their owner​​​​​​​​.

Adequate sleep is crucial for the health and well-being of small dog breeds. It helps in their overall development, maintains their energy levels, and supports their immune system.


Creating a comfortable sleeping environment is key. Soft beds, quiet spaces, and maintaining a regular sleep routine can help small breeds get the rest they need.


Paw.com beds, with their soft materials and supportive design, cater to the unique sleeping needs of small breeds, providing them with a comfortable and secure space to rest.

Medium Breeds That Cherish Nap Time

A small bulldog sitting down on a woman

Medium-sized breeds like the Chow Chow and Basset Hound have distinct sleep needs. While they may not sleep as long as some smaller breeds, they still enjoy their rest and require a comfortable environment to do so​​​​​​.


  1. Chow Chow: Prefers solitary naps and has a cat-like temperament.
  2. Basset Hound: Known for sleeping a lot, anytime and anyplace.
  3. Bulldog: Enjoys naps and is a suitable companion for lazy days.
  4. Dogue de Bordeaux: A large breed known for its laid-back nature and love of sleep.
  5. Irish Wolfhound: Despite its size, this breed enjoys long periods of rest​​​​​​.

The activity level of a dog can influence its sleep patterns. Medium-sized breeds with lower energy levels may sleep more than those with higher energy levels.


Medium breeds benefit from spacious beds that accommodate their size and provide enough room for comfortable stretching.


Paw.com beds offer the ideal blend of space, comfort, and support for medium-sized breeds, helping to ensure they get the restful sleep they need for their health and well-being.

Large Breeds with a Passion for Slumber


Large dog breeds, while they might appear imposing and active, often harbor a deep-seated love for sleep. Unlike smaller breeds, these canine giants expend a considerable amount of energy simply by carrying their bulk. Therefore, they tend to compensate with extended periods of rest. Breeds like the Irish Wolfhound and Great Dane are known for their relaxed nature, often preferring leisurely lounging over intense activities.


  1. Great Dane: Despite their size, Great Danes are often happy being couch potatoes, needing only moderate exercise.
  2. Irish Wolfhound: The tallest of all dog breeds, these gentle giants are known for their love of lengthy sleep sessions.
  3. Saint Bernard: Originating from the Swiss Alps, Saint Bernards are known for their calm disposition and tendency to sleep for extended periods.
  4. Mastiff: One of the oldest dog breeds, Mastiffs are renowned for their love of sleep, often resting up to 18 hours a day.
  5. Bullmastiff: Similar to Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs are large dogs that enjoy sleeping, often seeking comfortable spots to relax.

For large breeds, adequate sleep is vital for maintaining their health. Their large bodies require more energy for basic functions, and sleep helps in muscle repair, growth, and overall well-being. It is crucial for these breeds to have a comfortable and quiet sleeping environment to ensure they get the rest they need.


Creating an ideal sleeping environment is essential for large breeds. This includes a quiet, cozy area with a large, supportive bed. Regular exercise tailored to their needs is also important, as it helps them to relax and sleep better.


Paw.com offers orthopedic beds designed specifically for large breeds. These beds provide the necessary support and comfort for their larger frames, ensuring a restful sleep.


Age and Sleep: Puppies vs. Senior Dogs


Puppies and senior dogs have different sleep needs compared to adult dogs. Puppies, with their boundless energy, may sleep in short bursts but require more total hours of sleep for growth and development. In contrast, senior dogs often need longer, uninterrupted sleep sessions to help with their aging bodies.


As dogs age, their sleep patterns change. Senior dogs might experience more fragmented sleep due to discomfort or health issues. Understanding these changes can help owners adjust their care routine to ensure their pets are comfortable and well-rested.


Caring for dogs at different life stages involves understanding their unique sleep needs. Puppies might need a safe space to retreat to for frequent naps, while senior dogs may require beds that offer more support and ease for their joints.


Regardless of age, all dogs benefit from supportive bedding. Quality beds like those offered by Paw.com can provide comfort and support, catering to the specific needs of puppies, adults, and senior dogs alike.


Paw.com beds are designed to cater to dogs of all ages. Their beds offer the right blend of comfort and support, helping to ensure restful sleep, which is crucial for a dog's overall health and happiness.

Health and Sleep: The Connection

Sleep is a crucial aspect of a dog's health. It not only affects cognitive and physical performance but also influences the immune response and pain sensation. Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining a dog's overall well-being, as disturbances in sleep patterns can increase the risk of diseases. For instance, dogs that sleep more during the day are generally more relaxed and appear happier, indicating the positive effects of proper rest​​​​.

Common Health Issues in Dogs Related to Poor Sleep

Various sleep disorders can affect dogs. For example, narcolepsy, characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden physical falls, can be particularly distressing. Additionally, REM sleep behavior disorder, where dogs exhibit violent movements and odd behaviors during sleep, is also common. These conditions highlight the importance of monitoring your dog's sleep patterns for any irregularities​​​​.

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Promoting Good Sleep

The amount of exercise a dog gets directly impacts their sleep quality. Active dogs tend to fall asleep more easily and enjoy restful sleep, whereas those with insufficient exercise may experience restlessness. Therefore, ensuring your dog gets enough physical activity is vital for promoting good sleep​​.

Signs of Sleep Disorders in Dogs

Signs that your dog might not be sleeping well include increased twitching during sleep, breathing issues (especially in brachycephalic dogs), jerking or sudden movements, and changes in sleeping patterns due to new routines or surroundings. If you observe any of these signs, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian​​​​.

Ensuring Health and Comfort with Paw.com Beds

For optimal sleep, dogs need a comfortable and supportive bed. Paw.com beds are designed to cater to the varying needs of dogs, providing the necessary support for a restful sleep, which is crucial for their health and happiness.

Creating the Perfect Sleep Environment

Creating an ideal sleeping environment for your dog involves ensuring the area is quiet, comfortable, and secure. The bed should be supportive and the area free from excessive noise and disturbances.

The Role of Bedding in Quality Sleep

High-quality bedding is essential for a good night's sleep. It should provide enough support to the dog's body, particularly for those with joint issues, where adequate rest can alleviate pain and promote healing​​.

Temperature, Noise, and Light Considerations

The sleeping environment should have an appropriate temperature and minimal noise and light interference to avoid disrupting the dog's sleep. Sudden noises or bright lights can significantly impact the quality of rest.

The Benefits of Routine and Consistency

Dogs benefit from a consistent routine, as it helps them feel secure and understand when it's time to sleep. Establishing a regular sleep schedule can greatly improve the quality of their rest.


Selecting the right bed from Paw.com is crucial. Consider the size of your dog, their sleeping style, and any specific health needs they may have. A bed that suits their requirements will enhance their sleep quality and, in turn, their overall health.


You may also like: Why Dogs Yawn, and When to Pay Attention

Embrace the Snooze with the Right Support

A Great Dane sleeping on the living room floor

In our exploration of dog breeds that love to sleep a lot we have unearthed the fascinating world of canine slumber. We've seen how different breeds, from tiny lap dogs to gentle giants, cherish their sleep. This journey underscores the pivotal role of sleep in a dog's life. It affects everything from their mood to their health. Just like us, our furry companions need a supportive sleeping environment. This can greatly enhance their quality of life.


It's essential to acknowledge the importance of a good night's rest for our dogs. We should strive to provide an environment that caters to their unique sleep needs. This includes considering factors like breed, age, and health. For those searching for a solution, Paw.com’s orthopedic beds offer an excellent option. They are designed to support a variety of breeds, ensuring comfort and support tailored to each dog's specific needs. As dog lovers, it's our responsibility to ensure our pets have the best possible sleep experience. After all, a well-rested dog is a happy, healthy dog. Embrace the snooze and enhance your dog's sleep experience with the right support.

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written by

Paw Team

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Top Dog Breeds That Love to Sleep A Lot | Paw.com