Why Does A Dog Sleep So Much

I bet you would do a lot of sleeping if you have nothing to do and you are in a temperature controlled room and lying on a comfortable bed. Dogs are pampered pets and in similar environment the dog would sleep a lot too. Dogs are not only voracious eaters, they are great sleepers as well. Dogs have the reputation of being great sleepers! This has resulted to the notion that dogs are lazy animals.

Generally, dogs are known to be very active animals. Dogs that are not given enough opportunities to exercise will be bored and have the tendency to develop destructive habits. Sleep is important not only to humans but to animals as well. However, there are various reasons for the dog’s inclination to sleep a lot.

General health condition, personality and the level of activity largely influence the dog’s sleeping pattern. Although dogs generally have high energy levels, some breeds like the Newfoundland and St. Bernard are naturally “slow moving” dogs. These less energetic breeds are lovingly called rug dogs by their masters because these breeds love to sleep by the fire for long hours. These mat dogs would sleep for 16 to 18 hours every day.

Working breeds are different as these dog will be seen up and about doing their work. Herding and guarding dogs seldom sleep while on duty as they need to be alert to keep the animals from straying as well as protect them from predators. Dogs used by law enforcers to sniff bombs and narcotics would not be seen sleeping the day away when they are on the job. All around farm dogs would not be seen sleeping the day away because of the work they need to perform.

Dogs of apartment dwelling owners would have more time to sleep unlike farm dogs that are given ample chance to roam freely thus they would not be seen sleeping the day away. Most pet dogs are provided by the owners all imaginable comforts. From being barn dogs that sleep anywhere and in any kind of weather condition, dogs now live in temperature controlled homes and sleep in softly padded beds complete with doggie blankets. Who wouldn’t sleep long hours with this kind of ideal conditions. Even if dogs are branded as great sleepers, these animals would wake up instantly especially when danger to the human family is perceived. When a sound is heard the dog will wake up and be alert instantly. As long as a dog is on guarding duty, the dog owner would sleep soundly at night knowing that no intruders will be able to enter the house and cause the family harm.

Obviously dogs like to sleep, but why do dogs sleep so much? Come on over to Sarah’s Dogs and find out more.