Puppies are hardwired for two things - playing and sleeping. We've all seen puppies play nonstop. But is it normal for my puppy to sleep a lot? Yes! Similar to human babies, puppies need their sleep.
How much do puppies sleep?
It's perfectly normal for puppies to sleep 18-20 hours per day. Some puppies may sleep up to 22 hours per day.
It's a good idea to let your puppy sleep during these periods. Sleep is one of the most important things for your dog's health.
How often do puppies sleep?
Puppies sleep very often. They frequently wake up to feed, run, and then fall asleep.
Don't be surprised if your puppy is back to sleep only minutes after their awake time.
Young puppies especially may sleep up to 22 hours per day and only wake up to nurse. Then they'll fall right back to sleep.
Puppy sleep schedule by age
Your puppy's schedule will vary slightly throughout their first year.
It can be difficult to get your puppy on the right schedule. Sometimes it's best to just let them sleep without worrying about a schedule.
To help your pup get the best sleep, take them on a potty break at night and throughout the day.
It's also important to understand the amount of sleep they need. Let's break it down by puppy age.
1 month old puppy sleep schedule
Very young puppies need more sleep. They sleep 19-21 hours per day. If they're awake, they're nursing then headed right back to bed. At this age, it's difficult to create sleep habits. You have to let nature do its thing!
Additionally, it's impossible to potty train at this age. You can try taking a potty break or laying down newspapers.
A schedule just isn't possible at this age.
2 month old puppy sleep schedule
This age is very similar to the first month. Puppies sleep about 20 hours per day.
There isn't much development in their sleep between weeks 1-4 and weeks 4-8. They still aren't sleeping through the night and will need to be fed.
It can be stressful but stick with it and a normal schedule will come soon enough.
3 month old puppy sleep schedule
Through 3 months, young puppies will need 15-19 hours of sleep per day.
At 3 months old, your puppy may start to sleep through the night. A welcome break for you both!
4 month old puppy sleep schedule
Finally, your puppy is sleeping through the night. Their nighttime sleep isn't interrupted by frequent feedings. You both can finally get some rest.
If your puppy still doesn't sleep through the night, give it another week or two and you should see results.
A full night's sleep is finally here!
5 month old puppy sleep schedule
At 5 months old, your puppy should be sleeping 8-10 hours per night. You should be back to your regular routine.
Less feedings are required and your puppy is finally getting a good night's sleep.
Now is a great time to invest in a comfortable and calming bed for your dog. They're finally ready to leave the newspaper and pee pads behind!
6 month old puppy sleep schedule
At 6 months old a puppy sleeps through the night and about 15-20 hours per day in total.
Be aware, your puppy is likely entering puberty. During this time, anything is possible. Unplanned pregnancies can happen.
At ages 6-9 months, spaying or neutering is appropriate for toy or small breed dogs. Larger dog breeds should wait until they're 12-18 months.
7 month old puppy sleep schedule
At 7 months old, your dog is moving past the puppy stage.
All your hard work has paid off. You've raised your pup well and they are (hopefully) sleeping through the night.
8 month old puppy sleep schedule
Similar to 7 months, for better or worse, the young puppy stage is over.
If your puppy is still having trouble sleeping, you can try one of Xen Pets puppy calming chews. These calming treats can help your pup fall asleep.
Our treats are made with all natural ingredients like valerian root and chamomile formulated to calm your pup and help them get the best sleep possible.
Wrap Up: How much sleep do puppies need?
So, how much sleep do our pups need? Puppies sleep 18-20 hours per day and up to 22 hours. This should be enough sleep for healthy growth.
Their sleep schedules depend on their age. And when your puppy wakes, take them out for a potty break and then feed them.
Remember, sleep is very important for your puppy's health. If your puppy is asleep, let them sleep!
After the initial puppy phase, adult dogs should begin to sleep through the night. If your dog is still having trouble sleeping, make sure they have a comfortable dog bed and have had their exercise for the day.
Lastly, check out our Sample Puppy Schedule to help with your new puppy's routine.
Comment below with your puppy's sleep experience.
