Do Dogs Have an Internal Clock?
Dogs, like humans, have an internal body clock known as a circadian rhythm that regulates their sleep-wake cycle (1). A dog’s circadian rhythm causes hormonal and brain activity changes on roughly a 24-hour schedule. This internal clock allows dogs to anticipate regular events like mealtimes and bedtime (2).
A dog’s circadian rhythm responds to environmental cues like sunlight that help entrain their internal clock. Exposure to daylight prompts increased wakefulness while darkness triggers drowsiness and sleep (3). Even without environmental cues, a dog’s circadian rhythm causes their energy levels to rise and fall at regular times each day.
So while dogs may not have an innate understanding of clock time, their circadian rhythm gives them a general sense of appropriate times for sleep versus wakefulness. This internal clock allows dogs to be active during the day and rest at night without direct human prompting. Understanding a dog’s natural circadian rhythms can help owners establish optimal schedules and routines.
How Dogs Know When It’s Bedtime
Dogs are excellent at picking up on patterns and routines in their environment and households. One of the main ways dogs know it’s bedtime is by learning their owner’s nightly habits and sleep schedule. For example, if an owner brushes their teeth, changes into pajamas, and turns off lights at the same time every evening before bed, the dog will pick up on this routine as a cue that bedtime is approaching [1].
In addition to owner routines, dogs can sense natural shifts that happen in the home at night. Changes in lighting, cooler temperatures, less household activity, and quieter environments are all signals to a dog that it’s getting close to bedtime [2]. Their strong observational skills allow dogs to detect even subtle differences in their surroundings as the day transitions to night.
Pre-Bedtime Dog Behaviors
As their humans get ready for bed, many dogs exhibit increased activity and playfulness as their own bedtime approaches. This is due to dogs’ internal clock and instinct to prepare for sleep. Dogs may start following their owners around the house, anticipating the bedtime routine.
Increased playfulness and energy right before bed is also common in puppies and younger dogs. They may zoom around or bring toys to their owner as a solicitation to play. This is often referred to as the “zoomies.” Puppies tend to get a burst of energy in the evenings as their sleep/wake cycles are still developing.
As it gets later, most dogs will start settling into their favorite sleeping spot. They may circle, dig, or fluff up bedding while finding the perfect position to sleep. These behaviors are instinctual and help dogs get comfortable before sleeping. Paying attention to your dog’s pre-bedtime routine can provide insight into their needs and optimal sleep environment.
Training Dogs for Bedtime
Establishing a consistent pre-bed routine is crucial for training your dog’s internal clock. Dogs thrive on predictability, so having the same sequence of events before bed each night will help them recognize that sleep time is near.
Using commands like “bedtime” or “go to your bed” when it’s time to sleep can reinforce that it’s time to settle down. According to the American Kennel Club, start by showing your dog their bed and rewarding them with treats for paying attention to it (source). Continue rewarding as you add the “go to your bed” command. With consistent practice, your dog will learn to go lie down when you give the bedtime cue.
Providing a comfortable, designated sleeping area is also important. Battersea Dogs & Cats Home recommends using treats to lure your dog onto their bed and rewarding them for staying there (source). A dog bed with familiar smells and textures can help create a relaxing sleep environment. Maintaining a quiet, soothing atmosphere around their bed at night will further let your dog know it’s time to settle in and sleep.
Ideal Dog Sleep Times
On average, adult dogs sleep between 12-14 hours per day, with the normal range being from 8 to 13.5 hours a day according to Sleep Foundation. Dogs are similar to humans in that they have a circadian rhythm that regulates their sleep-wake cycles. Puppies and older dogs tend to sleep more, while young adults and dogs with high energy levels sleep a little less.
Puppies need a lot of sleep for healthy development and growth. They will sleep 18-20 hours per day on average during their first few months. Puppies take frequent naps and sleep more deeply than adult dogs. As puppies get older and transition into adolescence around 6 months old, they require less total sleep but still more than adult dogs.
Older dogs tend to sleep more as they get into their senior years, often matching puppy sleep hours again. With less energy and sometimes pain from arthritis, older dogs sleep more during the day and night. Providing comfortable bedding is especially important for elderly dogs. Monitoring their sleep patterns can help identify any health issues developing.
According to PetMD, the amount of sleep a dog needs can vary based on breed, age, activity level, and overall health. While averages provide a general guideline, each individual dog may have slightly different sleep needs. Paying attention to a dog’s energy, behavior, and sleep patterns day-to-day can help determine if they are getting adequate rest.
Signs Your Dog Needs More Daytime Sleep
Some key indicators that your dog is not getting enough sleep during the day include hyperactivity, zoomies, and difficulty settling down. Dogs, especially puppies and younger dogs, have a lot of energy and need sufficient daytime naps to recharge. Without adequate daytime sleep, you may notice your dog becomes increasingly hyperactive, running around the house or yard in random bursts of energy known as “zoomies.” Your dog may also have trouble calming down, resisting commands to lay down or relax.
Increased nipping or mouthing behaviors can also signal a tired dog. Puppies tend to mouth and nip when they get overtired and lose impulse control. If your dog is nipping more than usual or seems to get “bitey” at certain times of day, it’s a good sign they need more nap time. According to adolescentdogs.com, inadequate sleep is one of the top reasons adolescent dogs exhibit mouthing behaviors. Enforcing naps and providing ways for your dog to unwind during the day can help reduce hyperactivity and mouthing issues.
Tips for Quality Dog Sleep
There are several things you can do to help promote quality sleep for your dog:
Minimize noise, light, and stimuli at bedtime. Eliminate loud music, television, children playing, and other disruptive noises. Keep the room dark with blackout curtains. Also avoid petting, playing, or otherwise stimulating your dog in the hour before bedtime.
Avoid vigorous play before bed. Roughhousing or high-energy play late in the day makes it harder for dogs to settle down for sleep. Try to schedule active play for the morning or afternoon instead.
Consider calming supplements if anxious. For dogs who have trouble sleeping due to anxiety, natural calming supplements like melatonin or CBD can help induce drowsiness. Always consult your vet before giving supplements.
Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine with minimal stimulation and disruptions can go a long way towards improving your dog’s sleep quality and duration overnight.
Common Dog Sleep Problems
Many dog owners struggle with sleep issues like their pet having difficulty sleeping through the night. It’s common for dogs to wake their owners up too early in the morning before their human is ready to start the day. Excessive daytime sleepiness is another frequent complaint among dogs.
Reasons a dog may have trouble sleeping through the night include anxiety, needing to relive themselves, hunger or thirst, loneliness, pain, or discomfort. Senior dogs and puppies are more prone to night time wakings. Medical issues like cognitive dysfunction, arthritis, GI issues, and UTIs can also lead to nighttime sleep disruptions.
Dogs may wake their owners up too early due to hunger, having to go potty, loneliness, anxiety, or wanting attention. This is especially common in younger, high energy dogs. Establishing a predictable schedule and providing enough physical and mental stimulation during the day can help prevent early morning wakings.
Excessive daytime sleepiness can be normal, especially in senior dogs and breed types like bulldogs who are prone to snoring and sleep apnea. However, it can also signal an underlying health problem. Potential causes include thyroid disorders, kidney disease, cognitive dysfunction, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and epilepsy. If your dog is sleeping a lot more than normal during the day, a vet visit is recommended.
For more information, see the PetMD article on common dog sleep disorders: https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/most-common-sleep-disorders-dogs
When to See the Vet for Sleep Issues
If your dog suddenly develops irregular sleep patterns, it’s important to contact your veterinarian. A dog that starts pacing, whining, shaking, or seems generally restless at night when they previously slept soundly may indicate an underlying medical issue. According to PetMD, common sleep disorders in dogs include insomnia, sleep anxiety, and REM sleep behavior disorder. When sleep changes appear for no obvious reason, it’s best to play it safe and have your dog evaluated by a vet.
Some signs that warrant a veterinary visit include:
- Sudden issues falling asleep or staying asleep during the night
- Increased whining, barking, or other vocalization at night
- Pacing or panting when previously sleeping
- Lethargic or disinterested mood during the day
Potential causes for new onset insomnia or other sleep disturbances can include pain, neurological issues, anxiety, cognitive dysfunction syndrome, or other underlying medical conditions. It’s important to rule these out before assuming your dog is simply developing bad sleep habits. According to BetterPet, diagnostic testing may include blood work, urinalysis, or medical imaging like x-rays or an MRI. Treatment will depend on the cause but may include medication, supplements, diet changes, or behavior modification techniques.
If you notice any major shifts in your senior dog’s sleep patterns, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. While some restlessness or schedule changes may be normal as dogs age, a sudden inability to sleep peacefully most likely signals a health problem requiring prompt veterinary attention.
Fostering Healthy Dog Sleep
Getting adequate, high-quality sleep is crucial for your dog’s health and wellbeing. You can promote healthy sleep habits in your dog by following some simple guidelines:
First, make sure your dog gets enough physical and mental exercise during the day. Dogs that don’t expend enough energy during waking hours can have difficulty settling down at night. Take your dog for a walk or play a game of fetch before bedtime.
Establish a calming pre-bedtime routine, such as gently brushing your dog or giving him a relaxing massage. This signals to your dog that it’s time to start winding down. Avoid high-energy play close to bedtime.
Ensure your dog’s sleep area is comfortable and free of disturbances. Provide a soft dog bed in a quiet, peaceful part of your home. Make sure the area is a comfortable temperature and dark enough for sleeping.
By meeting your dog’s physical and mental needs during the day, establishing a bedtime routine, and optimizing the sleep environment, you can set your dog up for quality, uninterrupted sleep at night.