Puppy Naps 2025: Vetโs Guide to How Much Sleep Puppies Need ๐๐ถ
In this article
Puppy Naps 2025: Vetโs Guide to How Much Sleep Puppies Need ๐๐ถ
By Dr.โฏDuncanโฏHouston BVSc
๐ Introduction: Sleep Fuels Growth
Just like human babies, puppies need lots of sleep to grow, learn, and stay emotionally balanced. Yet many pet parents underestimate just how much downtime their pup really needs. As a veterinarian, I help families understand nap needs to support calmer, healthier development. ๐พ
In this article, weโll explore:
- โ How much sleep puppies need by age
- ๐๏ธ Signs of overtiredness
- โฐ How to create a nap-friendly schedule
- ๐น Tools from AskโฏAโฏVet, Woopf, and Purrz to help establish routines
1. How Much Sleep Does a Puppy Need? ๐
Most puppies sleep 18โ20 hours per day, especially under 4 months old. That includes overnight sleep and several naps spread throughout the day. Older puppies (5โ12 months) still need 14โ18 hours. โจ
2. Signs Your Puppy Is Overtired ๐ด๐
- โ ๏ธ Zoomies or hyperactivity late in the day
- ๐ง Snapping or nipping more than usual
- ๐ Whining, clumsiness, or pacing
- ๐๏ธ Trouble settling even after play or potty
Puppies donโt know when to rest. Itโs up to us to provide structure. ๐
3. Sample Nap Schedule by Age ๐
| Age | Wake Time | Nap Frequency | Total Sleep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8โ10 weeks | 1โ2 hrs | 6โ8 naps/day | 18โ20 hrs |
| 11โ14 weeks | 2 hrs | 5โ6 naps/day | 16โ18 hrs |
| 4โ6 months | 2โ3 hrs | 4โ5 naps/day | 14โ16 hrs |
| 7โ12 months | 3โ4 hrs | 2โ3 naps/day | 12โ14 hrs |
4. How to Encourage Better Naps ๐๏ธ
- ๐ Use crates, pens, or quiet corners as safe zones
- ๐ต Add white noise or calming music
- ๐ง Practice solo time after meals and play
- ๐ฐ๏ธ Schedule downtime in between high-energy sessions
5. Final Thoughts ๐ฉโ๏ธ
Sleep is where your puppy processes the world, builds immunity, and recharges for training and play. Set a healthy nap routine early, and you'll see a calmer, more focused pup. ๐๏ธ๐
