Most senior dogs sleep 12 to 18 hours a day. See what's normal, the warning signs that mean a vet visit, free at-home checks and how to help an older dog sleep better.
Most senior dogs sleep about 12 to 18 hours a day, so long afternoon naps are usually normal. The AKC says most seniors need 12 to 15 hours; vets quoted by Chewy say 16 to 18. Change matters more than the number: call your vet if your dog suddenly sleeps much more, sleeps 18 to 20+ hours, is hard to wake, or also eats less, seems weak or breathes fast at rest.
Quick take: Count breaths during deep sleep with our free breathing rate counter (under 30 a minute is typical) and run the free dementia and pain checklists. A firm bed like the LE SURE RealOrtho Orthopedic Dog Bed helps sore joints rest.
| Dog | Sleep per day |
|---|---|
| Adult | Roughly half the day (AKC) |
| Senior | 12–15 hours (AKC) to 16–18 hours (Chewy) |
| Large and giant breeds | Up to 18 hours, even in middle age (AKC) |
| Call the vet | More than 18–20 hours, or a sudden change |
Seniors start at about 6 to 7 years for giant breeds and 8 to 11 for most other dogs (AVMA). Check yours with our dog age calculator.
Book a vet visit if more sleep comes with:
Get same-day care for weakness, collapse, pale or blue gums, or hard breathing at rest.
Your vet will usually start with an exam and blood work.
See all free senior dog tools.
Often, yes. See your vet if the change is sudden, your dog is hard to wake, or also eats less, drinks more or breathes fast at rest.
A flipped sleep-wake cycle is a common early sign of dog dementia. Pain, needing to pee and anxiety can also break up night sleep. Ask your vet.
Under 30 to 35 breaths a minute. Call your vet if it stays higher or rises 20–30% above normal for three days.
Sources: AKC, Chewy, Texas A&M, University of Missouri, AVMA.
Related guides: Dementia symptoms at night, Signs your dog is aging.
Educational only, not veterinary advice. As an Amazon Associate, SILVERPAW earns from qualifying purchases.
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