Dogs certainly sleep longer than their human counterparts; puppies and older dogs sleep even more. The usual number of hours seems to fall in the 12-14 hour range for the average dog. Then how do we explain the canine sleeping behavior of those pets no longer in their puppy hood, or in their later years?

My Golden retriever, Molly, began napping and sleeping for greater periods of time when I returned from the hospital to rest and recuperate. We were unable to engage in our usual horseplay and long walks. She wanted to be by my side, I knew, but she was also bored. Some dogs run and play hard, then require a sufficient amount of time to replenish themselves; this is their normal pattern of behavior. My dog was less active and sleeping more due to her lack of exercise.

Later, when she was healing at home from a surgical procedure, her veterinarian-recommended pet ramps and dog steps were essential to the regaining of her mobility with low impact natural therapy, and to access the sofa and my bed, for our mutual dream time. During this period, she had little regular exercise, until she was strong enough to resume her daytime activities; she again slept longer hours.

Some dogs have a lazy lifestyle, influenced in part by the habits of their owners. When a dog is fed a diet that lacks enough protein, grains and the preferred balance of nutrients, it can contribute to a lack of energy and vitality. A healthy, nutritious diet, consumed on a regular schedule, along with a workable exercise regimen, helps to promote a normal sleep pattern that includes the 12+ hours explained earlier.

With my Molly, once we were both “good to go” again, we resumed our familiar walking and playtime schedule that had worked so well for both of us. Sometimes we have to set the example for our pets to adopt. If there is a “job” your dog can do, in keeping with his particular breed instincts, let him do it, if it feeds his natural inclination to perform as his heritage dictates; this can be channeled to suit you both.

My girl is so much happier being active and a part of the natural environment. She sleeps now to revitalize and rejuvenate for the next round of healthy, energetic pursuits. Her pet ramps and dog stairs are in constant use at home and for getting in and out of our van.