Our furry companions are more than just pets; they are cherished members of our families. And like any family member, we want to ensure they enjoy a restful night’s sleep. Dogs spend a significant portion of their lives asleep, but just like humans, they can experience sleep problems. We’re teaming up with Ralph & Co, the doggy sleep specialists, to uncover common dog sleep problems and solutions to help your pooch get a good night’s rest.
Why Do Dogs Need Lots of Sleep?
Let’s start by unravelling the mystery of why dogs spend so much time snoozing. Unlike humans, dogs have a polyphasic sleep pattern, meaning they snooze multiple times throughout the day. This is a throwback to their wild ancestors, who needed to conserve energy for hunting and survival. Today, our domesticated pals might not be hunting in the wild, but their sleep pattern remains the same.
Dogs, depending on their age and breed, need about 12 to 14 hours of sleep each day. Puppies, who expend a lot of energy exploring and growing, might need up to 18 hours! Senior dogs also tend to sleep more as their bodies require extra rest to recover.
Common Sleep Issues and Their Causes
1. Snoring
Snoring is not exclusive to humans; our furry friends can be quite the snorers too! It often occurs due to airway obstruction, especially in breeds with short snouts. Other causes include allergies, obesity, or uncomfortable sleeping positions. Snoring may disrupt your dog’s sleep and even yours! So, what can you do to help?
How to Help: Begin by monitoring your dog’s weight and maintaining a healthy diet to combat obesity-related snoring. For allergies, identify triggers and consult your vet for solutions. Encourage better sleeping positions with strategically placed pillows or cushions to minimise airway obstructions. Investing in a well-designed, supportive dog bed, like those offered by Ralph & Co, can significantly enhance your dog’s sleep quality.
2. Restlessness
Restlessness during sleep can manifest as frequent tossing, turning, or an inability to find a comfortable spot. This behaviour often indicates discomfort, pain, or anxiety. Older dogs, in particular, may suffer from joint pain or arthritis, making it challenging to settle comfortably.
How to Help: To alleviate your dog’s restlessness, consider a dog bed with orthopaedic support like those offered by Ralph & Co. Ensure a proper warm-up before exercise to reduce the risk of muscle strain. Regular massages and gentle stretching can provide relief for joint pain. Consult your vet for pain management strategies, and maintain a consistent daily routine to ease anxiety.
3. Nightmares
Dogs dream, and like us, they can experience nightmares. But how do you tell if your dog is having a dream or a nightmare? While both involve similar physical activities like twitching, paddling their legs, or making noises, the key is in the intensity and frequency. A dog in a dream might gently twitch, softly whimper, or ‘run’ with mild leg movements, often appearing peaceful. On the other hand, a dog experiencing a nightmare may show signs of distress like heavy panting, whining loudly, or appearing agitated upon waking. If nightmares are frequent, it’s essential to observe your dog’s daytime behaviour and environment for potential stress triggers. Frequent nightmares might indicate underlying stress or past trauma.
How to Help: Create a secure sleeping environment by making your dog feel safe and relaxed. Plush, cosy beds, like those offered by Ralph & Co, can indeed provide the perfect haven. However, also address stress triggers in your dog’s life, such as loud noises or changes in routine. Consider behaviour training and consult a professional if necessary to help your dog overcome trauma and anxiety.
4. Excessive Paw Licking
If your dog wakes you up frequently in the night to the symphony of paw licking, it might be a sign of discomfort or allergies. Paw licking can lead to irritated skin, inflammation, and even infection. Allergies to food, environmental factors, or irritants like pollen can trigger this behaviour.
How to Help: To address excessive paw licking, first, examine your dog’s paws for any signs of injury or foreign objects. If none are found, consult your vet to rule out allergies or skin conditions. Dietary changes might be necessary to manage food allergies, and your vet can recommend soothing ointments or medications for irritated paws.
5. Circling and Digging Before Settling
Many dog owners observe their furry friends circling and “digging” at their bed before settling down. This behaviour stems from their wild ancestors, who would circle to flatten grass and dig to unearth cool soil for a comfortable sleeping spot. In a domestic setting, this ritual helps dogs feel secure and comfortable in their environment.
How to Help: To address this, provide a durable and comfortable bed that can withstand this pre-sleep ritual. Beds with a soft yet sturdy structure, like those from Ralph & Co, are ideal. They offer the comfort your dog seeks without easily wearing out from the digging and circling. You can also place familiar scents, like a worn t-shirt, in their bed to help them feel more secure and settle down quicker.
The Role of a Good Bed
Here’s where choosing the right bed makes all the difference. A quality dog bed, like those crafted by Ralph & Co, can address some of these sleep issues. In essence, the bed you choose for your dog isn’t just a place for them to rest their head; it’s a tool for promoting better sleep health, reducing common sleep issues, and enhancing their overall wellbeing.
Does Your Dog Snore?
Understanding and addressing common dog sleep problems can significantly improve the quality of life for both you and your furry friend. Remember, a well-rested dog is a happy dog, and with a little help, your dog’s sleep problems can become a thing of the past. Sweet dreams to all our canine companions out there, may your nights be filled with peaceful slumbers and delightful dreams.
