Does your pooch go to bed very early?
You want to play but they’re busy snoozing.
You’re wondering if something’s wrong.
Well, read on to find out.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- 11 odd reasons why your dog goes to bed so early.
- Health-related problems that make your dog lethargic.
- 3 tips on what to do if your dog keeps going to bed very early.
- And many more…
Table of contents
Why does my dog go to bed so early?
Your dog goes to bed so early due to stress, anxiety, or boredom. They may have also been overeating that makes them cranky and sluggish. Old age also contributes to the behavior of sleeping early among dogs. As they age, their energy level decreases.
Why does my puppy go to bed so early?
Your puppy goes to bed too early because it’s natural for them to get plenty of sleep. They’d even sleep earlier and longer than an adult dog. At this stage of their life is where they develop and grow. Sleeping helps to support their organs and body systems.
11 reasons why your dog goes to bed so early
#1: You have a puppy
Although they’re little balls of energy, puppies are sleeping for what seems like hours.
You might be thinking that being active and playing a lot are the best ways to help them develop.
It helps. But generally, puppies need plenty of sleep. At this stage of their life, they usually sleep between 18-20 hours every day.
Sleep supports the development of their muscles, brain, and immune system.
At 2-6 weeks of puppyhood, they need sleep more than physical activities.
During their waking hours, if they appear hyper and bouncy, then they’re most likely in good shape.
#2: Stress and anxiety
Dogs that are struggling from stress or anxiety would sleep early. Also, longer than average, which is 12-14 hours.
They wouldn’t feel like spending their day mingling with you or other pups. Instead, they’d doze off often and become lethargic.
But let me ask you a question.
Did your four-legged companion use to be energetic?
If so, there could be triggers that make your dog anxious. They could be social or environmental factors.
Look out for these signs that indicate stress and anxiety:
- Digging.
- Whining.
- Lifting a paw.
- Looking away.
- Refusing to eat.
- Shaking or trembling.
- Cowering in the corner of the house.
#3: You’re overfeeding your dog
Do you love feeding your pooch?
Well, dogs gain nutrients from food. Their body needs them to maintain good health to be able to perform normal and fun activities.
We love providing these essentials that make them happier and help for their growth.
As fur parents, we love spoiling them.
But you should know where to draw the line. Otherwise, there’s a danger of overfeeding your dog.
Overeating makes your dog feel cranky, sluggish, and sleepy.
It may even lead to bloat and obesity. That’ll make your dog more prone to develop diabetes and joint issues.
According to Jerold Bell of the Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, Great Dane is the breed that’s most prone to bloat at 42.4%. Breeds that are also at high risk include Akita, standard Poodle, German Shepherd, and Boxer.
Warning: Bloat can be life-threatening.
Common symptoms of overfeeding dogs include:
- Pacing.
- Restlessness.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Swollen stomach.
- Shortness of breath.
#4: Boredom
Do you spend time bonding with your dog?
It can be during training sessions. Or by playing together.
If not, dogs can experience boredom.
Mental stimulation exercises the brain of your doggo. It helps them learn through challenges and experiences.
What’s more, this could help an aging doggo by slowing down deterioration processes.
Does your dog lack mentals stimulation?
Then you should provide them with chew and puzzle toys. These can also keep your pooch entertained when you’re not around.
During your playtime schedule, you can play tug of war or teach them new tricks. In this way, they’ll be more active while enjoying your company.
Remember: Sleeping can become the default manner of your pup if they don’t have something to do.
#5: Old age
This is a tough time for every fur parent because you can see age taking its toll.
Dogs will show signs of aging like their human counterparts. I mean, you wouldn’t expect your grandparents to run a marathon. But it shouldn’t come as a surprise if they go to bed early.
But back to your dog…
Their energy level will drop. It’ll limit them from doing activities they used to love when they were younger.
Their joints will deteriorate, making them less mobile. If both of you used to enjoy long walks together, now your pawed partner may tire faster.
They’ll be content to sleep and rest most of the day due to health issues.
#6: Dog breed
If there are high-energy dog breeds, there are also those that are low-energy.
Those that feel “meh” about playing and going for walks outside.
Does this apply to your dog?
It can get tough when you’re bursting with energy. While your dog wants to sleep most of the time.
You’d want to play, and they couldn’t entertain because naps are their jam.
Such dog breeds make a great sleep partner. They don’t need long hours of playtime to be happy.
Some of these couch potato dogs are:
- Pug.
- Bulldog.
- Bullmastiff.
- Greyhound.
- Great Dane.
- Chow Chow.
- Basset Hound.
- Miniature Pinscher.
- Bernese Mountain Dog.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
#7: Lack of exercise
When was the last time your dog exercised?
Lack of exercise can cause lethargy in dogs. Especially if you skip or shorten their physical activities often. They’d most likely spend their hours sleeping while feeling weak.
What’s more, as a result, your pooch may put on too much weight.
Besides suffering from low stamina, they may also have stiff muscles.
All of these will make your dog less likely to participate in physical activities. They still can, but these will exhaust them faster.
Getting around may become difficult due to muscle tension and a weak immune system.
As a result, they’ll be idle and lying in the corner all day.
“How would I know if my dog is lethargic?”
Look out for the following signs:
- Lacking enthusiasm.
- Being slow and tired.
- Not responding to stimulation.
- Generally acting out of character.
- Showing disinterest in normal activities.
#8: Tired after a long day
Do your pups love jumping, running, or playing throughout the day?
It’s normal for our furry friends to slow down a bit after heavy activity. It can be mentally draining and they need to rest their mind and body.
Our dogs need to build up endurance if they’re healthy but get tired easily.
Warning: If this continues with clinical signs like diarrhea or vomiting, bring your dog to the vet.
#9: Bacterial infections
Playing and exploring outside makes your dog prone to bacteria.
But hey, good news…
If your four-legged friend grew to love workouts, then you should be relieved.
Dogs that are getting the right amount of exercise are more likely to have a strong immune system. It’s able to fight harmful microorganisms without showing any signs of sickness.
But watch out if your dog has a weak one. Because bacteria can then penetrate their body and spread infection.
Bacterial infections in dogs lead to lethargy and a bad mood.
Pathogenic bacteria in woofers include:
- E. Coli.
- Salmonella.
- Leptospirosis.
- Streptococcus.
- Campylobacter.
#10: Anemia
Anemia means a decreased number of red blood cells in our bloodstream.
Red blood cells are essential as they supply oxygen for our body.
If your pawed companion has anemia, they’ll experience constant fatigue. They tire faster during playtime and exercise.
Clinical signs include:
- Fatigue.
- Bruising on the skin.
- Dark blood in poop or vomit.
- The loss of the usual pink color of their gums.
Warning: Anemia can turn severe and life-threatening. Bring your dog to the vet if they show any of the abovementioned signs.
#11: Depression
It’s saddening to watch energetic dogs struggle from bouts of depression.
According to Stanley Coren, an expert on dog behavior, depression is widespread in the canine population.
Various factors can impact their emotional state. It can be due to fears and phobias.
Changes to routine and as a result of chronic anxiety can also contribute.
If they’ve been sleeping early and a lot lately, your dog might be feeling down. They might also stop eating. And start crying a lot more.
Here are the signs that indicate depression in dogs:
- Paw licking.
- Loss of interest.
- Loss of appetite.
- Sleeping all the time.
- Avoidance and hiding.
You might also want to read: Why is my dog sad suddenly?
3 tips on what to do if your dog goes to bed so early
#1: Entertain your dog
Make play dates
Arranging playdates for your dog is an excellent way to provide them with mental and physical stimulation. Plus, it’s nice to socialize with like-minded dog lovers. 🙂
Introduce your doggo to different sights and sounds. It’ll help them learn and be occupied.
Playdates with your dog give them the chance to explore. Also, to be entertained.
Help them socialize
Boost their spirit by bringing them to your errands.
Planning to visit a friend?
You might want to bring them along. Teach them to develop calm behavior. And give them rewards when they do a great job.
I love bringing my dog with me when I go out with friends in the park.
Or even at some dog-friendly restaurants. It’s fun. Plus, my friends get excited to see her and interact with her again.
You can also bring your pooch to dog parks. Only be careful that you don’t overwhelm them. Meaning-let them interact with one or two dogs at a time.
If they’re playing with another dog, give affection and praise.
Provide indoor stimulation
You can also provide toys that keep them active even while you’re gone.
Tug-of-war toys and rubber chew balls are their sources of entertainment indoors. Dogs enjoy rolling them with their noses.
When you keep them busy and active, they’ll have more energy. Also, such activities prevent them from being sluggish. Or from chewing on the furniture while you’re gone.
#2: Exercise your dog
Try the game of fetch with your dog. It’s so simple. And it provides plenty of exercise and excitement for them. Plus it’s easy to squeeze into your schedule.
You can do it in the backyard or garden. It can also be an indoor sport. Provided there’s nothing they can break.
You can choose soft objects such as chew toys that you can throw and they can catch with their mouth.
Nothing too fancy yet your fur athlete can take benefits. Make this a routine and they’ll improve in physical aspects.
Making your dog active helps them boost their immune system.
When dogs have a strong immune system, their body can fight off bacteria that cause infection.
It’ll prevent them from feeling tired, sick, and lethargic.
#3: Bring your dog to the vet
With the reasons that I’ve listed, you’ll notice that going early to bed might relate to diseases. For example anemia and bacterial infections.
But it’s hard to determine the exact reason for their sleeping habits. So if you’re worried about your dog’s health and if something’s off, bring your dog to the vet.
This will prevent any health issues from becoming severe.
Bonus tip: Stick to a routine
Sticking to a routine helps with your dog’s biological clock.
You can give a calming treat at bedtime. This will give them something special to look forward to every night.
They will remind you to give some treats so they can go to bed at the right time.
People also ask:
Why is my dog going to bed earlier?
Your dog goes to bed earlier because of diet issues or old age. It could also be that a dog’s eating too much which makes them sleepy. Old dogs, on the other hand, sleep a lot more than adult ones due to joint pain and lack of energy.
Old dogs become weak physically. They’d also begin to lose interest in anything or to anybody. It’s normal for senior dogs to spend most of their time sleeping.
As to adults, it’s more likely they go to bed early if they eat in the evenings. Calming foods such as brown rice and oily fish can make your dog sleepy.
Do dogs like to go to bed early?
Dogs like to go to bed early when they lack physical stimulation. If they have nothing else to do that makes them active, they’ll sleep a lot more.
When was the last time you took them to exercise?
Do you know that exercise is an efficient stress-buster for dogs? And mental stimulation is vital to keep their mind in a healthy state.
Getting a puzzle toy and making them explore on walks are beneficial for their mind. Training them can also increase their confidence and focus.
Which dogs sleep the most?
Some dog breeds that sleep the most include Greyhound, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Mastiff, and Pug.
I have a friend who’s told me about her dog going to bed early. She’d hear its snore as loud as a jet plane.
She used to be worried for her adult Pug until she learned they sleep at least 14 hours. Apparently, it’s natural for her dog’s breed to sleep early.
It’s doing great with the physical activities. That’s why she knew it’s the breed causing this behavior.
What time should dogs go to bed?
There’s no specific time when dogs should go to bed. As long as it’s consistent and it works for them, then it’s the perfect bedtime. Adult dogs will sleep at least 12-14 hours a day while puppies sleep 18-20 hours a day.
You can set up a routine to help your pooch recognize when it’s time for bed. Also, consider the schedule that works for you.
Plan your dog’s day with fun activities. Being active during the daytime will help you put them to sleep at night time. You can also use some treats to get them into their bed.
Try to make it consistent so that they’ll learn that nighttime is their bedtime. In this way, you can both have a good night’s sleep.
Why does my dog go to bed without me?
Your dog goes to bed without you because they’re independent. There are breeds that find it easier to relax on their own. Some of them include Greyhound, Akita, Maltese, Shiba Inu, and Pug.
They can find ways to occupy themselves without feeling anxious. You can leave them alone and they’d be fine with it.
They may also find their sleeping spot (floor, dog bed, den) more comfortable than your bed. No point in switching to your bed when they can sleep in peace on the floor.