As our dogs get older, sleep becomes their favourite hobby. And I mean seriously older-dog-level naps. We’re talking deep snoozes on the couch, little naps in the sun, mid-chew dozing, like a grandpa at a Sunday BBQ.

But when is it just normal aging, and when should we start asking questions?

So, Why Do Senior Dogs Sleep So Much?

First off, yes, it’s totally normal for older dogs to sleep more. Their bodies are slowing down. They don’t have the same energy reserves they used to, and a quick trip around the block can feel like a marathon.

Think of it like this, your dog’s not being lazy, they’re just pacing themselves. Bit like Uncle Dave after Christmas lunch, right?

Older dogs often nap between 14 to 18 hours a day. And some days? Even more.

When Sleep Becomes… Kinda Weird

Now here’s where we dog parents need to keep our eyes peeled.

Let’s say your senior pup is suddenly sleeping way more than usual. Or they seem disoriented when they wake up. Or they’re getting restless and pacing at odd hours, like 2 in the morning, when all you want is a decent kip.

That’s when we raise the flag and start asking, “Is this just old age, or something more?”

What’s Considered Normal Sleep for Senior Dogs?

Picture this: your dog sleeps after meals, snoozes most of the day, but still perks up when you grab the leash or rustle a snack. They can be a bit slower on the uptake, sure, but they still have that tail wag when it counts.

That’s classic senior behavior. It’s chill. It’s expected.

But if your dog seems exhausted, even after rest, or they’re barely responding to things that used to excite them, like walks, treats, or belly rubs, it might be time to look deeper.

What Might Be Behind the Sudden Snooze-Fest?

Alright, here’s where it gets a bit vet-y, but stick with me. These are a few things we look for when sleep patterns change a bit too much:

1. Pain or Arthritis
If your dog’s joints ache, they’ll lie down more. Makes sense, right? Getting up hurts, so they’d rather not bother. Look for stiffness, limping, or hesitation before using stairs.

2. Hypothyroidism
Super common in older dogs. Their metabolism slows down, and they act sluggish, gain weight, and sleep like rocks. A simple blood test can confirm it.

3. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (Doggy Dementia)
Yep, dogs get memory problems too. If they seem confused, forget where they are, or wake up in the night wandering, that’s a red flag.

4. Heart or Kidney Issues
Fatigue is a big symptom here. You might notice slower recovery after walks, coughing, or drinking more water than usual.

5. Medication Side Effects
Is your pup on any new meds? Some painkillers and anxiety meds can knock them out for hours. Definitely worth chatting with your vet if things feel off.

One Day, She Just Stopped Getting Up for Walks

Quick story, my own old girl Zola, the one who used to herd ducks for fun, started refusing her morning walks.

At first, I thought she was just being a bit dramatic (she is a diva). But then I realised she wasn’t just tired, she was hurting. Turned out to be early arthritis, and once we started treatment, she was back to tail-wagging at the front door.

Always trust your gut. If it feels weird, it probably is.

When To Ring the Vet

If your senior dog is sleeping through meals, skipping potty breaks, or just not acting like themselves, get them checked out. Especially if the change was sudden.

Look for signs like:

• Unexplained weight gain or loss
  
• Changes in appetite or thirst
  
• Disorientation or whining at night
  
• Loss of interest in things they used to love
  

Better to check early than wait until it becomes a bigger problem.

Tips to Keep Your Sleepy Senior Comfortable

You don’t need to overhaul your life, just tweak a few things to support their sleepy ways.

• Soft beds in quiet corners help them rest better. Orthopedic ones are even better for achy joints.
  
• Keep a routine. Senior dogs love knowing what’s next. It helps with anxiety too.
  
• Light evening walks can help them sleep better through the night.
  
• Mental games like snuffle mats or puzzle feeders give a little brain workout without wearing them out.
  

Sometimes a cozy spot and a gentle belly rub are all they really want.

Let Them Sleep… But Stay Watchful

There’s a fine line between peaceful rest and something being off. You know your dog best. If you’re getting that nagging feeling in your gut that something’s not right, listen to it.

Just because they’re old doesn’t mean they have to suffer. There are plenty of ways to help them feel better, move easier, and maybe even cut back on the snoring a bit.

Here’s the Thing

Getting old is hard. For them, for us. You’ll probably feel helpless at times. You might even feel guilty for being frustrated. That’s all normal.

But remember this, every nap they take in your home is a sign they feel safe. Every quiet moment is trust. And every sleepy snore? It means they know they’re loved.

Take a breath. You’re doing great. They know it. And they love you for it.

So, how’s your sleepy pup been doing lately, normal napper, or something feeling off?