Dog sleeping problems are fairly common. And while there are usually just one or two different sleeping problems that affect dogs, there are many different potential issues that could be causing the sleeping problems.
Perhaps you’ve bought your dog a foam dog bed, or taken it for a calm walk each evening, or visited your veterinarian. There are different solutions to dog sleeping problems, and they all depend on the problem and its cause. Here’s a bit more about both ends of the issue.
Common Dog Sleeping Problems
There are two main sleeping problems that dogs may encounter. One is snoring, and the other is insomnia. Snoring is a bit more straightforward. Often, snoring is an indication of a health problem, such as allergies or obesity. See your veterinarian to have him or her check whether this dog sleeping problem is a result of a health issue that needs attention.
The second is insomnia. Dog insomnia and dog restlessness are complex, as they could be caused by any number of things. Possible factors in dog insomnia include (but are not limited to):
• Fleas or other parasites
• Allergies
• Discomfort from an unseen injury or sprain
• Sickness or illness (kidney problems, cancer, etc.)
• Arthritis or hip dysplasia
• Pent up restless energy
• Improper bedding (flat, hard pad vs. comfortable foam dog bed, etc.)
• Hearing or vision problems associated with age
• Emotional stress or change
How to Deal with A Dog Sleeping Poorly (Dog Insomnia)
Since there are so many different possibilities that could be causing the dog sleeping problems, it is important to try several avenues to help the animal sleep more comfortably and consistently.
1. Address (or eliminate the possibility of) any health problems. This is very important. Dog insomnia can be a sign of a health problem. As the list above illustrates, some are more serious than others. It could be slight allergies or a life-threatening condition, so if you ever notice anything out of the ordinary, you should take your dog to the veterinarian (in addition to your regular check-ups).
2. Make sure your dog’s bed is comfortable. A good foam dog bed can make a big difference in the animal’s comfort. An orthopedic dog bed is especially recommended for dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia, as it supports their weight and removes pressure from their joints while they sleep. Also look for a waterproof dog bed or foam dog bed with washable liner, which lets you keep the bed clean and free of germs and parasites.
3. Give your dog plenty of exercise. A well-exercised dog has plenty of opportunity to release its pent up energy during the day, and may be less restless at night as a result. Don’t exercise your dog right before bed, though. Like a child, it will only get more wound up that way.
4. Understand your dog’s needs. If your dog is getting old, its nighttime wandering may be a result of sight and hearing loss. Older dogs sometimes become disoriented, especially when the lights are off. Consider equipping your home with nightlights and see if that makes the dog any more comfortable or decreases their dog sleeping problems.
