Dogs sleep an average of 12 to 14 hours a day, but puppies and older dogs can sleep up to 18 hours. An important moment therefore! Sleep is essential for the health and well-being of your dog. It allows your four-legged friend to rest, recover and maintain good physical and mental health. There are some factors that are important to look out for in order to help him be in good shape!

Choosing the right bed

His basket should suit him and be comfortable. It can sometimes take time for him to get used to it but if he really doesn't decide to go to bed there, suggest another subject or a different form.

The basket should be big enough for your dog to stretch and turn around comfortably. Smaller dogs generally need a 60 cm basket, while larger dogs may need a 120 cm basket or more. Basket materials should be comfortable and appropriate to the temperature in your home. Memory foam baskets are particularly popular for their support and comfort. Dogs love comfort: soft materials and soft cushions. Choose a basket that is easy to clean and has a removable, machine washable cover to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your dog.

If your dog suffers from a condition such as osteoarthritis, ask your veterinarian for advice on installing a suitable mattress.

Install it in the right place

Your basket must be placed strategically.

• Avoid noisy or busy areas: dogs are sensitive to noise and movement, so it's best to set up their beds in a quiet, peaceful area in the house.

• Choose a place that is protected from drafts.

• Offer a private space: a space of his own to feel safe. Put your dog's bed in a quiet area where he can rest undisturbed.

Balance its activities

Exercise plays an important role in the quality of your dog's sleep. Adapt the exercise to the age and breed of your dog. Vary activities, alternating walks, games, and training sessions to stimulate your dog's mind and body. Establish a routine: Dogs enjoy routine and will feel more relaxed if they know what to expect. Try to schedule walks and play sessions at regular times each day to create a consistent routine.

Sleep and dream

Dreams occur during the REM sleep phase (also called REM sleep), which is characterized by rapid eye movement and intense brain activity.

During this phase of sleep, it is common to see dogs move their paws, wag their tail, growl, or bark slightly, which may indicate that they are dreaming. Dogs' dreams can be linked to their daily experiences, such as playing, running, or interacting with other dogs and humans. While we can't know exactly what dogs dream about, it's likely that their dreams reflect their experiences and emotions, just as they do for humans.

However, be careful not to wake him up during his deep sleep phases, they are necessary and the reaction in case of sudden awakening can be unpredictable and dangerous.

Sleep quality is also a signal

Often overlooked, sleep disorders in dogs are a good indicator of behavioral balance.
A dog that wakes up very often during the night and engages in activities such as walking may be anxious. A dog that sleeps less than average is also potentially hyperactive.
Note that depression is accompanied by sudden awakenings in the first half hour.

To help your dog sleep well, it is essential to provide a calm and comfortable environment, a suitable bed and to ensure that he gets enough exercise. By following these tips, you will contribute to improving the quality of life of your four-legged friend and promoting their overall well-being. Remember that each dog is unique, and feel free to adapt these recommendations to suit your dog's specific needs. So when your dog shuts his eye, open yours!

With the Jagger & Lewis app, monitor your dog's sleep.