If you’re raising a young puppy, you might find yourself wondering why they sleep so much—or sometimes not enough. Puppies, like babies, grow quickly, and proper rest is a huge part of that process. Establishing the ideal nap schedule for a growing puppy not only supports their development but also helps reduce crankiness, improve behavior, and make your daily routine more predictable.
In this blog, we’ll explain how much sleep puppies really need, how to recognize when your pup needs a nap, and how to create a nap schedule that works for both of you.
How Much Sleep Do Puppies Really Need?
One of the most surprising things about bringing a puppy home is how much they sleep. Most growing puppies need between 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day. That’s right—almost the entire day! This includes nighttime sleep and daytime naps.
Unlike adult dogs who tend to settle into two or three longer rest periods, puppies nap in short bursts throughout the day. These naps help recharge their little bodies and process all the new information they’re taking in. Proper sleep is essential for brain development, muscle growth, and emotional balance.
Puppy Nap Needs by Age
The amount of sleep a puppy needs will vary slightly depending on their age:
- 8 to 10 weeks old: Naps every 1 to 2 hours. Your puppy may only stay awake for about 45 minutes to an hour at a time before needing to sleep again.
- 11 to 14 weeks old: Wake windows stretch to 1.5 to 2 hours. They might take 4 to 6 naps a day.
- 15 to 20 weeks old: Puppies at this stage can stay awake for 2 to 3 hours. They may nap 3 to 4 times a day.
- 5 to 6 months old: Fewer naps needed. Most puppies sleep around 16 hours total with 1 to 2 naps during the day.
Every puppy is different, so don’t worry if yours needs slightly more or less than average—as long as they’re happy and healthy.
How to Know When Your Puppy Needs a Nap
It’s not always obvious when a puppy needs rest, but there are some common signs to look for. These include:
- Excessive zooming or hyperactivity
- Sudden clumsiness
- Whining or barking without clear reason
- Ignoring commands they normally follow
- Lying down mid-play or in random spots
- Nipping or becoming more mouthy than usual
When you see these signs, it’s a good time to guide your puppy toward a nap before they become overtired.
Creating the Ideal Nap Schedule for a Growing Puppy
Consistency is key when it comes to your puppy’s naps. Here’s how you can build a nap schedule that fits both your puppy’s needs and your daily life:
1. Use Wake Windows as a Guide
Keep track of how long your puppy can stay awake happily. Once they’re near the end of their wake window, help them wind down. For example, after playtime or a short walk, guide your puppy to their crate or bed with a chew toy to settle in.
2. Build a Daily Rhythm
While puppies don’t need rigid routines, they do benefit from predictable patterns. Try scheduling naps at similar times each day. For example:
- Wake up and potty at 7:00 AM
- First nap around 8:00–9:00 AM
- Midday nap after lunch and light play
- Afternoon nap after a walk or training session
- Early evening nap before dinner
- Wind down by 9:00 PM for bedtime
3. Create a Nap-Friendly Environment
Puppies need a quiet, cozy space to rest. Whether you use a crate, playpen, or dog bed in a quiet room, make sure the environment is calm. Use white noise or soft background sounds to muffle household noise if needed.
Avoid waking your puppy unnecessarily during naps, and encourage calm time after they wake up. Rushing them into stimulation can lead to crankiness—yes, puppies can be moody too!
4. Combine Nap Time with Training
Use naps as part of your training routine. Encourage your puppy to nap in the same space each time, so they learn it’s a safe place to rest. Giving them a treat or chew toy when they settle down reinforces this behavior.
5. Don’t Expect a Perfect Schedule Overnight
It can take a few weeks for your puppy’s nap schedule to become consistent. Be patient, track their behavior, and make small adjustments as needed. Like human babies, puppies need help learning when it’s time to rest.
Final Thoughts
The ideal nap schedule for a growing puppy supports their development and makes life smoother for you, too. With the right mix of structure, flexibility, and observation, you can help your puppy get the rest they need to grow into a healthy, happy dog.
So if you’re wondering whether your pup is sleeping too much or too little, just remember—frequent naps are normal and necessary. Keep an eye on their behavior, create a peaceful sleep space, and build a rhythm that works for both of you. Happy napping!