13/03/2026
World Sleep Day is an annual event to raise awareness of sleep disorders in humans. Approximately 35% of humans suffer with insomnia which impacts both physical and mental health, adding to stress, decreased performance and focus, increased incidence of ill health and exacerbation of existing pain and conditions.
Good sleep has 3 elements; having enough hours so you feel rested and alert the next day, minimal interruptions so you are able to complete several full sleep cycles and enough deep sleep to be restorative.
A recent human review showed an association between poor sleep quality and higher aggression in 81% of the studies (van Veen 2021).
Our companion animals need good quality sleep too. Thinking about the above study, it would seem logical that if our dogs don't get enough good quality sleep it could increase their reactivity and add to their triggers.
Adult humans need between 7-9 hours sleep which is taken in one session (monophasic), usually at night. In contrast dogs are polyphasic sleepers, having several wake-sleep cycles throughout the day with longer periods in the afternoon and overnight. An adult dog needs between 12-14 hours sleep. Puppies need longer, sleeping 18-20 hours.
Dogs are social sleepers, preferring company when they sleep and often in an elevated position, given the choice. They need to feel safe and enabling them to choose where they sleep can help. Try to ensure they can have uninterrupted sleep if possible, not touching them when they are asleep, however tempting it is when they look so cute!!
