Do Chihuahuas Sleep A Lot?
Have you noticed your precious pooch is sleeping longer than normal? Are they spending a lot of time asleep, even when you want to play and cuddle with them? Well, you don’t need to be concerned if you notice your Chihuahua is sleeping a lot. And, if you’re thinking about getting a Chihuahua, you should know what you’re getting into. Let’s discuss normal sleeping behavior for Chihuahuas, why they sleep so long, and when you should actually be concerned or not.
How Many Hours Do Chihuahuas Sleep For?
Chihuahuas sleep for 12 to 14 hours on average, but some sleep for 15 or even 18 hours a day! It’s normal for most dogs to sleep a lot, but Chihuahuas especially like to sleep for half, or the majority of the day, including their nap times.
Just like humans, dogs need their rest, and they go through two phases of sleep including Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and light sleep. They may wake up more frequently while sleeping than you do, but this is also normal. They spend more hours in bed because they wake up so often and need more time to get sufficient deep sleep.
Why Does My Chihuahua Sleep All the Time?
As mentioned, it’s harder for a dog to get into a deep sleep for proper rest than it is for a human. Thus, they need to spend more time sleeping because they constantly are woken up to even light sounds. Dogs descend from wild hunting animals that used this ability to be able to move quickly to run from predators if needed.
Additionally, if you have a puppy, they will need even more sleep and may spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping to help support their development and growth, pretty similar to a human babies’ need for more sleep. Older dogs and dogs that are sick or overweight also need more sleep, so if your Chihuahua falls into one of those categories it could be normal for them to sleep 18 hours a day.
Your dog’s need for sleep will also vary depending on how active they are, their diet, personality, and breeding. In general, there’s no need to be concerned if your Chihuahua is sleeping 12 to 18 hours a day.
How to Help Your Chihuahua Get Proper Sleep
You can help your Chihuahua get enough sleep by putting them on a routine that includes regular toilet and feeding time. A Chihuahua that is new to your family will have the hardest time falling asleep and adjusting as they transition to their new environment. But, after a few weeks, they should adjust to their new home and routine and be able to get proper sleep.
You can also help your dog stay active and awake with toys, walks, and plenty of exercises.
When to Be Concerned if Your Chihuahua Is Sleeping a Lot
If your dog is sleeping more than 20 hours a day and is not a puppy or very elderly, then you may need to consult with a vet. Additionally, if they are sleeping when there’s something better to do, for instance, they lose interest in toys, playing, eating or activities they usually enjoy, then it might be time to talk to a vet.
Just like humans, dogs can have sleep disorders like narcolepsy or sleep apnea. Working with a veterinarian, you can help to diagnose your dog and determine how to best treat the situation.
How to Tell if Your Chihuahua is Dreaming
You can tell that your Chihuahua is dreaming whenever they twitch or make sounds, including barking or growling. They may even move their paws in the air, which can look funky but is actually just their way of sleepwalking.
Why Do Chihuahuas Sleep Under Covers?
Chihuahuas can get cold just like humans, but they also have a very thin coat, and so you may want to give them some covers or even let them sleep next to you for body heat.
Ensure that your dog has plenty of blankets to keep them warm and note that it’s perfectly normal for them to burrow down into their blankets. Chihuahuas like to burrow under covers for protection, warmth, and peaceful sleep.
Do Chihuahuas Like to Sleep With Their Owners?
Chihuahuas love to sleep with their owners or even a piece of clothing or blanket that belongs to you. This is because they are pack animals and want to be a part of the larger group. Chihuahuas will get a better sleep when they know you are near or have their pack nearby. Additionally, if you are asleep as well, then they will get a deeper sleep because they won’t be worried about where you are or distracted by what you’re doing.
Is It Okay To Let My Chihuahua Sleep With Me?
If you’re worried about whether you should let your dog sleep with you, note that it is a personal decision and your Chihuahua can be just as happy sleeping in their own bed, as long as they feel you are near. The benefits of letting your dog sleep with you are that they will help keep you warm, help you relax and cuddle, and offer a feeling of safety. Plus, it can you’re your Chihuahua feel safe and happy, allowing them to have a deeper sleep. However, there is a low risk of transmitting diseases or parasites, or the possibility of rolling on your dog in your sleep. Ultimately, it is up to you what you decide to do with your dog.
Do Chihuahuas Like to Cuddle?
Chihuahuas enjoy cuddling with you. They can smell you on your items, and it will give them comfort and make them feel safe. If you are going away for a while, many trainers recommend that you leave an item of your clothing for them to snuggle up with while you’re gone.
Do Chihuahuas Sleep With Their Eyes Open?
Yes, Chihuahuas can sleep with their eyes open. That is because they do not get into a deep sleep as humans do, so they are more alert while sleeping.
Let your Chihuahua Sleep
You don’t need to be concerned if your Chihuahua sleeps for over ten hours a night, it’s very normal behavior for Chihuahuas. Even if they sleep all night long, dogs can sleep for much of the daytime too. After all, your dog doesn’t have a job, smartphone, or Netflix to keep them up as you do.
However, if you are worried about how much your dog sleeps, you can track their sleep cycles and patterns and help maintain a healthy diet and routine with them. If they are still sleeping over 20 hours a night, or acting unusual, it might be time to see the vet.