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The Importance of Canine Sleep

 talalogoa

In The DogHouse

Jackie Drakeford
www.shootingtimes.co.uk

Sleep is probably the most underrated aspect of your dog's well-being, yet it is one of the cornerstones of health.  Any of us who have worked shifts or suffered from sleep deprivation will know how it affects us long term, and it is the same with our dogs.  Though dogs appear to be asleep for much of the time, and like other predators are designed to sleep for long spells, there is sleep and quality sleep, some dogs seldom achieving the latter.

Much dog sleep is light dozing, easily disturbed and full of dreams, often vocal and active.  This is as important to them as REM sleep is to us.  Secure dogs also have short spells of deep sleep, during which they get better quality rest.  You would expect a dog tired from a working day to go straight into a deep sleep, but they need the dreaming sleep first.

Yet there are owners who deny dogs the simplest comforts of decent bedding and peace and quiet for their sleep.  A cold dog, or one that has to sleep on a hard surface, or is intimidated by its kennelmate, or does not have its own safe place to rest, will never sleep as well as one that is comfortable in mind and body.  Such stress can actually make the dog ill, and will certainly affect its receptiveness to training.  In contrast, a dog that feels safe and cosy will get proper rest from its sleep, and so be healthier in mind and body.

When frightened, unwell or otherwise  needy, many dogs will try to sleep as close to their owners as possible, and it is an honour to be so trusted, just as it is a deeply bonding time when a tired puppy climbs on to your lap to sleep, because you are the safest place it knows.

reprinted with kind permission from Alastair Balmain
Deputy Editor:Shooting Times & Country Magazine
Blue Fin Building, 110 Southwark Street SE1 0SU
Tel: 020 3148 4750

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The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.