Akitas are known for their loyalty and are a brilliant breed with medium energy levels. They do not require much exercise to be wiped out, which makes them chill dogs and excellent apartment dogs. On average, adult Akitas sleep for 12-14 hours a day, while puppies and seniors will require roughly 15-18 hours of sleep. Akitas are also known to be independent, even in their sleeping habits, and they can be quite picky about where they sleep. They tend to prefer cooler rooms and hard surfaces, such as tile, linoleum, or concrete. While Akitas may sleep a lot, this is normal for their breed, and it is only a cause for concern if they are also lethargic and disconnected from their surroundings.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Average sleep for adult Akitas | 10-14 hours a day |
Average sleep for Akita puppies | 15-18 hours a day |
Average sleep for senior Akitas | 14-18 hours a day |
Sleep position | Curled up into a doughnut, on their back, on their side, on their front, sphinx pose, little spoon |
Sleeping habits | Depends on the owner and their lifestyle |
Sleeping location | Prefer cooler, hard surfaces like tiles, linoleum, concrete |
What You'll Learn
How much sleep do Akitas need?
Akitas are a brilliant breed known for their loyalty, steadfastness, and medium energy levels. They are also quite versatile, accommodating many lifestyles and sleeping patterns.
Akita Puppies
Akita puppies will sleep a lot, and this is crucial for their growth and development. Puppies need more sleep than adults, as it helps them regulate emotions, pay attention, and learn important skills. On average, an Akita puppy will sleep for 15-18 hours a day, including nighttime sleep and daytime naps.
Adult Akitas
Adult Akitas will sleep anywhere between 10-14 hours a day on average. This is similar to the sleep requirements of other dog breeds, as dogs tend to spend more time sleeping and resting than being active.
Senior Akitas
As Akita dogs age, they may start to sleep more, transitioning back to a puppy-like sleep pattern. Senior Akitas, or those over eight years old, will sleep for 14-16 hours a day on average and may require up to 18 hours of sleep as they get older.
Factors Affecting Sleep
Several factors can influence an Akita's sleep needs, including age, activity level, environment, and breed. For example, active Akitas who exercise a lot might need 14-16 hours of sleep for full recovery, while mellow house pets may only require 10-12 hours.
An Akita's personality and temperament also play a role, with high-energy dogs sleeping a little less than more relaxed dogs. Additionally, Akitas left alone all day may sleep more due to a lack of stimulation and engagement.
Signs of Sleep Problems
While it is normal for Akitas to sleep a significant portion of the day, sudden or significant changes in their sleep patterns could indicate a problem. For example, if your Akita is sleeping more than usual and seems lethargic and disconnected, it may be time to consult a veterinarian.
Other signs of potential sleep issues include changes in defecation habits, signs of sickness, stress, depression, or boredom. If your Akita is sleeping too much but is otherwise healthy, you can try increasing playtime or changing their diet to reduce drowsiness.
Sleeping Positions
Akitas often sleep in a curled-up, doughnut-like shape, especially when they are cold, as this position helps conserve body heat. They may also sleep on their sides, backs, or stomachs, with variations depending on the temperature and their level of anxiety.
Sleeping Habits
Akitas can be picky about where they sleep and often prefer harder surfaces due to their breeding as outdoor dogs. They may also sleep outside, especially if provided with adequate shelter and brought inside during extreme weather. However, it is not recommended, as Akitas thrive on relationships and being close to their owners, and sleeping outdoors can be lonely.
To help your Akita sleep at night, ensure they get plenty of exercise during the day, feed them in the evening, and take them out for a bathroom break before bedtime. Establishing a bedtime routine and a designated sleeping area can also aid in a good night's rest.
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What are common Akita sleeping positions?
Akitas are known to sleep in a variety of positions, with some being more common than others. Here are some of the most common Akita sleeping positions:
The "Curl" or "Doughnut" Position: In this position, Akitas curl up into a tight ball, tucking their paws and tail close to their body. This position is common when they are feeling chilly as it helps them conserve body heat. It also indicates that they feel secure and comfortable.
The "Superman" Position: Akitas stretch out their front and hind legs, resembling a flying superhero. This position is often seen when they are trying to cool down or relax while staying ready for action.
The "Sprawl" Position: Akitas stretch out on their side with their legs extended. This position indicates deep sleep and a high level of comfort and ease in their surroundings.
The "Log" Position: Akitas lie on their side, straight like a fallen log. This position shows they are sleeping peacefully and free from stress or discomfort. Exposing their belly, throat, and feet indicates extreme comfort and trust in their environment.
The "Belly-Up" Position: Akitas lie on their back with their belly exposed, signalling that they feel completely safe and vulnerable with their surroundings.
The "Sphinx" or "Little Spoon" Position: Akitas sit upright with their head down, often seen when they are taking a quick nap. This position allows them to keep a watchful eye on their surroundings while dozing off. It also indicates their desire for attention and affection from their owners.
These are just a few of the common sleeping positions of Akitas, and each position can provide insight into their mood, comfort, health, and personality.
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Why do Akitas sleep so much?
Akitas are known to be a loyal and steadfast breed with medium energy levels. They do not require much exercise to tire themselves out, which makes them "chill" dogs and excellent apartment dogs.
On average, an adult Akita will sleep anywhere between 10 to 14 hours a day. Puppies and senior dogs will need more sleep, ranging from 15 to 18 hours since they are growing and spend their energy playing and getting to know the world around them. Senior Akitas may also sleep more due to medical problems like arthritis or pain.
Akitas are genetically predisposed to not be obese, but if your Akita is overweight, this could be a reason for their increased sleep. A change in sleeping patterns can also be caused by certain diseases, with sick dogs understandably sleeping more than their healthy counterparts.
Akitas are double-coated, so summertime can be challenging for them. Heat exhaustion could be a reason why your Akita is sleeping more. If playtime has increased, your Akita may need some time to adjust to the new level of exercise, but they will be back to their normal sleeping pattern soon.
Stress, anxiety, boredom, diet, or disease can all be factors in why your dog is sleeping more than usual. If you are concerned about your Akita's sleeping patterns, it is always a good idea to consult your vet.
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How can I help my Akita sleep at night?
Akitas are a brilliant breed known for their loyalty and steadfastness. They are generally happiest being loyal helpers and require enough sleep. On average, adult Akitas sleep for 12-14 hours a day, while puppies and seniors require 15-18 hours of sleep.
Give Them Plenty of Exercise
Akitas need exercise to stay healthy and to wear themselves out. They were originally bred to be retrievers for hunters or to herd livestock, so they are used to getting a lot of exercise throughout the day. By making sure your Akita gets enough exercise during the day, they will need recovery time and will therefore sleep longer and better at night.
Feed Them in the Evening
Akitas should be fed twice a day for optimum digestive health, with one of these feeds in the evening so they have a full belly to fall asleep. This will prevent your Akita from getting up in the middle of the night in search of food.
Take Them for a Bathroom Break Before Bed
Take your Akita out for a walk or let them wander around the yard or somewhere else they can go to the bathroom safely before bedtime. A full bladder will impede sleep, and they will likely wake you up to let them out.
Create a Few Sleep Options
Akitas can be quite picky about where they sleep. Many like to sleep on harder surfaces because they were bred to sleep mostly outside. However, some will appreciate a softer place to snooze. Give your Akita a few sleep options and be open to where they choose to sleep. Don't force them to sleep somewhere they won't be comfortable.
Make a Bedtime Routine
Akitas will adapt quickly to routines, so by being consistent in their activities before bed, they will soon learn it's time to relax and unwind to prepare for sleep. Feed them, walk them, dim the lights, talk softly to them, and repeat this process each night. Be prepared for your Akita to take a few weeks to adapt to this routine, especially if they aren't puppies anymore. They may resist at first, and you can expect a few sleepless nights as they wake you for their needs.
Don't Reward Bad Behaviour
Giving in to the wants of your Akita during the night won't teach them that night is for sleep, and they will continue to bother you. Unless they are sick, ignore any barking, whining, scratching, and other attempts to get your attention. Your Akita will soon learn that you won't respond, and they will stop bothering you at night.
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Why do Akitas sleep outside?
Akitas are a breed of dog known for their loyalty, medium energy levels, and adaptability. While they can make wonderful pets, they were originally bred to be hunting retrievers or herding livestock, which means they are used to getting plenty of exercise throughout the day. As a result, they typically sleep anywhere between 10 to 14 hours a day as adults, and 15 to 18 hours as puppies.
One reason Akitas may sleep outside is that they were bred to sleep outdoors and prefer sleeping on cool, hard surfaces. They are genetically predisposed to sleeping in colder temperatures, hailing from the Akita Prefecture of Northern Japan. Sleeping outside allows them to maintain a comfortable body temperature, especially in warm weather. Additionally, Akitas are independent and may seek out solitary sleeping spaces, including outside.
However, it is important to consider that Akitas are social dogs that thrive on relationships and being close to their owners. Sleeping outdoors for extended periods may not be ideal as it can be lonely for this breed. While they can tolerate being outside, it is recommended to bring them inside during extreme weather conditions to ensure their comfort and safety.
Ultimately, the decision to let an Akita sleep outdoors depends on various factors, including the dog's personality, the climate, and the owner's preferences. Some owners provide their dogs with the option to choose between sleeping indoors or outdoors by installing a dog door. By observing their Akita's behaviour and preferences, owners can create a suitable sleeping environment that meets their dog's unique needs.
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Frequently asked questions
An adult Akita will sleep on average between 10-14 hours a day. Puppies and senior dogs will sleep more, with 15-18 hours of sleep in a day.
Akitas are carnivores, and as such, they are intended to sleep a lot. They also have medium energy levels, so they do not need much exercise to be tired out.
Akitas like to sleep on cool, hard surfaces. They were bred to sleep outside, but they can also be quite picky about where they sleep.
Akitas often sleep curled up in a tight ball, or the "doughnut" shape, to keep warm. They may also sleep on their side, on their back with their legs in the air, or on their front with their legs stretched out.