Shih Tzu Sleeping Habits: Why Do They Nap So Much?

Shih Tzus are known for their sleepy nature, and it is not unusual for them to sleep for a large portion of the day. The amount of sleep a Shih Tzu needs depends on various factors such as age, size, and physical activity levels. Puppies, for instance, require more sleep—up to 18 hours a day—as they spend a lot of energy exploring and playing. On the other hand, older dogs also need more sleep, with senior dogs sleeping anywhere between 14 to 19 hours a day.

Shih Tzus were originally bred to be foot and lap warmers for emperors, which may explain their love for napping. However, if you notice a sudden increase in your dog's sleep duration or lethargy, it could be a sign of underlying health issues. It is important to monitor your dog's sleeping patterns and consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Age-related sleep patterns

The amount of sleep a Shih Tzu needs depends on its age.

Newborns

Newborn Shih Tzus can sleep for up to 22 hours a day, waking up every couple of hours to nurse.

Puppies

Shih Tzu puppies sleep between 16 and 20 hours a day. They often alternate between bursts of energy and sudden exhaustion, sleeping wherever they are. It's common for puppies to sleep more during the day. Their sleep patterns gradually start to resemble those of adult dogs when they are around eight weeks old.

Adults

Adult Shih Tzus sleep between 12 and 16 hours a day. An adult's sleep duration depends on its daily activity level. Active dogs tend to sleep less during the day and have better nighttime rest. Less stimulated dogs may nap more during the day, which can impact their night sleep.

Seniors

Senior dogs, especially those over 10 years old, need more rest to rejuvenate. Senior Shih Tzus sleep between 14 and 19 hours a day. Their sleep patterns may become irregular, and they may wake up at night to go to the bathroom or adjust their position for comfort.

Sleep environment

The sleep environment is crucial in ensuring your Shih Tzu gets adequate rest. The space should be free of drafts, well-ventilated, and maintained at a comfortable temperature. Additionally, it is important to provide a bed suited to their size and specific needs, such as breathing support for brachycephalic dogs.

When choosing a sleeping area, consider your Shih Tzu's preference for a space they feel safe and comfortable in. This might not always be a designated dog bed but could be a spot they select themselves. If they choose an unsafe or unsuitable location, try to replicate what they seem to like about that environment elsewhere. For example, if they prefer sleeping on a hard floor, you could provide a bed with a firmer surface.

For adult Shih Tzus, it is essential to establish a consistent sleep routine and schedule. This includes turning off lights, televisions, and music at bedtime to signal that it's time for sleep. It is also recommended to avoid feeding them close to bedtime, as this can give them excess energy.

If your Shih Tzu is struggling to sleep, creating a calm environment before bedtime can help. Dim the lights and reduce noise about an hour before sleep to aid your dog in winding down.

For senior Shih Tzus, maintaining a regular schedule for feeding, bathroom breaks, and bedtime can improve sleep quality. It is also beneficial to provide an orthopedic bed with extra cushioning and support for their joints.

Sleep quality

The quality of sleep is just as important as the quantity for Shih Tzus. Ensuring your dog gets enough quality sleep is as vital as providing a balanced diet and regular exercise for their health and happiness.

Shih Tzus need more sleep than humans, requiring more than 50% of the amount we sleep each day. The number of hours a Shih Tzu sleeps varies according to their age, size, and physical activity. For example, puppies need more sleep than adult dogs as they spend a lot of energy, and older dogs require more sleep due to their physical and mental condition.

Shih Tzus are social sleepers and can only sleep when in contact with another dog or their human companions. If not physically, they need to be in the same room, which allows them to feel more secure and relaxed.

Shih Tzus have a human-like sleep pattern but with key differences inherited from their wild ancestors, the wolves. They go through similar sleep phases as humans, but their REM stage lasts only about 10% of the cycle, compared to 25% in people. This shorter REM stage reflects their instinctual need to be alert and ready to respond to their environment.

The more activity your Shih Tzu has during the day, the better the quality of their rest. Their sleep must be of good quality, and they will enjoy a good rest if they perform lots of physical and mental activity. In addition to giving them walks and exercise, you should stimulate their brain with interactive activities.

• Choose a good bed: A bed with bolstered sides can support their head in a slightly elevated position, which helps elongate the breathing passages for easier breathing during sleep. Look for orthopedic beds that provide ample support for joints. Memory foam beds can contour to your dog's body, reducing pressure on joints and ensuring a restful sleep.
• Establish a sleep routine: Dogs love routine. Set a regular bedtime and wake-up time to help regulate their sleep cycle. A light walk or play session in the evening can help expend any excess energy, making it easier for your Shih Tzu to settle down for the night.
• Create a comfortable sleeping environment: Provide a space free of drafts but well-ventilated and with the right temperature for a restful sleep.
• Address common sleep disturbances: If your Shih Tzu wakes up frequently, ensure they have a quiet, comfortable sleeping area away from high-traffic areas of the home. Consider a white noise machine or soft music to drown out any disturbing noises. If they tend to wake up too early, examine their sleeping environment. Ensure it's not too bright in the morning; blackout curtains can help. Also, adjust their feeding times; a later dinner can sometimes help them sleep longer into the morning.

Sleep disorders

While it is normal for Shih Tzus to sleep a lot, there are some sleep disorders that can affect their rest. These disorders are important to take into account as they could indicate serious illnesses.

Insomnia can be caused by various pathologies, including rheumatism and respiratory discomfort. Anxiety can also cause insomnia, leading to sudden awakenings during deep sleep. Stress and depression are other possible causes of insomnia in Shih Tzus. Physical contact and soothing touches can help alleviate this.

Hypersomnia is common in Shih Tzus with narcolepsy, an inherited disease that causes them to fall asleep regardless of their activities.

Sleepwalking can cause your Shih Tzu to walk, run, jump, bark, or cry while asleep. Although it is a more common disorder than often realised, it does not have any serious negative effects on the dog.

Snoring can be due to several factors, including allergies, overweight, and throat obstruction. Snoring can also be a sign of serious diseases such as tumors, so it is important to consult a veterinarian if the problem persists.

Additionally, changes in sleep patterns can be early indicators of underlying health issues. For example, a sudden increase in sleep duration or lethargy can signal health concerns such as hypoglycemia, hypothyroidism, heart disease, or other systemic issues.

Daytime activity

The amount of sleep a Shih Tzu needs depends on its age, size, and physical activity level. For example, puppies will spend most of their day sleeping and feeding, and older dogs require more sleep due to their physical and mental condition. On average, an adult Shih Tzu sleeps for 12 to 16 hours a day, with 8 to 9 hours at night and the rest divided into several "naps" throughout the day.

Shih Tzus require more sleep than humans, needing more than 50% of the amount of sleep we need. They also have a human-like sleep pattern, going through similar sleep phases, but with a shorter REM stage, reflecting their instinctual need to stay alert and respond to their environment.

To ensure your Shih Tzu gets a good night's sleep, it is important to provide a suitable environment. This includes a comfortable bed suited to their size, a space free of drafts but well-ventilated, and a room with the right temperature for restful sleep.

Additionally, the more activity your Shih Tzu gets during the day, the better the quality of their rest. This includes both physical and mental activity. Walks and exercises are important, but it is also crucial to stimulate their brains with interactive activities. By meeting their daily activity needs, you can promote better nighttime rest and improve their overall physical and mental health.

• Establish a daily routine: Create a consistent schedule for meals, grooming, playtime, bathroom breaks, and bedtime. A predictable routine will help regulate their sleep cycle and make it easier for your Shih Tzu to settle down at night.
• Include regular exercise: Engage your Shih Tzu in twice-daily walks and play sessions to expend their energy. This is especially important if they tend to be more active at night.
• Provide interactive activities: In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation is crucial. Include brain games or training sessions in their daily routine to tire them out mentally and improve their cognitive function.
• Social interaction: Shih Tzus are social sleepers and can sleep better when in contact with their human companions or other dogs. Social interaction during the day can help improve their emotional health and overall temperament.
• Maintain a comfortable environment: Ensure your Shih Tzu's sleeping area is quiet, comfortable, and away from high-traffic areas. Consider using a white noise machine or soft music to drown out any disturbing noises.

By incorporating these activities into your Shih Tzu's daily routine, you can help improve the quality of their sleep and promote a healthier and happier life.

Frequently asked questions