As the seasons change, you might notice your dog spending a little more time curled up on their bed, taking longer naps or simply seeming more content to snooze the day away.
And while it can be tempting to think they’re being particularly lazy, rest is an important part of your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Giving them plenty of opportunities to rest can help them adjust and keep those tails wagging all year round.
How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?
Dogs sleep a lot more than we do. While every dog is different, most adult dogs sleep or rest for around 12–14 hours a day, while puppies, older dogs and particularly active breeds may need even more.
It’s also worth remembering that dogs don't necessarily sleep for long periods at once. Their day is often made up of a mixture of proper sleep, light naps and quiet periods of rest.
So if your dog spends a good part of the afternoon curled up on their bed, there’s usually no need to feel guilty about it. Rest is just as important as exercise, play and enrichment.
Why Do Dogs Need More Rest When the Seasons Change?
Seasonal changes can mean changes to almost every part of your dog's routine.
1. Changes in temperature can affect energy levels
Dogs can be affected by both hot and cold weather.
During warmer months, dogs may tire more quickly after walks or outdoor activities as their bodies work harder to regulate their temperature. As the weather cools, some dogs may also prefer spending more time somewhere warm and comfortable.
A cosy, supportive place to rest gives your dog somewhere to properly switch off after a busy day.
2. Changing daylight hours can affect their routine
As autumn and winter arrive, the days become shorter and there are fewer hours of natural daylight.
You may find your usual morning and evening walks happening in different light, while your dog spends more time indoors. These changes can naturally shift their daily rhythm and create more opportunities for naps.
Don't worry if your dog seems to settle down earlier on darker evenings. A quieter routine can be a perfectly normal part of adjusting to the changing seasons.
3. Active dogs need time to recover
A dog who loves running, exploring and sniffing everything in sight can use a surprising amount of energy.
Walks aren't just physical exercise either. Sniffing, exploring new environments, meeting other dogs and learning new things can all be mentally stimulating.
After a particularly busy day, your dog may need more downtime to recover.
This is especially important for puppies and young dogs, who are still learning how to balance excitement and rest.
Sometimes the best thing you can give an energetic dog is permission to do absolutely nothing.
Older Dogs May Benefit From Extra Rest
As dogs get older, their bodies can change and they may naturally need more rest.
Senior dogs may tire more easily after walks and can benefit from having a comfortable place where they can settle without being disturbed.
A supportive dog bed can also provide a consistent resting spot throughout the day, whether that's in the living room, bedroom or their favourite sunny corner.
If you notice a significant or sudden change in your older dog's sleeping habits, energy levels or mobility, it's always worth speaking to your vet.
Rest Is Just as Important as Exercise
It's easy to focus on keeping our dogs active. Walks, games of fetch, training sessions and adventures are all important parts of a happy dog's life.
But rest and exercise need to work together.
Without enough downtime, some dogs can become overtired or overstimulated. This can sometimes look like extra excitement, difficulty settling, unwanted behaviours or simply being unable to switch off.
Building quiet time into your dog's routine gives them the opportunity to recover from everything they've experienced during the day.
Think of it as their version of a cosy evening on the sofa.
Creating a Comfortable Resting Space
One of the easiest ways to encourage good rest is to give your dog a comfortable place that's theirs.
A good dog bed should provide somewhere your dog can relax without being disturbed, while offering the support and comfort they need.
Consider placing their bed somewhere that's:
- Away from busy walkways and constant distractions
- Comfortable and draught-free
- Close enough to the family that they don't feel left out
- Easy for your dog to access
- Large enough for them to stretch out and change sleeping positions
- Easy to keep clean, especially during muddy and shedding seasons
And don't be surprised if your dog decides that their bed isn't the only place they want to sleep. The sofa, your feet, the kitchen floor and that one patch of sunshine are apparently all equally acceptable options!
Let Your Dog Set the Pace
Every dog is different.
A young working breed may still want to explore the great outdoors in the rain, while an older dog might be perfectly happy with a shorter walk followed by a long afternoon nap.
Rather than focusing on exactly how much your dog should be resting, pay attention to their usual behaviour and routine.
If they're happy, comfortable, eating normally and enjoying their usual activities, a little extra sleep as the seasons change is generally nothing to worry about.
The important thing is giving them the opportunity to rest when they need it.
Making the Most of Cosy Season
As the evenings draw in and the weather starts to change, it's a great time to embrace slower days with your dog.
A gentle walk, some enrichment, a tasty treat and a comfortable place to curl up can make for the perfect autumn or winter routine.
Because while our dogs might be happiest chasing birds, splashing through puddles and investigating every interesting smell, they also need plenty of time to recharge.
More adventures. More muddy paws. More naps.
And honestly, we're not complaining about the extra cuddles either.
Give Your Dog Somewhere Comfortable to Rest
At Four Bare Paws, we believe dogs deserve somewhere comfortable to switch off after all their adventures.
Our dog bed mattresses are designed with supportive foam, a cosy Sherpa top and a practical dual-sided design, making them suitable for everything from relaxing at home to settling down after a muddy day outdoors.
Because every adventure deserves a good nap afterwards.
Four Bare Paws made for muddy paws, happy tails and plenty of cosy snoozes.
