Why does my dog sleep more in winter?

As the weather cools down, you might notice your dog spending a little more time curled up on the couch…or a lot more time. Maybe they’re slower to get moving in the morning, napping more during the day, or heading straight for the warmest spot in the house.

Just like humans, many dogs tend to slow down a little in winter. But how much extra sleep is normal, and when should you be concerned?

Do dogs sleep more in winter?

Yes, many dogs do sleep more during winter.

Cooler temperatures, shorter daylight hours and changes to routine can all affect your dog’s energy levels and sleep patterns.

Some dogs simply feel more relaxed and comfortable resting when it’s cold outside, especially if they’d rather be snoozing than heading out for a chilly walk.

Did you know?

Adult dogs sleep for around 12–14 hours a day on average – and puppies, senior dogs and larger breeds often sleep even more.

Why do dogs sleep more when it’s cold?

There are a few common reasons:

Cooler weather makes them less active ❄️

Cold mornings and rainy days often mean shorter walks, less outdoor play and fewer chances to burn energy.

Shorter daylight hours 🌙

Just like people, dogs can be affected by changes in daylight. Less sunlight can mean lower energy levels and more rest.

Comfort and routine 🛋️

When it’s cold, warm beds, sunny spots and heated rooms become much more appealing.

Age and arthritis 🐾

Older dogs may slow down more in winter, especially if joint stiffness or arthritis makes movement less comfortable.

Did you know?

Many dogs with arthritis show more stiffness during winter, particularly first thing in the morning or after long naps.

Which dogs tend to sleep more in winter?

Some dogs are more likely to become sleepy in cooler weather, including:

• Puppies
• Senior dogs
• Large breeds
• Short-haired breeds that feel the cold more easily
• Dogs with arthritis or mobility issues

Of course, every dog is different…some still act like it’s summer all year round.

When should I be concerned?

It’s worth paying closer attention if your dog is:

• Sleeping much more than usual
• Lethargic even when awake
• Losing interest in food
• Avoiding walks or movement
• Showing signs of pain or stiffness
• Acting differently overall

Sometimes what looks like “just being sleepy” can be linked to pain, illness or discomfort.

If something feels off, it’s always best to check with your vet.

Unsure how serious it is?

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How to keep your best friend comfy in winter

✅ Do:

• Keep bedding warm and dry
• Stick to regular walks and gentle exercise
• Watch for stiffness in older dogs
• Keep mental stimulation up with games and training indoors

❌ Don’t:

• Assume excessive sleeping is always normal
• Skip exercise altogether
• Ignore signs of pain or reluctance to move

Did you know?

Mental stimulation can be just as tiring as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, sniffing games and short training sessions are great for winter days indoors.

In summary

A little extra sleep in winter is usually completely normal for dogs. 😴

Cooler weather, shorter days and cosy routines can all make your dog more likely to nap.

But if your dog seems unusually tired, uncomfortable or unlike themselves, it’s worth paying closer attention.

Sometimes winter laziness is just winter laziness… and sometimes it’s your dog telling you something more.