If you happen to get a chihuahua for the first time, you will probably wonder how long do chihuahuas sleep. This is not unusual. Their long hours of sleep might be alarming to some people. If you are looking to get one for yourself, you might as well learn some of their behaviors before then. Learn about their sleep patterns, how long they should sleep and some reasons that may trigger the long hours of sleep. Also do not forget to check out our blogpost on popular dog breeds.
Understanding the sleeping patterns of a Chihuahua.
So, how long do chihuahuas sleep?
Generally, chihuahuas are known to sleep for very long hours. A baby chihuahua can sleep for about 18-20 hours while the adults can sleep for about 12 to 14 hours a day. The reason behind this being that the puppies are more energetic and very playful, which exhausts them hence the need for more sleep.
If you find the sleep to be unusual, or maybe the dog’s sleep pattern has changed, it could be due to boredom or illness. Some abrupt changes in their behaviors need a vet to determine what could be the cause. Either way, if your chihuahua sleeps in the range of 14 to 18 hours, there is no need to worry. That is just their nature. Let’s now look at some of the reasons your chihuahua could sleep so much.
Why Chihuahua Sleep So Much? How Long Do Chihuahuas Sleep?
When a chihuahua is born, he will spend all his time sleeping and will wake up only at intervals of about 2 hours to feed. This will go one until 3 to 7 weeks when the chi starts to learn how to walk. This can take about a week. At this time, the puppy is very curious and wants to learn. He will try to stay awake for longer periods. When the puppy is about 6 months, he will make use of his sleep fully as well as his active hours. The dog is playful and energetic when they are awake. By the time they are done playing, they will pass out and sleep for long hours again. This can be up to 18 hours a day. As they keep growing, the 18 hours will slowly reduce. At this age, you should teach your dog to manage his sleep, let him sleep at night and keep him active during the day. When they are adults, they should have mastered how to manage their sleep. They will sleep at night and stay awake for most parts of the day. This is 12 to 15 hours. As they get to the senior stage, they will tire easily and they will tend to sleep either frequently or longer.
- It’s Normal Behaviour For Chihuahua Puppies
It is very normal for chihuahuas to sleep a lot. Their sleep can leave you with so many questions. This should not bother you as their activities during the day are extreme. These dogs are hyperactive. They always try to get the most out of the time they are awake. What you should do as the dog owner is to try and help them manage their sleep. Try to keep them awake during the day and sleep during the night when you need no disturbance. This way, you will also have a peaceful sleep.
- Your Chihuahua Is Bored
Another reason which is not that common is that your chihuahua could be bored. Boredom leads to sleeping most of the times even to us humans. For dogs, boredom doesn’t always lead to sleep. When the dog is alone for long hours, they get bored and this makes them anxious. What results from an anxious dog is a mess. They will chew stuff, drop things, get aggressive, pant and bark a lot. You don’t need a mess around your house. Therefore, keep him occupied when he is awake. This is also the reason why he needs to learn how to manage his sleep. If you are lucky, your dog could sleep when he is bored.
- Your Chihuahua Is Suffering From Illness
Another reason for unnatural sleep in a chihuahua is health problems. It might be hard to know if this is the reason since they are known to sleep a lot. To know if this is the reason, you will notice some changes in their sleep behavior. Your dog might be sleeping for very long hours contrary to the normal frequent sleep and vice versa. If this is the case. You need to take him to a vet. They are in a better position to know what could be the reason for the sudden change. If not health issues, some changes like these could be caused by diet change, age, and even change of environment. Either way, take him to a vet just to be sure.
How Long Should My Chihuahua Sleep? How Many Hours A Day Should A Chihuahua Sleep?
On average, the senior dogs will sleep more than teenage dogs, and these teenage dogs will also tend to sleep more than the puppies. Puppies are curious and they will try to stay awake most of the time. The senior dogs may suffer from health-related issues such as arthritis which will keep them from being active most of the time and spend more time taking a nap. Just like us humans, teenagers love to sleep. It is the same case for the chihuahuas. On average, a senior will sleep for 16 to 17 hours. Adults will sleep for 12 to 15 hours, teen chihuahuas will sleep for up to 18 hours and the puppies of around 6 months will sleep for about 17 to 20 hours.
Why Does My Chihuahua Sleep Under The Covers?
As we know, dogs like to be around people and they feel safe and comfortable when they know they are surrounded. These covers make them feel secure and covered. The covers also provide the dog with warmth. They make them feel secure just like a den in the wild. You won’t have to worry about your dog suffocating, they know their way out. Just ensure that the covers are not tight.
Can My Chihuahua Sleep In My Bed?
Yes, you can let your canine friend sleep with you as long as both of you are healthy. This will improve your relationship with the dog and also, as research has proven, sleeping with your dog in the same bed helps you to sleep peacefully as long as the dog is not under the covers. Your sleep will naturally improve.
RELATED QUESTIONS
Do Chihuahuas Cuddle?
The chihuahuas are very interesting dogs to have. They are affectionate, sassy, and loyal. You might as well repay their loyalty with some cuddling. They enjoy cuddling a lot.
How Smart Is A Chihuahua Dog?
The chihuahuas are among the most intelligent dogs. They are open to learning. They learn fast, they are obedient and enthusiastic. This helps them in obedience trials and dogs’ agility. They like to explore and are always curious. I would say that chihuahuas are very smart dogs to have.
The long hours of sleep that a chihuahua sleeps should not bother you at all. Get yourself this affectionate companion and you will love him each day that passes. This article should help you understand their normal sleeping behaviors so that you don’t freak out on the first day with your pet. Save the pin below on your Pinterest pet board!
