why do dogs sleep so much

Dogs sleep so much primarily due to their unique sleep patterns, life stages, breed characteristics, diet, activity levels, and health conditions. Unlike humans, dogs spend only about 10% of their sleep in the deep REM stage, so they sleep more overall to compensate. Puppies and senior dogs need more rest for growth and recovery, respectively. Larger breeds often sleep more than smaller breeds. Dogs also sleep more when they are bored, stressed, or recovering from illness. Proper nutrition and mental stimulation can influence their sleep habits as well. In essence, dogs conserve energy, recuperate, and manage their physical and mental needs through extended rest periods.