How Long Do Pugs Sleep Each Day? Sleep Habits You Should Know
Pugs are famous for loving their naps. On average, adult pugs sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day. Puppies and senior pugs? They often sleep even longer—sometimes up to 18 hours. All that sleep isn’t laziness; it’s just part of being a pug. Rest helps their bodies recharge and supports healthy energy levels between play sessions.
Understanding how much your pug sleeps (and why) can help you support their health and daily routine.
Why Do Pugs Sleep So Much?
Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, which simply means they’ve got short snouts and flat faces. This makes breathing a little less efficient, so they tire more easily compared to other dogs. According to vets and long-time pug owners, pugs tend to take frequent naps after short bursts of activity.
Most pugs love curling up in warm, cozy spots—whether that’s a soft bed, a sunbeam on the floor, or even your lap. Many pug owners notice their dogs prefer napping near their humans, following them from room to room and settling down for yet another snooze.
All this sleep is normal. It’s your pug’s way of balancing out their lower stamina.
Is It Healthy for Pugs to Sleep This Much?
In general, yes. Sleeping around 12 to 14 hours a day is completely normal for adult pugs. Puppies and seniors naturally need more rest.
That said, sudden changes in sleep habits can signal trouble. If your pug starts sleeping much more—or much less—than usual, it could point to issues like weight gain, joint pain, or breathing difficulties. Many pug owners suggest watching for other changes, like lower energy or reluctance to go for walks. If you’re unsure, check with your vet.
As long as your pug seems happy and playful when awake, those long naps are nothing to worry about.
How Sleep Affects Your Pug’s Behavior
Pugs usually wake up happy and relaxed after their naps. When they don’t get enough sleep, though, many owners notice their dogs become clingy, whiny, or just plain grumpy.
Because pugs are such social dogs, they often choose to nap close to their people. Many pug parents say their dogs settle next to them—whether they’re working from home, relaxing on the couch, or even cooking dinner.
Giving your pug a quiet, cozy spot to rest can help maintain their mood and energy levels throughout the day.
Tips to Help Your Pug Sleep Comfortably
If you want your pug to get the best sleep possible, here are some helpful tips:
- Choose a soft, supportive bed. Orthopedic or elevated beds are great, especially for senior pugs with joint issues.
- Create a cozy sleeping area. Make sure it’s warm during colder months and cool in summer. Pugs don’t handle temperature extremes well.
- Stick to a gentle routine. Balanced walks and playtime help your pug burn energy during the day so they’re ready to rest.
- Keep an eye on snoring. Light snoring is common, but loud gasping or labored breathing while sleeping should be checked by your vet.
Many pug owners also recommend avoiding high-energy play close to bedtime, as it can leave pugs too excited to settle down.
Conclusion
Most pugs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, and it’s completely normal for their breed. Sleep helps your pug recharge, especially after short bursts of play. As long as they’re active and happy when awake, you’ve got nothing to worry about. Just make sure they have a cozy spot to rest and a daily routine that supports their natural sleep needs.
