If you’re a proud owner of a Yorkie, you may have noticed that your pet loves to sleep. But just how much sleep is normal for these adorable pups? Do Yorkies sleep a lot? The answer is yes, they do. Yorkies are known to be one of the most sleep-loving dogs breeds out there.
On average, adult Yorkies sleep between 13-18 hours a day, while puppies can sleep up to 21 hours a day. This excessive sleeping may seem like a cause for concern, but it’s quite normal for these tiny dogs. However, if you notice that your Yorkie is sleeping more than usual or seems lethargic and uninterested in activities they normally enjoy, it’s important to pay attention and seek advice from a veterinarian if necessary.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind Yorkies’ love for sleep and what you can do to ensure your pet is getting the rest they need. We’ll also discuss when excessive sleeping may be a sign of a larger health iperiodsteps you can take to keep your Yorkie happy, healthy, and well-rested.
Yorkie Sleeping Habits
How Long Do Yorkies Sleep?
Yorkies are known to sleep a lot, with an average adult Yorkie sleeping from 12 to 18 hours a day. This includes sleeping through the night and taking multiple naps during the day. Mature Yorkies usually sleep through the night for a full 7 to 10-hour block, and they only take a few 20-minute to one-hour naps throughout the day. However, Yorkie puppies sleep for longer hours than adults, and they can take a nap anywhere from 16 to 21 hours a day.
Why Do Yorkies Sleep A Lot?
There are several reasons why Yorkies sleep a lot. First, Yorkies are small dogs, and their small size means they have a high metabolism, which requires them to rest more often. Second, Yorkies are bred to be companion dogs, and as such, they do not require a lot of physical activity. Third, Yorkies are known to be sensitive to changes in their environment, and they can become easily stressed, which can lead to them sleeping more. Sources:
Yorkie Sleeping Patterns
Napping and Sleeping Times
Yorkies are known to sleep a lot, and their sleeping patterns can vary depending on their age and health. An adult Yorkie will sleep for 12 to 18 hours a day, including naps, while a puppy can sleep for up to 22 hours a day. It is important to note that Yorkies tend to imitate the sleeping routines of their owners, so if you have a regular sleeping pattern, your Yorkie will likely follow suit.
Sleeping Positions
Yorkies have a variety of sleeping positions that can indicate their mood, comfort level, or health. Some common sleeping positions include curled up in a ball, stretched out on their side, or even sleeping on their back with their legs in the air. It is important to observe your Yorkie’s sleeping position to ensure they are comfortable and not experiencing any discomfort or pain.
Sleeping Environment
Creating a comfortable sleeping environment for your Yorkie is crucial to ensure they get a good night’s sleep. Yorkies prefer a quiet and dark space to sleep in, so consider providing a cozy bed in a separate room or a crate covered with a blanket. Additionally, it is important to keep your Yorkie’s sleeping area clean and free of any potential hazards, such as loose wires or small objects that they could swallow.
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Sleeping Problems in Yorkies
Yorkies are known to sleep a lot, but sometimes they may have sleepspacesroblems. Here are some common sleeping problems in Yorkies:
Insomnia
If your Yorkie is having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, it may be suffering from insomnia. Insomnia can be caused by anxiety, pain, or discomfort. If you suspect that your Yorkie is suffering from insomnia, consult your vet for advice.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition where a dog’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. This can cause your Yorkie to wake up frequently during the night, leading to restless sleep. If you suspect that your Yorkie is suffering from sleep apnea, consult your vet for advice.
Restless Sleep
If your Yorkie is tossing and turning during sleep, it may be experiencing restless sleep. Restless sleep can be caused by pain, discomfort, or anxiety. If you suspect that your Yorkie is experiencing restless sleep, consult your vet for advice.
It is important to address sleep problems in Yorkies as they can lead to other health issues. Your vet can help you identify the underlying cause of your Yorkie’s sleeping problem and recommend the appropriate treatment.
FAQ
Why Do Yorkies Sleep So Much?
One of the reasons why Yorkies sleep so much is that their bodies are small. Small legs and trunks cause more energy expenditure when they move.
For example, a Yorkie trying to attract the attention of its owner has to expend twice as much energy as a large dog.
This returns to him as a double loss of energy. Another reason is hormonal disorders. Dogs with hormonal disorders and thyroid problems can sleep for a long time.
If your Yorkie sleeps longer than it should, there may be some hormonal problemsForome signs that show whether your Yorkie is experiencing illness:
- Hair shedding off in sheets
- The need to drink a lot of water
- Frequent urination
- Weakness
Another reason Yorkies sleep a lot is that they can get sick easily due to their lack of temperature control.
While sick dogs experience high energy losses, their movements slow Sometimestantly feel the need to sleep. In this way, dogs that try to heal and reduce pain and discomfort can sleep for long periods of time.
How Do I Know If My Yorkie Is Overtired?
Fatigue is one of the most obvious symptoms of the need for sleep in Yorkies. Yorkies who want to sleep can be very sedentary and slow.
Of course, if there is a disease involved, this can go as far as exhaustion. An increase in the desire to sleep and blank staring is one of the other symptoms.
A Yorkie who desperately needs sleep may look around blankly and meaninglessly. This shows how sleepless he is.
Also, with an increased need for sleep, Yorkies can experience stress. In addition to stress, anxiety also arises.
Falling asleep suddenly at uncertain times can occur alongside some of the other symptoms. Usually, when they are doing something their head will fall downward and their eyes will close.
Like toddlers, Yorkies can become aggressive and stubborn or over-excited when overtired. This period is usually followed by a ‘crash’ into sleep.
What Should I Do If My Yorkie Sleeps a Lot?
Yorkies can sleep between 12 and 16 hours a day, so if your Yorkie is sleeping around this amount of time then it is best to leave him to rest.
However, if you believe he is sleeping out of boredom and nothing else, you should try something that will catch his attention.
For example, you can get one of the toys he likes to play with and invite him to play with it together. Also, a healthy diet that provides them with the energy they need is always best for Yorkies.
If, after trying all these things, you still cannot get a positive result, it is time to consult your veterinarian.
How Many Hours Does A Yorkie Sleep?
Yorkies are one of the most sleepy breeds despite their relentless energy. Although they are very energetic, they can never say no when it comes to a good nap.
An adult Yorkie can sleep an average of 13-15 hours a day. Baby Yorkies, on the other hand, need more sleep than adults.
Sleep and the right diet are very important for puppies that are in the developmental period. That’s why puppies prefer to sleep whenever they have the chance.
Yorkies can also begin sleeping a lot as they transition from adulthood to old age. Older Yorkies are more sedentary and tend to sleep more.
Where Do Yorkies Like To Sleep?
Yorkies are known for their drowsy twilight. Yorkies are very energetic when they are awake, and they make up for that energy expenditure with good long sleep at night.
The most important thing for Yorkies is a comfortable bed and environment. Yorkies love warm corners in the house.
They may also seek out small space underneath the furniture or under your quilt. This is because they prefer sheltered places as they are small and feel secure there.
Small spaces give them a sense of peace while they rest. In addition, Yorkies love to sleep next to their owners, as they are very attached to them and like to sleep with the ‘pack’.
If you’ve accustomed your dog to sleeping next to you from a young age, they probably won’t want to sleep anywhere else.
How Do I Get My Yorkie To Sleep Through The Night?
In order for your dog to sleep through the night, you need to establish a daily routine with them.
Never feed your Yorkie at least 1 hour before going to bed, and make sure that it is exercised well before going to sleep.
If you do all these things, our Yorkie will spend the night in deep sleep.
Do Yorkies dream?
Yes, your Yorkie can dream. In fact, sometimes their sleep is so deep that you can tell that they are dreaming as they make various sounds and movements.
Yorkies sleep very deeply. These animals, which are energetic all day long, can sleep soundly throughout the night when it comes to sleep.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
