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Dog Training Expert Reveals the Direct Impact of Rest and Sleep on a Pet's Behavior, Offering Tips for Boosting Canine Sleep Quality

Canines require more slumber than humans, and a lack of it could potentially lead to various repercussions.

The expert discloses the role that repose and slumber play in shaping your canine's demeanor,...
The expert discloses the role that repose and slumber play in shaping your canine's demeanor, together with practical suggestions to enhance their sleep quality.

Dog Training Expert Reveals the Direct Impact of Rest and Sleep on a Pet's Behavior, Offering Tips for Boosting Canine Sleep Quality

In a recent Instagram post, Juliana DeWillems, the certified dog trainer and founder of JW Dog Training & Behavior, shed light on the importance of sleep for our canine companions. Sleep plays a crucial role in a dog's overall health and behaviour.

Adult dogs typically sleep around 12-16 hours a day, but this can vary for puppies and senior dogs who may require more rest. Lack of sleep can contribute to behavioural issues such as increased anxiety, fear, reactivity, mouthiness, barking, and an inability to settle.

To help your pup get the sleep they need, DeWillems advises keeping a consistent routine with designated nap times. Balancing physical exercise with licking and sniffing enrichment that encourages calm behaviours is also recommended. A white noise machine can help block out sounds that may interfere with a dog's ability to relax and sleep.

Closing the blinds or curtains can help your pup not be as distracted by potential triggers outside or disturbed by daylight in the morning. Ensuring that a dog has enough space to change position and switch up where they're sleeping is also important.

If your dog likes to sleep near you but it's interfering with your own sleep, there's a way to get a dog to sleep in a different room. The Frisco Faux Suede Bolster Dog Bed, available at Chewy, can help your pup get the sleep they need. It's machine washable for easy cleaning.

Remember, rest and sleep are vital for dogs, but it's not always easy for them to get the shut-eye they deserve. Excessive sleeping could indicate an underlying health issue, so it's always a good idea to consult with a vet if you notice any unusual changes in your dog's sleep patterns.

By making these simple changes, you can help your dog get the correct amount of sleep for them, leading to a happier, healthier pup. So, let's prioritise our dogs' sleep and watch them thrive!

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