It startles me to see my Yorkie sleep so much during the daytime after it has had its long night’s beauty sleep. This behavior was new to me and I started wondering, Why Do Yorkies Sleep So Much?
If you are having similar issues with your Yorkie, then you must probably be wondering the same.
After in-depth research, we have come up with several reasons as to why your Yorkie sleeps so much and what has resulted in this change of sleeping habits.
Why Do Yorkies Sleep So Much?
Normally Yorkies’ sleep depends on their age. A Yorkie pup tends to sleep more than an adult Yorkie for normal functioning of its body.
A puppy sleeps for about 16 to 22 hours, while an adult Yorkie sleeps for about 13 to 18 hours a day including the little naps during the day.
If your puppy is sleeping for long hours, it is quite normal. But if your adult Yorkie feels sleepy for most of the day, it may be because of one of the following reasons.
1. Over Eating
Just like us humans, dogs feel sleepy after having a nice meal. If you put out a favorite dish of your Yorkie, it might end up eating more than usual which is why it may feel sleepy.
2. Excessive Exercise
If your Yorkshire Terrier puppy ends up playing or exercising more than its usual routine, then it will also sleep a bit more than usual until it gets its energy back.
If you want to know about the signs to look for sleep-related disorders, then have a look at this video.
3. Comfort
Your Yorkie is accustomed to sleeping in its bed but it might be possible that the dog bed is not comfortable. This inconvenience can lead your Yorkie to sleep more in the daytime in a cozy corner.
4. Health Issues
If your Yorkshire Terrier is suffering from some health issues, it is probable that your terrier did not get proper sleep at night. For this reason, it tends to cope with its sleep in the daytime.
It is also possible that your pet dog is fighting an illness whose medication makes your Yorkie more prone to sleep. If your pet’s sleeping concerns do not fade down, then go see a veterinarian at the earliest.
Sleeping Habits Of Yorkies
Yorkies have a habit of sleeping at a stretch at night and then at intervals in the daytime. They tend to wake at the sound of unfamiliar voices or if you’re cooking something delicious in the kitchen and the smell is too yummy.
We have already established that a Yorkie puppy sleeps more than an older Yorkie. This is for the proper functioning of their body. If you hear your adult Yorkie snoring then it is because his nap has turned into a deep sleep.
The snoring can also be a result of sleep apnea in which case you must consult a vet and get your dog treated.
1. How Much Do Yorkie Puppies Sleep?
The puppies of this dog breed, like any other, tend to sleep for most of the day for their physical and mental development.
It takes time for a newborn Yorkie pup to adjust to the new environment, which is why they snooze for almost 18 to 22 hours throughout the day.
After 16 weeks, your Yorkie puppy will sleep for 16 to 18 hours minimum, unless it has developed some kind of illness in which case they sleep for more than 20 hours.
Let your puppy sleep in peace and do not disturb it unless required because a good night’s sleep is required for its overall good health.
2. How Much Do Adult Yorkies Sleep?
Adult Yorkies sleep for about 14 to 18 hours including short naps throughout the day. Their naps can last from 2 minutes to an hour.
As your canine companion grows from a puppy to an adult, it will sleep for fewer hours and want to play with you for as much time as possible.
Make sure that you provide a comfortable bed for your dog and place it in a quiet corner where it won’t be disturbed.
You can check out this amazing dog bed for pet dogs that your Yorkie will absolutely love to sleep in.
3. How Much Do Older Yorkies Sleep?
After 10 years of age, your Yorkie will start to sleep more than usual and may also develop some health conditions.
These health issues can interfere with your Yorkie’s sleeping habits, which is why you need to take care of your older dog as much as you can with the help of a vet of course.
As a pet owner, you need to make sure that your Yorkie’s bed or crate is comfortable. If your Terrier’s muscles have become weak, then get an orthopedic bed so that they can feel relaxed after the daily chores.
Have a look at this comfortable orthopedic bed for your Yorkie which would relieve him of his pain.
Do Yorkies Get tired easily?
Yorkies tend to sleep a lot, but when they wake up, they are full of energy. They play a lot and jump around you all the time. It is not very likely for Yorkies to get tired easily.
However, if you are giving him some special training that requires a lot of exercise, then your Yorkie may feel tired. Give your Yorkie time to adjust to the new routine and become stronger at such times.
