In a previous post, we explored how feeding schedules can affect housebreaking a puppy. But did you know that feeding schedules can also influence your dog's sleep patterns? It's true! A dog's eating routine plays a significant role in its ability to rest, making it important for pet owners to pay attention to mealtime timing.
Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much?
It might seem like your dog is always sleeping, and you're not wrong to think so. Dogs tend to need more sleep than humans, partly because they get less REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
While humans spend about 25% of their sleep in the REM stage, dogs only reach REM about 10% of the time. To make up for this, they need to sleep more often to achieve adequate rest.
How Feeding Schedules Affect Sleep
Dogs thrive on routine. In the wild, their ancestors followed a consistent daily rhythm, which modern dogs have inherited. Feeding schedules play a crucial role in maintaining this rhythm and can influence your dog’s sleep quality in several ways:
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Eating Too Close to Bedtime
Feeding your dog late in the evening can lead to nighttime bathroom needs, disrupting both their sleep and yours. Avoiding late-night meals can help ensure uninterrupted rest for everyone. -
Activity and Drowsiness
Dogs’ energy levels are linked to their activity and eating habits. Free feeding (leaving food out all day) can lead to unpredictable energy spikes and naps, throwing off their natural rhythm. A set feeding schedule helps stabilize their energy and sleep cycles.
The Role of Food in Digestion and Sleep
The type of food you feed your dog also impacts how well they rest after meals. Digesting standard kibble can be harder on a dog’s system, particularly when they lie down shortly after eating.
Cold-pressed dog food, like Nextrition, is made with natural ingredients and pressed together at low temperatures into easily digestible pieces. This type of food supports smoother digestion and better nutritional absorption, reducing discomfort that could interfere with your dog’s sleep.
Optimizing Your Dog’s Feeding and Sleep Routine
To help your dog get the best rest possible, consider these tips:
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Feed at Consistent Times
Stick to a predictable schedule that aligns with your dog’s natural circadian rhythm. For most dogs, the peak rest time is between 9 PM and 6 AM, so plan meals accordingly. -
Avoid Late-Night Meals
Try not to feed your dog too close to bedtime. This minimizes the chance of needing nighttime potty breaks and ensures their digestion doesn’t disrupt sleep. -
Choose Easily Digestible Food
Opt for cold-pressed dog food or similar options that are gentler on the digestive system. This can help prevent discomfort during sleep. -
Match Feeding to Activity
Balance feeding times with your dog's activity level to avoid unnecessary drowsiness during the day and promote more restful sleep at night.
A Rested Dog Is a Happy Dog
Like humans, dogs benefit from consistent routines that align with their natural circadian rhythms. By combining a healthy feeding schedule with a high-quality, easily digestible diet, you can help your dog sleep better, stay more active, and lead a healthier life.
If you're ready to optimize your dog's feeding and sleep habits, consider trying Nextrition cold-pressed dog food. It’s a delicious and gut-healthy option that promotes digestion and overall well-being.
