A 16-week-old puppy sleeps an average of 11 - 14 hours or more per day. Younger puppies need 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day to support their developing bodies and brains.

Importance of good sleep in puppyhood

Sleeping or resting is essential for puppies. Puppies grow better when they get ample sleep during their puppyhood. When they sleep, they rest, recharge and refresh themselves. Puppy’s whiz around, using up a bunch of energy and building muscles and brain power. Getting extended sleep at night, punctuated by frequent naps, is completely fine. Even as many as 20 naps a day. Puppies grow a lot more quickly than we do. Because of that rapid growth, they need to eat a lot, and they need a lot of sleep.

How to help your puppy sleep better?

Keep the puppy sleeping area quiet and dark. Dogs have circadian rhythms that are influenced by light, so it’s easier for your puppy to sleep at night if it’s dark or dim. It’s also easier for them to sleep if they aren’t being interrupted by excessive noise.

Unfamiliar or busy places, as well as unfamiliar people, can make it harder for your puppy to sleep during the day. To help them get enough sleep, ensure they have periods without activities and access to quiet, familiar territory.

Puppy Beds

Puppy beds are available in a variety of materials that can help puppies to sleep well and to deal with issues such as incontinence, odors, or allergies.

Dogs like to walk in circles a few times before laying down. By turning in circles, dogs take one last look for potential predators before bedtime. It’s actually a form of self-preservation and protection. And the following beds are good options for puppies.

Types of beds suitable for puppies

Donut bed 
Donut bed will be a good choice for your puppy as it makes the puppy feel secure. A donut bed is round or oval-shaped with raised sides. These are great for small dogs that like to sleep curled up. Donut beds help the puppy to stay warm while sleeping.

Nest Bed 

Nest bed is a good choice for cuddling comfort. Similar to donut beds, nest beds also feature high sides. They help to retain heat well, so they’re good for dogs that need a little extra help staying warm at night. 

Cave bed/Tent beds 

Look for a cave-style bed if your puppy  likes to burrow. These beds, with a cave-like arch. The semi-covered design is good for puppies that like to stay warm, covered, and cozy while sleeping. Cave-style beds offer your dog a place to “hide away” if they get stressed out during the day, so they can be good for anxiety-prone dogs.

Note: Before buying a bed, choose a bed that is easy to maintain. Perhaps the most important consideration when choosing a bed for your dog is to pick one that can be easily cleaned. Dog beds need to be cleaned often to control odors, fleas, and dirt. The outer cover should be washed every week or two.