Puppies sleep a lot more than adult dogs. On average, puppies sleep 18–20 hours per day, especially during their first few weeks of life. While this may seem like a lot, it’s completely normal. However, if your puppy is sleeping excessively and is not interested in food, it may indicate an underlying issue.
There are several reasons puppies need so much sleep. Not eating as much is also common in young puppies. This outline covers the top 10 reasons puppies sleep more and eat less, along with solutions.
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Puppy Not Eating and Sleeping a Lot? 10 Reasons and Solutions
If your puppy is not eating and seems to be sleeping a lot, there could be a few reasons for this behaviour. Firstly, the puppy may be experiencing a change in environment or routine, causing stress and appetite loss. Additionally, the puppy may be feeling unwell, experiencing nausea, dental issues, or even an underlying health problem. Another reason could be that the puppy is not getting enough exercise and therefore doesn’t feel hungry.
Solutions for addressing these issues include providing a comfortable and secure environment for the puppy, addressing any health concerns with a vet, and ensuring the puppy gets enough physical activity to stimulate their appetite. It’s important to monitor the puppy’s behaviour and consult with a veterinarian if the lack of eating and excessive sleeping persists.
1. Stomach Upset and Digestive Issues
If a dog is experiencing stomach upset and digestive issues, it may be a sign of a larger underlying problem. The dog may be lethargic, refuse to eat, and have frequent bouts of diarrhea or vomiting. In severe cases, the dog may even sleep all day and show signs of discomfort.
It is important to seek veterinary care to determine the cause of these issues and provide proper treatment. A thorough examination and potentially some diagnostic tests may be necessary to identify the root cause of the problem and ensure the dog’s overall health and well-being.
2. Illness
It is not uncommon for puppies to experience a loss of appetite and increased sleep due to illness, stress, or changes in routine. Common causes of these symptoms include parvovirus, distemper, and kennel cough. If a puppy is sleeping more than usual and seems uninterested in eating, it could be a sign of a potentially serious illness.
It is important to closely monitor their behaviour and seek veterinary care if necessary to address any underlying health concerns. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the puppy’s chances of recovery.
3. Anxiety, Stress, and Depression
Anxiety, stress, and depression can all have a significant impact on our dogs physical and mental well-being. When feeling anxious or stressed, it can be difficult to relax, and these feelings can often lead to depression if not properly managed.
One common symptom of all three is disrupted sleep patterns. Many puppies with anxiety and depression struggle to sleep, while some may sleep too much as a coping mechanism.
On the other hand, stress can lead to both insomnia and excessive sleeping. Furthermore, changes in appetite can also occur, such as when a dog is stressed or depressed; they might not eat much, just like a puppy that is not feeling well. It’s important to address these symptoms and seek help from a healthcare professional when needed.
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4. Dental Problems & Teething
Your puppy’s sleepiness and lack of appetite may be due to various factors, but one common reason is dental problems and teething. Puppies go through a teething phase where their baby teeth start to fall out and their adult teeth start to come in, which can be uncomfortable and cause them to not want to eat.
Additionally, dental issues such as gum inflammation or tooth pain can also contribute to a lack of appetite and sleeping more than usual. It’s important to keep a close eye on your puppy’s eating and sleeping habits during this time and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about their dental health.
5. Fading Puppy Syndrome
Fading Puppy Syndrome is a devastating condition that can affect seemingly healthy newborn puppies within the first two weeks of life. The puppies may exhibit symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, poor appetite, and difficulty regulating their temperature.
Congenital defects, infections, or inadequate maternal care can cause this syndrome. Unfortunately, the exact cause of Fading Puppy Syndrome is not always clear, making it difficult to prevent. Breeders and veterinarians may attempt to provide supportive care for affected puppies, but the prognosis is often poor.
It is a heartbreaking reality for many dog owners who must watch their puppies struggle with this syndrome, and efforts to raise awareness and research about it are essential in order to potentially save the lives of these innocent animals.
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6. Nature’s Schedule
It is not uncommon for puppies to have irregular eating and sleeping patterns. Puppies tend to sleep a lot, sometimes up to 20 hours a day, and they are usually more active at dawn and dusk. Therefore, it is not unusual for a puppy to not eat much during the day and then sleep a lot.
Puppies are still adjusting to their new environment, and their bodies are growing and changing rapidly, so their schedules may not always align with what we expect. It is important to observe the puppy’s behaviour and consult with a veterinarian to ensure that there are no underlying health issues causing the lack of appetite or excessive sleep.
As the puppy grows, their eating and sleeping patterns may also change, so it’s important to be patient and understand their nature’s schedule.
7. Poisoning or Reactions to Medication
Yes, it is a cause for concern if your puppy is not eating much, as it may indicate an underlying health issue or lack of appetite. Additionally, if your puppy is also sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign of poisoning or a reaction to medication. Both of these situations require immediate attention from a veterinarian.
There are several reasons why your puppy may not be eating, including dental problems, digestive issues, or even stress or anxiety. It’s important to monitor your puppy closely and take note of any changes in their behaviour. If you suspect poisoning or a medication reaction, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately to ensure the health and well-being of your pet.
8. Puppy not eating and sleeping may be Pain
If your puppy is not eating and sleeping excessively, it may be a sign of pain. Dogs often exhibit changes in their behaviour when they are in discomfort. It’s important to monitor their food intake and sleeping patterns to determine if something is wrong.
A lack of appetite and increased sleepiness could indicate that your puppy is not feeling well. Pain or illness can cause a dog to lose interest in their food and sleep more than usual.
If you notice these signs, it’s crucial to take your puppy to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, try offering different types of dog food to see if they show interest, and create a comfortable environment to help your puppy feel rested and calm.
9. Parasitic, Bacterial, and Viral Infections
Parasitic, bacterial, and viral infections are common health issues in both humans and animals. Intestinal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms are a frequent concern among dogs. A study found that 58% of sampled dogs had at least one intestinal parasite.
These parasites can cause serious health problems and even death if left untreated. Additionally, external parasites such as fleas and ticks can also transmit harmful diseases to dogs. Proper deworming and flea and tick prevention are essential for the health and well-being of pets.
Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive measures are crucial in controlling and preventing parasitic, bacterial, and viral infections in animals.
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10. Puppy not eating and sleeping during Growth Spurts
It’s normal for a puppy to not eat as much and sleep so much during growth spurts. Sleep allows the puppy’s body to grow and develop, which is why they may seem more interested in sleep than food. If your dog is sleeping a lot and not eating as much, it could be a sign that they are going through a growth spurt.
During these periods, a puppy’s energy is focused on growing, so they may not have as much of an appetite. It’s important to ensure that they are still getting the nutrients they need, so offering them smaller, more frequent meals may be helpful. Keeping an eye on their weight and seeking the advice of a veterinarian can provide reassurance that these changes are a normal part of a puppy’s development.
Top 5 Reasons Puppy is Eating Less
1. Teething Pain Reduces Appetite
Puppies begin teething at around 3–4 months old. Their gums become inflamed and sore as new teeth begin pushing through. This teething discomfort can make eating painful or unappealing. Hard kibble may hurt their sore gums. The teething phase lasts until around 6–7 months old. During this time, appetite fluctuations are normal.
2. Slowing Growth Rate and Metabolism
In the first few months of life, puppies are growing rapidly. Their metabolisms are very fast, as their bodies need immense energy to fuel growth. As puppies begin to age around 6–8 months old, their growth and metabolism start to slow. With less demand for energy, their appetite decreases naturally. This is a normal part of their development into adulthood.
3. Picky Eating Behaviour Emerges
Young puppies are open to all foods and will eat whatever is available. But at around 6–10 months old, picky eating behaviours may arise. As they explore new foods and textures, preferences form. A puppy may reject a food they happily ate before. Picky eaters may skip meals or eat less. This is normal as they develop likes and dislikes.
4. Intestinal Parasites Can Reduce Appetite
Worms like roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms are common internal parasites in puppies. An intestinal worm burden can decrease appetite, as it robs nutrition from the puppy. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, a dull coat, and weight loss may also occur. Deworming medication clears the parasites, returning appetite to normal.
5. Stress from Changes Causes Inappetence
Puppies get stressed with big changes, like a new home. Stress hormones released in the body cause a decrease in hunger. This stress-induced inappetence is temporary until the puppy adjusts. Making changes gradually helps reduce puppy stress levels.
What To Do If Puppy is Sleeping Too Much
Check for Signs of Illness and See the Vet
Excessive sleeping can indicate sickness in puppies. Look for other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, or difficulty waking. Have the puppy examined by a veterinarian to check for issues like infections, parasites, illnesses, or nutritional deficiencies. Testing, like a blood panel, can uncover health problems.
Let the Puppy Sleep Unless Symptomatic
If the puppy seems healthy overall, let them sleep. Puppies need extra sleep for development, so don’t force them to stay awake. Forcing a tired puppy to play or train will cause more stress. Sleep is essential, so allow rest.
Maintain Proper Day/Night Schedule
Puppies sleep better with inconsistent schedules or lack of daylight. Ensure the puppy gets daylight exposure in the mornings to help set their circadian rhythms. Establish a proper bedtime at night and an awake time in the mornings. Consistency helps promote healthy sleep patterns over the long term.
Provide Stimulating Exercise and Training When Awake
Make the most of the puppy’s awake times. Take them for walks, play games, and provide positive reinforcement training sessions. Both physical and mental exercise will tire the puppy in a healthy way. A well-exercised puppy will sleep soundly.
Rule Out Environmental Reasons for Excessive Sleep
Check if external factors are causing more sleep. Things like overly warm temperatures, stuffy air, loud noises, or uncomfortable bedding can all lead to restlessness. Optimize the puppy’s sleep area and see if sleep normalizes. If not, vet check.
How to Encouraging Puppy to Eat More
- Transition puppy slowly to new food over 5-7 days.
- Hand feed portions of food for added encouragement.
- Try moistening kibble with warm water to increase aroma and taste.
- Add small amounts of tasty wet food or broth to dry kibble.
- Use specially designed puppy feeding toys to pique interest.
- Rule out illness by having the vet examine mouth and run tests.
- Avoid changing puppy’s food often. Stick to one brand for a few weeks.
When to Consult a Veterinarian About Your Puppy Not Eating
See the veterinarian if puppy shows these signs:
- Sleeping over 20 hours in a 24 hour period
- Lethargy and listlessness
- Decreased appetite beyond 2-3 days
- Significant weight loss
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Difficulty waking up
- Loss of interest in toys or training
Conclusion: Why Is My Puppy Not Eating Much and Sleeping a Lot?
In summary, puppy sleeping a lot and not eating much is common. But there are important health reasons to watch for. Make sure excessive sleepiness and appetite changes don’t indicate illness. With patience helping ease transitions, your puppy will grow out of these behaviors. Consistency is key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: At what age do puppies need less sleep?
A: Around 4-5 months old puppy’s sleep needs decrease to about 14-16 hours per day. Adult dogs sleep 12-14 hours.
Q: Should I wake my puppy to eat?
A: No, let sleeping puppies lie. Waking them to eat causes more harm than good.
Q: Are there breeds of puppies that need more sleep?
A: Yes. Large and giant breeds like Danes, Mastiffs and St. Bernards sleep more as puppies.
Q: Can I train my puppy even if he sleeps a lot?
A: Absolutely. Use awake times for training. Sleeping doesn’t mean missing socialization periods.
Q: When does puppy sleep consolidate to nighttime?
A: Around 3-4 months old puppies begin sleeping more at night as their schedule matures.
Why is my puppy so sleepy and not hungry?
The most common reasons are normal puppy behavior. Puppies need lots of sleep for growing, so 18-20 hours of sleep per day is normal. Appetite fluctuations also happen as they develop. Look for other signs of illness and see your vet if concerned.
Why is my 8 week old puppy lethargic and not eating?
Lethargy and loss of appetite in an 8 week old puppy may indicate illness. Puppy’s immune systems are still maturing. Lack of energy and appetite can signal infections, viruses, parasites etc. Have your vet examine the puppy right away.
How do puppies act when they are sick?
Sick puppies often act sleepy, lethargic, sad, and have little interest in food or play. Vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, and discharge from eyes/nose can also occur. Weight loss, inability to digest food, and dehydration may happen. Seek veterinary care immediately.
Let me know if you need any other common puppy health questions covered! Providing thorough FAQs helps puppy owners identify potential problems early.
