Do Lurchers Sleep A Lot?

Lurcher is a designer cross-breed that is quiet, aloof, and sensitive. They are very active and fast except when asleep. After all the physical activities and running, they do sleep a lot. Lurchers are very lazy at heart. They like nothing more than to cozy up on a comfy bed and snooze in a warm home.

Lurchers often sleep very deeply with their eyes open. They frequently sleep at interesting angles and in weird positions. Sometimes, a sleeping Lurcher is completely upside down with all four legs in the air.

When Lurchers sleep, their heart rate drops and their breathing slows down. If you observe closely, you will see their eyes rolling around under their eyelids. Lurchers are hounds, their instincts and senses are always on high alert, even when they are sleeping. They will wake up very easily. The slightest noise and the littlest disturbance will awaken them.

Related Reading: Can Lurchers Be Left Alone? [ANSWERED]

How Much Do Lurchers Sleep?

Like any good fur parent, you must be concerned about your Lurcher’s wellbeing and sleep requirements. Most Lurchers will pretty much follow their own sleep patterns. Just like humans, your Lurcher goes through different stages of sleep.

How much does an adult Lurcher sleep?

Lurchers usually sleep around 15 hours a day. This sleep time is a combination of naps throughout the day in addition to sleeping at night.

A Lurcher who is left alone at home will be sleeping more. This is because what else is there for a bored Lurcher to do?

How much does a Lurcher puppy sleep?

Lurcher puppies can tire very easily. They can sleep between 18 and 20 hours a day. Just like human babies, their bodies are growing and their brains are developing.

Let your Lurcher puppy sleep as much as it wants. Don’t keep disturbing the fur baby by picking it up and stroking it. As time goes by, your puppy will start to explore its environment but good sleep is still crucial for it.

How much does a senior Lurcher sleep?

Senior Lurchers and sick dogs often require more sleep than healthy adult dogs. This because of boredom and lack of stimulation. 

A senior Lurcher will prefer to just sit by your feet in companionable silence and calm. It will nap on and off throughout the day for a total of 16 to 18 hours. 

They often have mobility issues like arthritis or hip dysplasia. Make sure your senior Lurcher has a warm and comfy bed to rest its old bones. However, they will still require some mental and physical stimulation.

Reasons why your Lurcher is sleeping less

The problem can range from stress to more severe problems. Decreased sleep in Lurchers can be a sign of:

• Lack of exercise
• Anxiety and stress
• Behavioral changes with age and cognitive dysfunction

Reasons why your Lurcher is sleeping more

Excess sleep or lethargy in Lurchers may be linked to one of several conditions, such as:

• Depression
• Hypothyroidism
• Deafness
• Diabetes
• Weakness and weight loss 

Tips to help dogs sleep

We all know that good sleep is important for your dog. The amount of sleep time in dogs varies among different breeds, ages, physical activity levels, health, and sleeping area.

Here are some useful tips that you can try to help your dog sleep.

Set up a routine

Establish a predictable routine for your dog. A routine for nighttime sleep is helpful both for dogs and their owners. The daily routine includes mealtime, potty time, exercise time, rest time, training time, and playtime. This will help them to spend the remaining time for a nap and playing with favorite toys. They will be able to recognize when it’s time for bed.

Maintaining a fixed routine is a bit more difficult on weekends and holidays but you should try and stick to your routine as closely as possible.

Give your dog plenty of exercises

Always remember to give your dog plenty of physical activity. This physical exertion will tire down your dog. They will probably sleep or lie down and can lead to a night of uninterrupted rest.

Exercise requirements of dogs vary with breed, climate, and size. A long walk before bed is a great way to ensure a good night’s sleep for you and your fur baby.

Don’t share your bed

It is beneficial for your dog to go to the same place to sleep every night. Dogs should have a bed of their own to sleep and relax.

If you are allergic to dogs, it’s always best that your furry friend sleeps somewhere else and not in your bed.

Consider their sleeping environment

Dogs have unique sleep needs and require a warm and comfortable area for sleeping. You must provide a comfortable and secure area to sleep for your furry friend. 

A comfy dog bed protects your dog against extreme temperatures and provides cushioning for a restful sleep. A quality bed accompanied by a warm blanket will help your dog sleep in no time. 

Check out any medical conditions

If your dog is unable to sleep properly, it might be due to any underlying medical conditions. This is often applicable to senior dogs who usually have arthritis or other health issues. Some medication might help your dog sleep.

If your dog can’t sleep properly due to anxiety, consider natural sleep aid supplements. They are a great way to relieve anxiety and aid in good sleep. 

Final Thoughts 

Lurchers love their runs, but they equally love their naps! They are often couch potatoes and love cuddling on a couch, bed, or any other comfortable spot. After hours of playing and exercise, your dog needs well-deserved rest. 

If you identify significant or prolonged changes in your dog’s sleep, it is best to consult your veterinarian. Experts can provide a clear diagnosis and treatment plan to help your dog. After all, your dog deserves only the best! 

Hope you enjoyed reading this article! Feel free to share your thoughts and questions. We would be happy to hear from you!