Great Pyrenees Sleeping: Understanding Their Unique Needs

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Great Pyrenees on Snow
Credit: pexels.com, Great Pyrenees on Snow

The Great Pyrenees is a majestic breed that requires a lot of sleep, typically around 16 to 18 hours a day. This is because they are naturally inclined to conserve energy between periods of intense activity, such as guarding and herding.

One reason Great Pyrenees sleep so much is that they are a primitive breed that has retained many of their ancient instincts. As a result, they have a strong instinct to rest and recharge.

Great Pyrenees are also highly sensitive to temperature and humidity, which can affect their sleep patterns. They tend to sleep more soundly in cooler temperatures, typically around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Explore further: Best All around Dog Breed

Establishing a Bedtime Routine

Encourage sleeping and cuddling on the bed, as it's essential for your Great Pyrenees' happiness.

You can create a cozy sleeping space by providing a comfortable bed and a quiet environment.

A consistent bedtime routine helps regulate your Great Pyrenees' internal clock, making them feel more secure and relaxed.

Promote Bedtime Routine

Close-Up Shot of a Great Pyrenees Dog Standing on the Grass
Credit: pexels.com, Close-Up Shot of a Great Pyrenees Dog Standing on the Grass

To keep your Great Pyrenees happy, encourage sleeping and cuddling on the bed. This helps them feel secure and comfortable.

A consistent bedtime routine is essential for your dog's well-being. It helps them relax and prepare for a good night's sleep.

By associating the bed with positive experiences, you can help your Great Pyrenees view it as a cozy and inviting space. This can lead to a more restful and peaceful sleep for both you and your dog.

Make sure to create a quiet and calm environment for your dog's bedtime routine. This will help them wind down and relax.

For another approach, see: Dog Bed for Great Pyrenees

Working Hard Faints

Great Pyrenees like Zhopa can reach a height of 32 inches and weigh more than 100 pounds.

They are immensely powerful working dogs, originally bred to protect sheep from wolves and other predators in snowy mountain regions in Europe.

After a long shift, Zhopa, the Great Pyrenees, didn't even have the energy to sleep indoors.

Pyrenean Mountain Dog on Field
Credit: pexels.com, Pyrenean Mountain Dog on Field

He would rather sleep on a plot of land, seemingly enjoying the fresh air and freedom.

Even after some encouragement to come inside, Zhopa appears to be reluctant to leave his outdoor spot.

In the end, he does enter the home through his very own door to sleep on the sofa, but not before working hard for his money.

Dog Bed Options

If you're looking for a comfortable place for your Great Pyrenees to snooze, consider a dog bed specifically designed for their large size and thick coat.

Orthopedic foam is a great choice for a dog bed, as it provides the necessary support and pressure relief for a Great Pyrenees' joints.

A Great Pyrenees typically requires a dog bed with a sturdy construction to support their weight, which can range from 85 to 115 pounds.

A Great Pyrenees' thick coat can make them feel warmer than they actually are, so a breathable dog bed with good airflow is essential to prevent overheating.

Understanding Canine Sleep Patterns

Credit: youtube.com, Sleeping Great Pyrenees Puppy

Dogs sleep more than we do, but they also wake up more frequently. Dogs typically sleep in lots of small bursts throughout the day and night.

Dogs aren't usually deep sleepers, they're "flexible sleepers" who can fall asleep anywhere and wake up quickly when needed. This means they need more total sleep to make up for lost REM sleep during their cycles.

They only spend about 10% of their sleep in REM sleep, which is when we dream and get restorative sleep.

Dogs Sleep Differently

Dogs sleep more than we do, but they also wake up more than we do. They typically sleep in lots and lots of small bursts throughout the day and night.

Dogs aren't usually deep sleepers, they're what the AKC calls "flexible sleepers", able to fall asleep wherever and whenever, but still wake up at a moment's notice.

Only about 10% of a dog's sleep is REM sleep, which is when they dream and get restorative sleep. This is compared to 25% for humans, according to the National Sleep Foundation.

Dogs need to get this restorative sleep throughout the day to make up for lost REM during their cycles.

Your Dog's Breed

Credit: youtube.com, Understanding Canine Sleep Patterns: How Much Sleep Does Your Dog Really Need?

Your dog's breed can play a significant role in determining how much sleep they need. Large breeds, like Newfoundlands and mastiffs, often require more sleep than smaller breeds.

Dogs that were bred for specific purposes, such as working breeds, tend to be more alert and awake throughout the day. This is because their jobs require their attention.

On the other hand, dogs that weren't bred for a specific purpose may lead more sedentary lives and end up sleeping more. Great Pyrenees, for example, are known to have a more laid-back lifestyle.

Additional reading: Field Bred English Cocker

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Great Pyrenees mellow out?

Yes, Great Pyrenees are known for their calm and patient nature, making them a great choice for families and first-time dog owners. Their mellow attitude is one of their most endearing qualities.

Jenna Koch

Senior Writer

Jenna Koch is a versatile and passionate writer with a keen interest in exploring various topics. Her writing career has taken off with a focus on informative and engaging content, covering a range of subjects that spark curiosity and interest in readers. Jenna's expertise lies in crafting well-researched and accessible articles that cater to diverse audiences.

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