Why Is My Maltese Sleeping So Much [9 Reasons]

Is your Maltese dog sleeping more than usual? As a pet owner, it can be concerning to see your furry friend catching extra sleep.

Before you start worrying, it’s important to understand that dogs, like humans, have different sleeping patterns.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why your Maltese dog may be sleeping so much and when you should start to worry about your pet’s sleeping habits.

Why Is My Maltese Sleeping So Much

Maltese dogs may sleep excessively due to various reasons such as age, health issues, environment, and diet.

Senior dogs tend to sleep more as they age. Health conditions can cause lethargy and excessive sleepiness in dogs.

Boredom or lack of exercise can also cause them to sleep more. A well-balanced diet and proper nutrition can help prevent excessive sleepiness in Maltese dogs.

If you notice a significant increase in sleeping habits, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Normal Sleeping Habits of Maltese

Maltese dogs typically sleep between 12 and 14 hours per day.

However, this can vary depending on factors such as age, activity level, and overall health.

Puppies and older dogs may require more sleep compared to healthy adult Maltese dogs.

It is also common for dogs to take naps during the day, so it is not unusual for a Maltese to take one or more short naps in addition to their long periods of sleep at night.

As with any breed, it is important to monitor your Maltese dog’s sleeping habits and maintain a consistent sleep schedule to ensure their overall well-being.

Reasons your Maltese may sleep more than usual

Here are some common reasons why your Maltese dogs may sleep more than usual:

1. Aging process

Maltese dogs tend to have less energy as they become older and sleep more than usual.

In addition to joint discomfort or other health difficulties, older dogs may become more sleepy due to these factors.

You should provide your elderly Maltese a cozy sleeping spot that is simple to get to in order to make them more at ease.

If your dog has trouble getting onto furniture or beds, think about installing a ramp or stairs.

Make sure their mattress is comfortable and supportive as well.

Additionally, you might want to think about switching to senior dog food that is formulated to meet their needs and gives them the nutrition they require.

Learn more about different Maltese old age problems.

2. Anxiety or stress

It is well known that Maltese dogs are sensitive and susceptible to stress and depression.

Stress and excessive drowsiness might be brought on by regular changes, loud noises, or separation anxiety.

Give your Maltese dog a calm and serene atmosphere to help them handle stress.

Take into account employing soothing supplements, a relaxing collar, or a diffuser.

Additionally, you could try to give your Maltese dog more love and affection to make them feel safer.

Learn more about the causes of Maltese dog separation anxiety.

3. Boredom

Your Maltese may sleep more than normal if they are not receiving enough mental or physical stimulation.

Give your Maltese dog lots of toys and puzzles to keep them cognitively challenged in order to keep them interested and active.

To give your Maltese dog the activity they require, go on walks with them frequently or play fetch with them.

If you can’t spend enough time with your Maltese dog, think about getting a dog walker or putting them in a daycare facility.

Learn more about ways to keep your Maltese happy.

4. Illness

It might be an indication of an underlying sickness if your Maltese appears sluggish and sleeps more than normal.

Hypothyroidism, heart problems, and renal disease are a few frequent Maltese health conditions that can make your Maltese lethargic.

Take your Maltese to the vet right away if you detect any other Maltese sick symptoms, such as nausea, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.

Any underlying health concerns can be identified by your veterinarian, who can also administer the required treatments.

5. Poor diet

Your Maltese dog may experience fatigue and sleepiness if they are not receiving enough nutrients or are eating food that is not right for them.

Consult your veterinarian to make sure your Maltese is receiving a balanced diet.

A high-quality dog food that satisfies your Maltese dog’s nutritional requirements might be suggested by your veterinarian.

Adding vitamins or other supplements to your Maltese dog’s food may also be a good idea to enhance their health and energy levels.

6. Environmental factors

Sleep habits in your Maltese can also be impacted by environmental factors like the weather or temperature.

For instance, your Maltese dog could require more sleep during the winter months to preserve energy and keep warm.

In contrast, your Maltese dog could get sluggish during the warmer months from the heat.

Give your Maltese dog a cozy, climate-controlled resting space to aid in its acclimatization to environmental changes.

Make sure their bedding is adequate for the temperature and change it as necessary to maintain them at a comfortable temperature.

7. Certain medications

Maltese dogs may get sleepy and lethargic after taking some drugs.

Consult your veterinarian if your Maltese is on any drugs to ensure that the medication is not contributing to their excessive drowsiness.

If so, your veterinarian can suggest switching to a different drug or taking a lesser dose.

8. Pain

In order to deal with their discomfort, your Maltese may sleep more than normal if they are in pain.

A number of conditions, including arthritis, dental troubles, or traumas, can lead to pain.

Visit the veterinarian with your Maltese dog for a checkup to treat any discomfort concerns.

Your veterinarian could suggest acupuncture or physical therapy in addition to pain medication.

9. Dehydration

Lack of water intake might cause your Maltese dog to get dehydrated and become lethargic and sleepy.

Make sure your Maltese dog’s water bowl is always supplied with fresh, clean water to encourage them to drink more.

A tiny bit of chicken or beef broth may also be added to their water to give it some taste.

How to help your Maltese get a good sleep

Here are some tips to help your Maltese get a good sleep:

1. Consistent bedtime routine: Establish a regular bedtime ritual for your Maltese, including feeding, walking, and cuddling.
2. Create a comfortable sleeping environment: Provide a warm, cozy, and quiet sleeping place for your Maltese, such as a dog bed in a separate room from distractions.
3. Regular exercise: Regular exercise during the day is beneficial for your Maltese as it can help them get tired and ready for a good night’s sleep.
4. Avoid feeding right before bedtime: Avoid feeding your Maltese right before bedtime as it can make them uncomfortable and keep them awake.
5. Limit water intake before bedtime: Limit your Maltese’s water intake before bedtime to avoid frequent trips to the toilet during the night.
6. Calming activities before bedtime: Engage your Maltese in calming activities before bedtime, such as snuggling or gentle petting.
7. Calming music: Playing calming music can be helpful for some Maltese dogs to fall asleep.
8. Avoid leaving the TV on: Avoid leaving the TV on as it can be stimulating and keep your Maltese awake.
9. Provide comfort items: Provide comfort items for your Maltese to snuggle with, such as a soft toy or blanket, to help them feel secure and relaxed.

Tips to help your Maltese stay awake and not sleep too much

Here are some tips to help your Maltese dog stay awake and not sleep too much:

1. Provide plenty of opportunities for exercise: A Maltese dog is an active breed and needs regular exercise to stay healthy. You can take them for walks, play games with them or take them to a dog park.
2. Keep them mentally stimulated: Provide your Maltese dog with toys and puzzles that will keep them mentally engaged. This will help keep their minds active and prevent them from becoming bored or lethargic.
3. Plan interactive playtime: You can engage your Maltese in games such as fetch or hide-and-seek to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
4. Play music or turn on the TV: Playing music or turning on the TV can help stimulate your Maltese and provide some background activity while they are awake.
5. Keep a consistent routine: A consistent routine can help keep your Maltese dog active and engaged. This can include regular feeding times, playtime, and exercise sessions.
6. Avoid overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and inactivity in dogs, so make sure to provide your Maltese with the appropriate amount of food for their size and activity level.
7. Regular vet check-ups: Regular check-ups with your vet can help identify any health issues that could be causing your Maltese to sleep more than usual.
8. Provide socialization opportunities: Socializing your Maltese with other dogs and people can help keep them mentally stimulated and active.

FAQs

Why does my Maltese dog sleep so much?

It’s perfectly normal for Maltese dogs to sleep a lot, as they are generally low-energy dogs and don’t require as much exercise as other breeds.

Additionally, older Maltese dogs tend to sleep more than younger ones.

However, if you notice a sudden increase in your Maltese dog’s sleeping habits, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to ensure there are no underlying health issues.

How long should my Maltese dog sleep?

Maltese dogs, on average, sleep anywhere from 12 to 14 hours per day.

However, it’s important to note that each dog is different and their sleep patterns may vary based on age, activity level, and individual preferences.

Is it normal for my Maltese dog to sleep during the day?

Yes, it’s completely normal for Maltese dogs to take naps during the day.

In fact, they are known for being lap dogs and often enjoy curling up for a cozy nap during the day.

Should I be concerned if my Maltese dog is sleeping more than usual?

You should observe your Maltese dog’s sleeping habits and ensure that they are eating, drinking, and exhibiting normal behavior.

If your Maltese dog is lethargic, not eating or drinking, or has other signs of illness, then you should consult with your veterinarian immediately.

Can certain health issues cause my Maltese dog to sleep more?

Yes, certain health issues such as anemia, hypothyroidism, and diabetes can cause Maltese dogs to become lethargic and sleep more.

If you have concerns about your Maltese dog’s sleeping habits, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine if there are any underlying health issues.

What can I do to ensure my Maltese dog gets quality sleep?

You can help your Maltese dog get quality sleep by providing a comfortable sleeping area, free from distractions and noise.

Additionally, you can establish a consistent bedtime routine and ensure that your Maltese dog is getting enough exercise during the day to help them sleep more soundly at night.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’ve been wondering why your Maltese dog is sleeping so much, don’t worry! It’s perfectly normal for dogs to sleep a lot.

In fact, adult dogs can sleep up to 12–14 hours a day.

However, if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s sleeping habits or other unusual behaviors, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet.

Remember to give your furry friend plenty of love and attention, and enjoy those cozy moments when they need their beauty rest.