How Much Sleep Does a Puppy Need? Why Rest is Just as Important as Play

At Pets In The City, we’re often asked:
"Will my puppy get to play all day at daycare?"

It’s a fair question—after all, most dog owners want to see their pups happy, social, and having a blast. But here’s something many don’t realise: puppies need a lot more rest than you might think.

In fact, a healthy puppy can need up to 18–20 hours of sleep per day! That’s more than a newborn baby—and it’s essential for their growth, brain development, and behaviour.

Why Is Rest So Important for Puppies?

Sleep isn’t just downtime—it’s when a puppy’s brain and body process everything they’ve learned. From social skills to toilet training, playtime to basic commands, sleep is when it all soaks in.

Without enough rest, puppies can become overtired and cranky. Common signs of an overtired puppy include:

• Excessive biting or mouthing

• Hyperactivity and constant zoomies

• Barking, whining, or difficulty settling

• Trouble learning new commands

That’s why rest is just as important as play in a puppy’s day.

Can Puppies Rest at Daycare?

At Pets In The City, we understand that puppy rest and sleep needs are critical for healthy development. Our dog daycare environments are designed to give dogs the right balance of safe, supervised play and opportunities for quiet rest.

Here’s what we provide:
✅ Cosy, designated rest areas for naps
✅ Structured play sessions with breaks
✅ Supervised interactions that help pups settle and recharge

Every dog is unique—some are natural nappers, while others need a little encouragement to slow down. We do our best to create an environment where rest is encouraged, but we also know that a puppy’s sleep needs can vary.

How You Can Support Your Puppy’s Sleep at Home

To help your puppy get the rest they need, here are a few simple tips:
🐾 Consider shorter daycare sessions (half-days) for young puppies
🐾 Keep evenings calm to help your puppy wind down
🐾 Create a cosy, quiet space at home for naps
🐾 Recognise signs of overtiredness and encourage rest

When you combine daycare enrichment with quality rest at home, you’re giving your puppy the best chance to thrive.

Want to Learn More?

At Pets In The City, we believe in a balanced approach to puppy care—play, learning, rest, and fun, all working together for your dog’s wellbeing.

If you’d like to know more about how dog daycare in Auckland can support your puppy’s development, or if you’re interested in puppy training options to help your dog build confidence and good manners, check out our Dog Training programmes here.

Have questions? Reach out to our team anytime—get in touch with us here. We’re always happy to help.