My Chihuahua Sleeps So Much – Top 3 Reasons Why
Owning a Chihuahua is a rewarding experience and a lot of fun, but there are certain traits about Chihuahuas that you should be aware of before you begin your adventures with your new pet. While many traits exist concerning Chihuahuas, one trait you might not know about is their ability to sleep quite a bit. We are going to answer all of your questions as to why your Chihuahua is sleeping in the manner that it does.
Why Chihuahuas Sleep So Much
Chihuahuas are a very energetic breed, especially as puppies, so it’s natural for them to want to sleep more often than some other breeds once they are worn out from playing. Getting enough exercise each day is important for Chihuahuas. The older your Chihuahua gets, the more easily they will tire after some moderate exercise, and then they will begin to sleep more.
1. It’s Normal Behavior for Chihuahua Puppies
Puppies in general are going to sleep way more than a mature adult Chihuahua so you shouldn’t worry if your puppy is sleeping nearly the entire day. Energetic and full-of-life is often how we describe puppies of nearly all breeds, but it’s especially true for the Chihuahua puppy. Normal sleeping behavior for a Chihuahua puppy is to sleep about 18 to 20 hours a day.
2. Your Chihuahua is Bored
Every once in a while your Chihuahua might be sleeping because of boredom, although it’s not often times the reason for sleep. A Chihuahua will often sleep when it feels safe. You know your schedule better than anyone, so you should be able to determine whether boredom is the cause of sleep. Usually, boredom in a dog will result in a more anxious behavior, such as chewing on items around your house.
3. Your Chihuahua is Suffering from Illness
A dog sleeping an unusual amount of time could be the result of an illness, so keep an eye out for dramatic changes in sleeping patterns or habits. If you have noticed your dog is sleeping way more than it usually does, it might be time to call the veterinarian to ensure nothing more serious is going on. Your Chihuahua could be sleeping more often due to many different health issues.
The good news is that a change in sleeping habits is not always the result of a serious illness. Sometimes just changing their diet around can be beneficial for sleep. More complex issues could also be the cause, such as a thyroid issue, cancer, or an undiagnosed heart condition.
How Many Hours a Day Does a Chihuahua Sleep?
You may be thinking that your Chihuahua is sleeping more than it should, but in reality a Chihuahua is known for being a big sleeper. A Chihuahua will sleep for 12 or 14 hours a day, although 18 hours is also not uncommon. Your Chihuahua will sleep and wake up more often than a human does. If your Chihuahua is sleeping within that 12 to 18 hour window, you have nothing to worry about because it’s perfectly normal and healthy behavior.
Why Does My Chihuahua Sleep Under the Covers?
A Chihuahua in particular is known to be a burrower, which is why it’s more likely to sleep under the covers. Not only does a Chihuahua do this for entertainment, but also for comfort. Even if it’s not cold in your house your Chihuahua is likely to sleep under the covers because that is where it feels safe. Your dog looks at you like the pack leader so snuggling next to you makes your Chihuahua feel less vulnerable.
I just rescued an abused Chihuahua had her 3months now she’s starting to come around, but still hand shy what can I do to help her
I had this problem, my chihuahua had been around a baby that liked to grab and pull and squeeze her, so she would yelp if touched. It took patience and lots of reassurance, but after a few weeks I could do anything with her. I fully believe that you can win over any chihuahua treats, patience and baby talk. I would touch her very gently very frequently, just to show her that I wouldnt hurt her and it didnt take very long time earn her trust
Hi Roberta,
I too am a Chihuahua Mama! We have 2 long haired chihuahuas, and I agree with dee (February 5, 2020 at 6.57pm)
LOTS of patience, lots of reassurance, lots of baby talk (it doesn’t matter what you say, its all in the gentle and kind tone of your voice) and lots of treats. Don’t take any backwards steps by raising your voice or berating her. And – when you reach this stage – LOTS of hugs.
You would do this for your family or friends, am I right?!
It may take 6 months of continuity, the reward your chi will give you by trusting you will be worth it. Warning : you may cry.
“The smallest things take the biggest piece of our heart”
How is she now? I ask cuz I just got a rescue. 2 years old. Super sweet and loving. But just no energy at all. I try everything. I’m literally about to drug him with some anise seed extract lol.
I was given a 7 month old Chihuahua & since I got her she hasn’t been eating? Should I be worried or something? I’m new to this dog world cause I always had a cat. Please please someone help me out!
Keep trying my chi rescue wouldn’t eat at first. Probly cuz he was surrendered. So I had to make it for him. Recipes online. Google homemade chihuahua food. But now he likes the FreshPet brand at Target little more$ but he’s worth it .
Just be careful they can pack on the lbs. Treats are good but can add wt.
Also when they get hungry enough they come around 😊😉
Give her a little time to adjust to her knew surroundings. Or try to find a food she likes.
I love my rescued Chihuahua that I feel was a baby maker. She is the sweetest dog I’ve ever had. We were bonded in a day and more now
She likes to sleep a lot.
I have a 7 month old girl Chihuahua this is my first time having her I got a family friend of mine for my birthday, So I have had her since she was very small, this is my first time having a chihuahua dog, I’m normally have a Doberman this was my last two dogs, so far she doing ok but lately since the weather has changed she has been sneezing and coughing and I am really concerned. I have been reading about them and it says that they can catch kennel cough? Is this true and if so what can I do about it
Please check with your vet my 4.4 lb Chi has allergies and my vet has me give her children’s Zyrtec.
I absolutely agree that chihuahuas love being baby talked to and pampered to get the best behaviour from them. I had problems feeding my chihuahua but she has been on encore pouch wet food and applaws dry food (order from fetch puppy size pellets) for a while now she loves chicken more than any meat.
Chihuahua loves chicken but keep in mind they also need other nutrients to keep them healthy. Mix it with the chicken.
What part the house should your chihuahua stay in? My wife thinks it’s a good idea by keeping the chihuahua near the bedroom door. I think the chihuahua should in the living room away from the bedroom door.
My chihuahuas are happy to have run of the whole house. But, my home is clean and safe. Nothing bad or toxic for them to get into. I have 2 boys. One, 3, Kane. And one almost 1 CoCo. They are good boys. I spend a lot of time with them. I had a girl, Alex 12, that passed 2 years ago. I miss her everyday. I wasn’t going to get anymore BUT, I LOVE CHIHUAHUAS. And they both needed a home that I could give them.
Hi everyone.
I am a Chi mamma of two for the past 8 years. It has been a real pleasure having these two. Sure we have had our ups and downs learning but at this point these two sleep like champs.
What I have learned, because they are rescue pups. I sprinkle a little probiotic on their kibble (the vet and I have found their favourite). I still hand feed them at night, it’s their comfort. I got them because I wanted them not because I had to. So I baby them. I give them all the luxuries I can. With a little structure that a big personality needs. They have their harness’s, car seats etc. a great life