Do Shih Tzu Sleep A lot: Should You Let Them Sleep With You?

Shih Tzus are small, cuddly lapdogs loved worldwide for their affectionate and loyal personalities. But did you know they can sleep up to 18 hours a day? That’s right, these little pups love to snooze, and they’re not afraid to show it.

So why do Shih Tzu sleep a lot? How has this long-haired pup become such an excellent napping companion?

In this blog post, we’ll discuss why your Shih Tzu sleeps a lot and want to share your bed and whether or not you should let them.

Why do Shih Tzu sleep a lot?

There are a few reasons why Shih Tzus sleep so much:

1. Shih Tzus are small dogs

The average weight of a Shih Tzu is between 9 and 16 pounds. It makes them one of the smaller dog breeds. Smaller dogs generally have a higher metabolism and burn energy more quickly than larger dogs. As a result, they tend to sleep more than their larger counterparts.

2. Shih Tzus are bred for companionship

Shih Tzus were originally bred in China for companionship. They were bred to be lapdogs and to provide companionship to their owners. As a result, they strongly desire to be close to their humans and will often follow them around the house or sleep next to them in bed.

3. Shih Tzus have short noses

Shih Tzus have what is known as brachycephalic syndrome, meaning they have short noses and flat faces. It can cause respiratory problems, such as difficulty breathing, snoring, and snorting. It can also lead to overheating, as the short nose does not allow for adequate airflow. Because of this, Shih Tzus need to sleep more than other dog breeds to regulate their body temperature.

4. Shih Tzus are prone to anxiety

Many Shih Tzus suffer from anxiety or separation anxiety when their owners leave them alone. It can lead to destructive behaviors, such as chewing on furniture or urinating inside the house. Sleeping is often a way for anxious dogs to cope with anxiety and feel more relaxed.

5. Shih Tzus are susceptible to health problems

Shih Tzus are susceptible to several health problems, such as respiratory problems, eye problems, allergies, and joint problems. These health problems can be exacerbated by stress, which is why Shih Tzus need to get plenty of rest.

Why does your Shih Tzu sleep with you?

Shih Tzus are relatively inactive indoors, dozing the day away. They are quiet, gentle companion dogs that adapt readily to many different lifestyles and living situations. There are a few reasons why your Shih Tzu may prefer to sleep with you rather than alone in their bed:

1. It’s comforting

Your Shih Tzu may sleep with you because it is comforting. Dogs are social animals and thrive on companionship. When you are away, your dog may feel anxious and stressed. Sleeping with you can help to ease your dog’s anxiety and provide a sense of security.

2. It’s warm

Another reason your Shih Tzu may sleep with you is that it is warm. Dogs are susceptible to cold weather and need a warm place to sleep. Your bed is likely the warmest spot in your house, so it makes sense that your dog would want to sleep there.

3. It’s familiar

Sleeping with you may also be familiar to your Shih Tzu. If you have always allowed your dog to sleep in your bed, then it is likely that sleeping in your bed is what feels normal and comfortable for your dog.

4. You smell good

Your Shih Tzu may also enjoy sleeping with you because you smell good. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and can detect odor at a concentration up to 100 times lower than humans. So, if you smell good to your dog, it makes sense that they would want to sleep close to you.

5. It feels safe

Sleeping in their owner’s bed feels safe and secure for many dogs. It’s especially true for small breeds like Shih Tzus, who may feel vulnerable when left alone. Sleeping in bed can help your dog feel protected and safe from harm.

Should You Let Your Shih Tzu Sleep with You?

If you’re a proud Shih Tzu parent, you may wonder if letting your furry companion sleep in bed with you is okay. On the one hand, there are some benefits to co-sleeping with your pup—but on the other hand, there are some potential drawbacks as well.

1. Benefits of Sleeping With Your Shih Tzu

One of the most obvious benefits of letting your pup sleep in bed with you is that it can help strengthen the bond between pet and owner. Sharing close quarters with your pet teaches them they are safe and secure, which can help ease anxiety or fear.

Sleeping together can also help keep you and your dog warm during cold nights. There are some potential health benefits as well; studies have shown that people who share their beds with their pets sleep better than those who don’t. Having a pet in the bed can help reduce stress levels before bedtime, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Finally, co-sleeping with your pup can provide comfort and security for the pet and the owner.

2. Potential Drawbacks of Sleeping With Your Shih Tzu

Of course, there are some potential drawbacks to consider before allowing your pup into bed with you. For starters, having an animal in the bedroom can lead to added allergens due to fur or dander; this could be problematic if anyone in the home has allergies or asthma.

Additionally, dogs have an instinctive desire to protect their owners—which means they could become overly protective while sleeping near them at night. And finally, having a dog in bed could lead to disruptions like snoring or pacing throughout the night—making it harder for everyone involved to get a good night’s rest.

How Can You Help Your Shih Tzu Get Enough Sleep?

The key to helping your pup get enough rest is creating an environment where he feels safe and secure. Start by setting specific nap times throughout the day, so your pup knows when it is time for them to rest.

Additionally, ensure no distractions, such as loud noises or bright lights; these can easily disrupt your dog’s sleep schedule and cause unnecessary stress and anxiety during naptime.

Finally, ensure your pup has access to plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated; dehydration can also lead to excessive sleeping in humans and animals.

Conclusion

So, do Shih Tzu sleep a lot? Shih Tzus may seem small, but these little pups need a lot of rest! While most adult dogs only require 12-14 hours daily, these special little guys often require closer to 15-18 hours each day due to their unique anatomy and size compared to larger breeds. Fortunately, with careful planning, you can ensure that your pup gets the quality shut-eye they need while having fun during regular playtime sessions throughout the week! With your help and dedication, your Shih Tzu should be able to live a happy and healthy life full of lots of sleepy snuggles!

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