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The Corgi Sleep Guide: (Important advice for owners)

Corgi sleeping habits can confuse even the most experienced owners. Many pup parents report that their corgi is sleeping all the time and have no idea why. Especially the pups!

This article discusses why your corgi might be sleeping more than usual, when to be concerned, and what you can do about it. Let’s get into it!

Is It Normal For Corgis To Sleep a Lot?

Let’s first confirm whether or not it’s “normal” for corgis to sleep a lot.

Ultimately the answer is both yes and no. An extra tired corgi can be justified if they’re a puppy, highly active, or particularly bored.

Still, an adult corgi with a well-rounded routine shouldn’t be sleeping the entire day either.

Corgi puppies & sleeping

Growing corgi puppies will sleep much more than their parents. Puppies can sleep up to 20 hours daily, which would still be considered normal!

Pups sleep this much because they’re growing, and believe it or not, this consumes most of their energy!

Highly active corgis

It’s not just pups that can sleep a lot, corgis that have extra active lifestyles will naturally need to rest more than those who don’t.

Bored or inactive corgis

As it happens, the same excessive sleeping issue can happen when corgis are too docile, lazy, or simply bored.

If your Corgi is left alone for many hours per day and doesn’t get much action, playtime, or training, they’ll resort to sleeping.

corgi sleeping

How Much Should Corgis Sleep?

Adult corgis typically sleep between 8-10 hours per day. Corgi puppies can sleep anywhere between 14-20 hours per day.

If you have an adult corgi that’s sleeping for more than 14 hours per day, it’s worth investigating why. Even highly active corgis likely won’t need this much recovery sleep.

Related: Corgi puppy growth timeline

Do Corgis Get Tired Easily?

Despite having such little legs, corgis have impressive stamina and energy levels. Many owners call their corgis “powerhouses” due to how much they can give every day.

However, it’s important to keep in mind the joints of your corgi. While they may be able to keep going, their short legs and elongated back can get injured easily with overuse.

Corgis can suffer from something called IVDD, which is a serious spinal condition that should be avoided at all costs. This condition can be brought on by jumping up, landing, or walking/running too far.

Related: Are Stairs Bad For Corgis? Complete Answer (Vet-Approved)

Why Do Corgis Sleep on Their Back?

One of the most common sleeping positions for corgis is belly up (sleeping on their backs). But why do corgis sleep on their back?

According to Dr. Travis McDermott from Durango Animal Hospital in Nevada, corgis (like all dogs) usually sleep on the back to cool down.

In addition to cooling down, many dogs find this position comfortable. However, for a dog to assume this position while sleeping, they must feel very happy and comfortable in their environment.

Why Do Corgis Sleep In Weird Positions?

Many owners witness their corgi sleeping in funny and weird positions. Ultimately there’s no reason behind this other than it’s comfortable and relaxing.

If your Corgi is sprawled out showing it all, it signifies they’re comfortable and content in their environment. Although it may be particularly hilarious for us, it’s a reliable sign your corgi is happy.

Additional Info: Nectar Sleep: Dog Sleeping Positions

Knowing When Your Corgi Is Sleeping Too Much

So how do you know if your corgi is sleeping too much or not?

While it may be concerning at first, it’s best to consider your corgi’s age, how active they have been, and whether or not their sleepiness can be easily justified before worrying.

Is your corgi left alone for several hours at a time? Are you there to interact, engage and keep them entertained?

Many dogs will rest and sleep if they have nothing else to do.

It’s also important to watch for additional symptoms including:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Whining
  • Pacifying behavior (licking paws, scratching excessively)
  • Avoidance behavior
  • Food refusal
  • Any sudden changes from normal behavior

If you notice these signs along with excessive sleeping then it’s recommended to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

  • Conclusion: If your corgi is an otherwise healthy adult that receives plenty of interaction, 60 minutes of exercise per day, and is consuming a healthy diet, then they shouldn’t be sleeping for more than 10-12 hours per day.

If they are, then it may suggest an issue with their routine, environment, or health problem.

Related: Puppy sleeps a lot & won’t eat: what to do!

Check out more Corgi articles!



Disclaimer

Before making any decisions that could affect the health and/or safety of your dog, you should always consult a trained veterinarian in your local area. Even though this content may have been written/reviewed by a trained veterinarian, our advice to you is to always consult your own local veterinarian in person. Please read our full dislcaimer if you have any questions.