27/10/2026
💤 Protect your old dogs’ sleep. It matters more than you might think. 🌿
As our dogs get older, a good night’s sleep (and plenty of daytime snoozes!) becomes even more important.
Deep sleep gives their body and brain valuable time to rest, recharge and recover from the day’s activities. So, when your old dog is fast asleep, try to leave them be. As tempting as it might be to give them a cuddle or a pat, let sleeping dogs lie unless you really need to wake them.
This applies to after a Bowen treatment too as it’s when their body and brain processes the work!
A few things you can do to help your old dog sleep comfortably and safely:
🛏️ Give them a comfy place to snooze. A warm, quiet spot where they can sleep without being disturbed is ideal. Choose a supportive bed that isn’t too hard or so soft and squishy that they struggle to push themselves up to stand up. Getting up can be hard enough when those old joints are stiff and sore!
👧🐕 Make sure everyone knows the rules. If you have children or other dogs in the house, teach them that when your old dog is sleeping, they’re not to be disturbed. Older dogs need their rest, and being startled awake can be unsettling, particularly if they’re stiff, sore or a little confused when they first wake.
💗 Learn what normal deep sleep looks like. Their breathing should generally be relaxed and regular, with their chest gently rising and falling. Some dogs might even give you a little snore! Knowing what’s normal for your dog makes it easier to recognise when something doesn’t seem quite right.
🤫 Need to wake them? Make it gently. Older dogs can be startled if woken suddenly, especially if their hearing or vision isn’t what it used to be. Avoid touching them unexpectedly or leaning straight over them. Instead, approach calmly, speak softly or stomp your foot on the floor near them (for the vibrations) and give them a moment to wake up and realise you’re there. You can also try gently blowing on them or holding a tasty treat nearby to get their attention. 🌬️
Our oldies deserve a little extra patience and consideration. ❤️ Sometimes, one of the kindest things we can do for them is simply let them sleep.
🐾 I’d love to hear from you! What helps your older dog get a comfortable, undisturbed night’s sleep? Share your tips below. You might have something that makes another senior dog’s life that little bit easier! 💕
Photo: Our almost 18 year old boy 🥰
Cheers,
Helen
Curly Tails Bowen & Animal Therapy
