The Importance of Sleep for Dogs: Why Phoebie Needs 16 Hours a Day If you’ve ever watched your dog snooze away the afternoon, you might have wondered, Do dogs really need that much sleep? As it turns out, they do! Sleep is essential to a dog’s physical health, emotional well-being, and overall happiness. My dog, Phoebie, has taught me first hand just how important it is for our furry friends to get the rest they need and why it’s something we as pet owners should prioritize. Why Do Dogs Sleep So Much? Dogs aren’t like humans when it comes to sleep. While we often operate on an eight-hour cycle, dogs need about 12–16 hours of sleep per day, depending on their age, breed, and activity level. Puppies, like Phoebie when she was younger, often sleep even more up to 20 hours! Unlike humans, dogs don’t consolidate all their sleep into one long session. Instead, they nap throughout the day and night. This pattern allows them to recharge and remain alert for short bursts of activity....
Phoebie’s Favourite Toys: The
Ones That Passed the Chew Test
Every dog has their quirks, and
when it comes to Phoebie, her playful personality shines brightest during toy
time. Over the course of her training and daily life, Phoebie has tested a
range of toys—chewing, tugging, and tossing them around. Some didn’t last long
(RIP plush bunny), but a few became instant favourites, earning a special place
in her toy basket. Here’s a rundown of Phoebie’s top picks and why she loves
them.
1. The Indestructible Chew Toy
Phoebie is a chewer, so finding a
toy that can withstand her enthusiastic gnawing was a challenge. Enter the
*KONG Extreme*. Made from ultra-durable rubber, it’s not only tough but also
versatile. I stuff it with peanut butter or freeze it with a mix of her favourite
treats for an extra challenge. Watching Phoebie roll, lick, and chew to get every
crumb is a testament to how much she enjoys it. Bonus: it keeps her occupied
when I’m busy!
Phoebie has a love-hate
relationship with squeaky toys. At first, she barks at the squeak as if it’s
alive, but soon enough, she’s happily pouncing and chewing away. Her *Squeaky
Squirrel* plush toy is her favourite cuddle companion during nap time. While
most plush toys don’t survive her teeth, this one (reinforced with double
stitching) has stood the test of time. It’s her go-to for play and
comfort.
3. The Classic Tennis Ball
No toy list would be complete
without the humble tennis ball. For Phoebie, it’s not just about fetching—it’s
the chase that gets her tail wagging. Her favourite is a set of mini tennis
balls designed specifically for dogs, ensuring they’re non-toxic and easy to
grip. Whether it’s in the park or around the living room, Phoebie’s energy
seems boundless when a tennis ball is involved.
4. The Tug Rope**
Phoebie loves a good game of
tug-of-war, and her braided tug rope is perfect for this. Not only does it
allow for interactive play between us, but it’s also great for her dental
health, helping to clean her teeth while she tugs. I’ve noticed that this toy
brings out her competitive side—she’ll dig her paws in and pull with all her
might, only to wag her tail in triumph when she “wins.”
5. The Puzzle Feeder
Phoebie’s intelligence shines
when she plays with her puzzle feeder. This toy challenges her to nudge, paw,
and flip pieces to uncover hidden treats. It’s a great way to keep her mentally
stimulated, especially on rainy days when outdoor play is limited. Watching her
figure out the puzzle always makes me proud of how smart she is.
Phoebie’s toys are more than just
entertainment—they’re tools for exercise, mental stimulation, and bonding. Each
one reflects her personality: curious, energetic, and loving. While new toys
might join the rotation, these five remain her absolute favourites.
Do you have a pup with their own favourite
toys? Share your recommendations. I’m always on the lookout for new additions
to Phoebie’s collection!
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