Q: "Why does my dog sleep so much? He seems kind of lazy. He's not fat and when he wants to, he has plenty of energy. It's just that sometimes we can't wake him up very easily and he snores, sleeps upside down, and dreams a lot. What's his deal? Is he lazy or should I be worried?"--from Frank's dad in Sierra Madre
"Naps are cool"
Bicycle: How old is this guy? He sounds like we could be related. It doesn't sound like such a bad life to live...sleep all day, toss a ball for a few, sleep some more, dream, drool...I'm in! You know, there are a lot of factors that go into trying to figure a dog out. Age, food, body condition, health issues, excercise level, environment, etc. all have a say in how your dog acts, and his energy level.
This guy, Frank, sounds just like me. I thought you were my mom writing in for a second. I sleep a lot, snore, drool, dream, and, yes, you can find me upside down most days from 10am to 4pm. I'm about 50 lbs., 10 3/4 years old, have bad hips & back, and I like to lounge...I'm kind of an old dude and that's what we do. I was always a sleeper, though. Been mellow my whole life and just play when I feel like it. That's me, though.
Back to frank...if he is older, expect some slowing down. Have him checked for arthritis, because that's what happens to us. And a blood test wouldn't hurt, either. Vets can find some crazy stuff that I would never think of...thyroid, for example....what the heck is that? But, if he's younger, he might just be a mellow kind of kid. If you live a relaxed lifestyle, so will your dog.
I guess what I'm getting at is that you know your dog better than anyone so if you've noticed a drastic difference in his behavior or activity, get him checked out. Or if he's older and hasn't had a check up within the last 6 months, it can't hurt. If he's just a mellow Sleepy Sleeperson, then grab your camera and take the opportunity to put sunglasses on him and start a blog.
Hope I helped. Send me an email and let me know how it goes bicycle@twodogspaws.com or if you have anymore questions.
With many sloppy dog kisses,
Bicycle
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Q: "How come some dogs hate being brushed, ears cleaned, teeth brushed, etc.,
while other dogs just love it all?"--from Cocoa's mom in Arcadia
"Just vaccuum me...please!"
Bicycle: Well, I can only speak for myself in that I love any affection my mom gives me cuz I adore her and she's very gentle. So, I enjoy being brushed because it feels great! I don't mind having my ears cleaned, but it tickles sometimes, so it's not my favorite thing. And, as far as my teeth being brushed...well, I love it because the toothpaste is super yummy. Don't tell my mom, but I once tried to eat a whole tube and haven't seen it since. I think she hid it from me.
I also have been conditioned to let the vet, the techs, or my mom do what they need to do to keep me as healthy and happy as possible...really, since I was a pup. It made a big difference in how accepting I am of all that doctor stuff.
Please realize that I am not exactly the most normal dog...I mean, I love to be vaccuumed! The bigger the vaccuum, the more I like it...bring on the shop vac!
I hope this helps you understand how very different we all are...and if you'd like some tips on how to perform the everyday doggie maintenance tasks, let me know...
With many sloppy dog kisses,
Bicycle
To send Bicycle a question, just send him an email : bicycle@twodogspaws.com
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