Author: Simple Pet Answers

Yes — nighttime whining can be normal for some dogs, especially in certain situations.

Dogs often become more vocal at night when the house is quiet and distractions are reduced.

Common reasons dogs whine at night

Seeking attention: Dogs may whine if they want company or reassurance.

Routine changes: New schedules, environments, or sleeping arrangements can trigger whining.

Excess energy: Dogs that haven’t had enough activity during the day may struggle to settle.

Noise sensitivity: Sounds that humans ignore can be more noticeable at night.

Is nighttime whining a problem?

If your dog whines briefly and then settles, this is usually not a concern.

Many dogs vocalise occasionally as part of normal communication.

When whining may be worth noticing

Whining may need attention if it:

• Happens every night
• Sounds distressed rather than brief
• Is new and persistent

Reassuring takeaway

Occasional whining at night is common and often linked to routine or comfort.

If your dog otherwise behaves normally during the day, nighttime whining is usually not a serious issue.

Yes — it is very common for dogs to shake after walks, and in most cases it is completely normal.

This behaviour often looks dramatic but is usually just your dog resetting their body after activity.

Why dogs shake after walks

Dogs may shake for several simple reasons:

Drying off: Even without rain, moisture and damp air can build up in their coat.

Releasing tension: Shaking helps dogs relax their muscles after excitement or exertion.

Temperature adjustment: Dogs may shake when moving between warm and cool environments.

Stimulation release: Walks involve smells, sounds, and movement, and shaking can be a way to reset.

Is shaking a sign of stress?

Occasional shaking after a walk is usually not a sign of stress, especially if your dog then settles normally.

If shaking happens briefly and stops on its own, it is generally harmless.

When shaking may need attention

It may be worth paying attention if shaking:

• Happens constantly or without stopping
• Occurs indoors with no obvious trigger
• Is combined with limping or discomfort

Reassuring takeaway

A quick shake after a walk is a normal behaviour for many dogs.

If your dog seems comfortable and relaxed afterwards, this behaviour is usually nothing to worry about.

Yes — for many dogs, sleeping a large part of the day is completely normal. Dogs naturally sleep much more than humans, especially when they feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable at home.

What often feels like “sleeping all day” is usually a mix of deep sleep and light dozing.

How much sleep is normal for dogs?

Most adult dogs sleep between 12 and 14 hours a day. Puppies and older dogs may sleep even more.

Dogs tend to rest whenever nothing interesting is happening, rather than staying awake out of habit like people do.

Why dogs sleep so much

Common everyday reasons include:

Energy conservation: Dogs rest to store energy for walks, play, and stimulation.

Boredom: A quiet home with little activity often leads to more sleep.

Comfort: Dogs sleep more when they feel secure and content.

Age: Puppies and senior dogs naturally need more rest.

When sleeping more might be worth noticing

Extra sleep may be worth paying attention to if it comes with:

• A sudden change from normal behaviour
• Lack of interest in walks or food
• Withdrawal or low responsiveness

Otherwise, a dog that sleeps a lot but is alert when awake is usually behaving normally.

Reassuring takeaway

For most dogs, sleeping for long periods is a normal and healthy part of daily life.

If your dog wakes easily, enjoys normal activities, and seems comfortable, their sleep habits are unlikely to be a problem.

Yes, in many cases, it is normal for dogs to lick their paws occasionally. Paw licking is a common behaviour and often harmless, especially if it happens briefly or at specific times of day.

That said, frequent or intense licking can sometimes be a sign that something is irritating your dog, so it’s worth understanding what’s normal and what isn’t.

When paw licking is normal

Dogs naturally use licking as a way to clean themselves and self-soothe. Occasional paw licking is usually nothing to worry about.

It’s commonly seen:

• After walks, especially on wet or muddy ground
• In the evening when dogs are settling down
• During grooming or after meals
• When a dog is relaxed or slightly bored

If your dog licks briefly and then stops, and their paws look healthy, this behaviour is generally considered normal.

Why dogs lick their paws

There are several everyday reasons a dog might focus on their paws:

Cleaning: Dogs often lick dirt, salt, or small debris from their paws after being outside.

Comfort: Licking can have a calming effect and may help a dog relax.

Habit: Some dogs develop mild routines, especially during quiet moments.

Minor irritation: Grass, dust, or dry skin can sometimes cause mild itchiness.

When paw licking might need attention

Paw licking may be worth paying closer attention to if you notice:

• Constant or obsessive licking
• Redness, swelling, or sores on the paws
• Hair loss around the feet
• Limping or sensitivity when walking

In these cases, licking can be a response to ongoing irritation rather than a normal habit.

Is paw licking at night normal?

Many owners notice paw licking more in the evening. This is often because the house is quiet and there are fewer distractions.

If your dog only licks at night and their paws look healthy, this is usually normal behaviour and not a cause for concern.

Reassuring takeaway

Occasional paw licking is a normal part of dog behaviour and, on its own, rarely means anything serious.

If the licking becomes constant, causes visible changes to the paws, or seems to distress your dog, it may be worth looking into further. Otherwise, brief and infrequent paw licking is usually just one of the many harmless ways dogs look after themselves.