Our Rottweiler pup sleeps a LOT!

by Dan
(Ontario, Canada)

We just got a 6 month old Rottweiler from a shelter and he seems to sleep a lot. Like most of the day and through the night too.

Is this normal for Rotties or could he be sick? Should we be worried?




Hi Dan
Rottweilers are definitely not high-energy dogs when mature, but Rottie puppies are usually fairly active and energetic - as are most breeds.

However, I think that your new Rottweilers' behavior right now is more likely due to the stress of the recent changes in his life rather than his personality. Regardless of how old they are, pups tend to go through an adjustment period during the first week or so in a new home. This is a huge change for them, and they often react to that stress by sleeping a lot, I personally think it's just their way of 'shutting it all out', until they feel more secure and at home in their new environment.

If your pup has had all of his puppy vaccinations (which I'm sure he has as you got him from a shelter), and he's eating and drinking okay (loss of appetite is also fairly common in the first few days though), doesn't have diarrhea or vomiting, and seems to be happy and healthy during the short periods that he is active, then I doubt that you have anything to worry about. Over the next few days he will likely start to 'come out of his shell' and his real personality will shine through.

However, it's always a good idea to have a new pup checked out by your own vet to rule out any underlying health issues, so a trip there would be a good idea.

Although your pup isn't a 'baby', he is still young, and you might find my Taking Care Of A Puppy page helpful in these early days. It has tons of tips and advice to help you keep your pup happy and healthy.

Hope this helps. I'm so glad your boy has found a new loving home, and I wish you all the best with him.