
Last Updated: October 2026
Key Takeaways
My dog won’t sleep after surgery: the short answer
- Restlessness after surgery is common. Anaesthetic and sedation can leave dogs wobbly or sleepy for 12 to 24 hours, according to VetVoice (Australian Veterinary Association), and pain, a cone or a strange routine can stop them settling.
- Set up a warm, quiet, confined space with a comfortable bed, keep visitors and other pets away, and give any prescribed pain relief exactly as directed.
- Keep your dog quiet and confined for 10 to 14 days to protect the wound, stop licking with a cone or collar, and check the wound daily for redness, swelling or discharge.
- Call your vet if your dog is still very restless, panting, crying or not eating after the first day, or if the wound changes. Never give human pain medicine.
Dog behavior after surgery – Dog after surgery what to expect, planning and time
Still wondering why my dog won’t sleep after surgery? Let’s face it; any of us feel concerned when any of our loved ones have had surgery.
They may have been in an accident; it could be a health issue that has hit suddenly; or it could be a health issue that has been around for a while.
There is the diagnosis, the surgery and then the recuperation phase and the longer-term prognosis.
I have found some really good results with Okoa Pet’s CBD infused dog treats for relaxation and their CBD mobility dog treats work really well too.
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