Animals in the United States
James Middleton On Why He Believes 'We Have A Lot To Learn From Dogs' (Exclusive)
The younger brother of Kate Middleton talks to PEOPLE ahead of the release of his memoir, "Meet Ella," out Sept. 24
Chris Terry
James Middleton and some of his dogs in Berkshire, England in 2024James Middleton knows how a dog can bring happiness and support to an owner.
His new searingly honest memoir is a love letter to his late cocker spaniel Ella, who died last year, and also underlines how she was an emotional crutch for him in his darkest hours.
Middleton, 37, the younger brother of Princess Kate, has spoken out on how he has suffered from depression and how, when he saw Ella on one harrowing night in 2017, it helped turn him away from his suicidal thoughts.
He backs dogs as a therapy tool, telling PEOPLE that "An ambition [of mine] is to get dogs to be on a prescription from doctors, because I think there is an undeniable amount of things that dogs can do for us."
Middleton says they can get "us up in the morning and outside. It's incredible what it can do for us if you don't mentally want to do it, but you're doing it for something else."
Chris Terry
James Middleton with (from left) cocker spaniels Inka, Luna, golden retriever Mabel, brown cocker spaniel Nala and IslaMeet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life is out in the U.S. On Sept. 24. And Middleton told PEOPLE how he and his family now talk more openly about their mental health.
"We have a lot to learn from dogs, which is that they live every day as today. They're not thinking about yesterday. They're not annoyed about yesterday or worrying about the future. They're living in the moment. If we all focus on that a little bit more then I think we will be happier."
Chris Terry
James Middleton (holding Inka) and some of his other dogsOn a late summer afternoon at Bucklebury, it is clear Middleton knows his dogs well and has a wonderful talent and flair with them.
Related: James Middleton Reveals Accidental Way Kate Middleton and Prince William Met His Future Wife
Welcoming a visitor to a park close to where James and his sisters Kate, 42, and Pippa Matthews, 41, grew up in the English countryside of Bucklebury, Berkshire, these canine co-stars of his instagram bound out when he opens the back of his Land Rover Defender. Two golden retrievers, Mabel and Isla, and four working cocker spaniels, Inka, Luna, Zulu and Nala, leap and scoot excitedly around the visitor, their coats healthily glistening in the summer drizzle.
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They are boisterous but never irritating or aggressive. Moments after entering an office, Middleton pours them some fresh water and ushers them to settle down, which they obediently do in a haphazard bundle.
These are special dogs. All are descendants of his first two dogs, his family pet Tilly and, of course, Ella (who was mom to Kate and Prince William's first dog Lupo). In the book, Middleton recounts how not only did Ella inadvertently introduce him to Alizee Thevenet, who he would go on to marry after Ella wandered over to her in a bar in Chelsea, London, but he believes Ella sensed that she was pregnant with their son, Inigo. He turns one in October.
David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty
Alizee Middleton and James Middleton in November 2021"Dogs have this fantastic sort of intuition," entrepreneur Middleton, who runs ethical dog food company James & Ella, tells PEOPLE. "They know things before we do. I'm sort of absolutely certain that she knew that my wife was pregnant. And that in times of timing, now is the time to slip off, so to speak."
Read PEOPLE's exclusive excerpt of Middleton's Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.
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Read the original article on People.
Why James Middleton Wants Dogs To Be Prescribed By Doctors: 'They Live Every Day As Today' (Exclusive)
James Middleton understands the profound joy and support a dog can offer its owner.
In his searingly honest new memoir, Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life, Middleton pays tribute to his late cocker spaniel Ella, who died last year. The book not only celebrates their deep bond but also highlights how Ella became his emotional lifeline during his darkest moments.
Middleton, 37, the younger brother of Kate Middleton, has been open about his struggle with depression. He recalls how seeing Ella one traumatic night in 2017 helped steer him away from suicidal thoughts.
A strong advocate for dogs as a form of therapy, Middleton tells PEOPLE, "An ambition [of mine] is to get dogs to be on a prescription from doctors because I think there is an undeniable amount of things that dogs can do for us."
"[They] get us up in the morning and outside. It's incredible what it can do for us if you don't mentally want to do it, but you're doing it for something else," he continues."
James Middleton with (from left) cocker spaniels Inka, Luna, golden retriever Mabel, brown cocker spaniel Nala and Isla.Chris Terry
Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life is out in the U.S. On Sept. 24. Middleton shared with PEOPLE that, since his journey, he and his family have become more open about discussing their mental health.
"We have a lot to learn from dogs, which is that they live every day as today. They're not thinking about yesterday," he says. "They're not annoyed about yesterday or worrying about the future. They're living in the moment. If we all focus on that a little bit more then I think we will be happier."
James Middleton (holding Inka) and some of his other dogs.Chris Terry
On a late summer afternoon in Bucklebury, Middleton's deep connection with his dogs is evident, showcasing his remarkable talent and natural rapport with them.
Welcoming this visitor to a park near where James and his sisters, Kate, 42, and Pippa Matthews, 41, grew up in the English countryside of Bucklebury, Berkshire, the frequent four-legged stars of his Instagram eagerly bound out as he opens the back of his Land Rover Defender. Two golden retrievers, Mabel and Isla, along with four working cocker spaniels, Inka, Luna, Zulu, and Nala, leap and dash excitedly around their guest, their glossy coats shimmering in the light summer drizzle.
Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!
Though lively, they are never disruptive or aggressive. Shortly after stepping into the office, Middleton pours them fresh water and calmly directs them to settle down, which they do obediently, curling up in a relaxed, haphazard bundle.
These are special dogs. All are descendants of his first two dogs, his family pet Tilly and, of course, Ella (who was mom to Kate and Prince William's first dog Lupo). In the book, Middleton shares how Ella not only inadvertently introduced him to his future wife, Alizee Thevenet—after wandering over to her in a Chelsea bar—but also how he believes Ella sensed Alizee's pregnancy before they knew. Their son, Inigo, who turns one in October.
Alizee Middleton and James Middleton in November 2021.David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty
"Dogs have this fantastic sort of intuition," the entrepreneur who runs the ethical dog food company James & Ella, tells PEOPLE. "They know things before we do. I'm sort of absolutely certain that she knew that my wife was pregnant. And that in times of timing, now is the time to slip off, so to speak."
Read PEOPLE's exclusive excerpt of Middleton's Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.
10 Most Sleepy Dog Breeds For Calm And Quiet Homes
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Dogs find joy in life's basics—mealtime, playtime, and plenty of sleep! Although you might think your dog would be on the move all day, many pups are true nap enthusiasts. On average, dogs sleep about 12 to 14 hours a day—that's nearly half their day spent dreaming! Unlike us, who often push through our busy schedules, dogs are great at listening to their bodies, resting whenever they need to recharge.
Puppies and senior dogs tend to snooze more than adults, and even energetic working dogs know when it's time to wind down. Some breeds, however, are true experts in relaxation and love nothing more than lounging.
Factors like activity level, age, and health all play a role in how much a dog sleeps. Breed, size, and even their living environment can also influence their love for sleep.
If you're searching for a chilled-out companion who's happy to cuddle and relax, we've got the perfect list of the top 10 sleepy dog breeds that are masters at snoozing.
Most Sleepy Dog Breeds 1. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels, originally bred as hunting dogs, are smart, friendly, and make wonderful companions for any home, even for first-time owners. Though they are relatively active for a non-sporting breed, they don't require as much exercise as their sporting counterparts, which means they tend to sleep more than other breeds of similar size.
With most Cocker Spaniels clocking in around 13 to 14 hours of sleep each day, they are one of the sleepiest and most relaxed dog breeds when not playing. PetPlan notes that while they still need regular exercise to stay happy and avoid mischief, like chewing or scratching, they enjoy walks, playing fetch, and running in a safe space to burn off energy.
After they've had their outdoor fun, Cocker Spaniels love to unwind. They are content to curl up on the couch or a cozy cushion for a long nap, making them the perfect low-key companion when it's time to relax.
2. Great PyreneesThe Great Pyrenees is a large, fluffy dog that makes an ideal cuddle buddy, thanks to its thick, soft coat. Originally bred to guard livestock, this breed has a calm, protective nature, making them excellent watchdogs. Though they're quick to alert you when strangers are near, they aren't naturally aggressive. After all that hard work keeping watch, it's no surprise these gentle giants love to catch up on their sleep!
Historically used to protect sheep in mountainous areas, the Great Pyrenees is reserved and observant by nature. While they do enjoy daily walks and the occasional hike, they're not overly athletic. With enough exercise, they're content to be peaceful indoor companions. After some activity, they can easily spend hours napping in the coziest spot they can find.
Despite their large size, the Great Pyrenees doesn't need a huge amount of space to be happy. According to Orvis, they enjoy lounging on big dog beds or comfy furniture and are generally calm indoors. However, they may not be the best choice for apartment living due to their tendency to bark at new sights, sounds, or smells—alerting you to any potential threats in their environment.
3. Shih TzuShih Tzus are well-known for their love of sleep, typically snoozing anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day. Factors like age, health, and activity level can affect how much a Shih Tzu sleeps, but even as adults, they tend to rest for a good portion of the day. Puppies and senior Shih Tzus often sleep even longer, sometimes up to 20 hours per day!
Despite being a small dog breed, Shih Tzus have big personalities and are always ready for cuddles or playtime. Originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty, they're famous for their luxurious coats and lively temperament. Shih Tzus make excellent pets for apartment living and are wonderful with children, which is why they're such a popular choice for families. While they do require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coats, their loving nature makes it all worthwhile.
Regular exercise and mental stimulation can help prevent behavioral issues that might arise from being under-stimulated. These cuddly dogs are the perfect mix of affection and playfulness, balancing their long naps with bursts of energy.
4. MastiffMastiffs are massive dogs known for being true couch potatoes. Despite their history of pulling carts, guarding properties, and even being bred to fight large animals like bears and bulls, today's Mastiffs prefer lounging and sleeping. In fact, they are some of the heaviest sleepers among domesticated dogs, often snoozing for 12 to 14 hours a day.
These gentle giants are patient, lovable, and form deep bonds with their families. While they are naturally protective and cautious around strangers, early training and socialization help ensure they grow into well-behaved pets. Though Mastiffs make wonderful companions, their size and strength require a committed owner who understands their needs.
When it comes to exercise, Mastiff puppies should avoid overexertion, as recommended by the American Kennel Club—only short walks of about half a block are advised. Adult Mastiffs also don't need much exercise; just one to two miles of walking per day is enough to keep them happy and healthy.
5. Bernese Mountain DogBernese Mountain Dogs, originally from the Swiss Alps, are majestic and hardworking dogs. Historically, they herded livestock and pulled carts loaded with cheese to market, all while serving as reliable watchdogs. Though they can work tirelessly, once they return home or to the ranch, these gentle giants love to sleep for hours.
Known for their calm and friendly demeanor, Bernese Mountain Dogs are playful and affectionate with their families. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, and they enjoy being a part of family activities.
Though they need about 20-30 minutes of exercise daily and benefit from space to roam, such as a fenced yard, Bernese Mountain Dogs are happiest when they're indoors with their loved ones. Thanks to their thick coats, they prefer cooler weather for outdoor activities, making them perfectly suited for families who live in colder climates.
6. Great DaneGreat Danes, often called the "Apollo of dogs," are enormous yet friendly companions. Originating from Germany, they were once used by nobles for protection and hunting. Despite their impressive size, Great Danes aren't too keen on a lot of exercise—they would much rather take a nap.
As puppies, they can sleep up to 18-20 hours a day! If you're looking for a laid-back dog who's more into lounging on the couch than going on adventures, a Great Dane might be the perfect match. These gentle giants are wonderful with kids and enjoy playing, though they're not overly energetic.
According to WebMD, they also make excellent watchdogs. Great Danes typically get along well with other animals, especially if they've been raised together. However, like any breed, some may have issues with unfamiliar dogs and might show aggression. Given their size, they need plenty of space to move around, especially when they're young and more active.
7. Saint BernardThe Saint Bernard, a massive and friendly breed from the Swiss Alps, is well known for its love of napping. These gentle giants were once famous for rescuing people lost in the snow, but today they are more likely to be found lounging around the house. They are especially kind and gentle with children, making them great family pets.
Saint Bernards are not particularly active dogs, preferring relaxation over long walks. They typically sleep for 14 to 16 hours each day and need a little encouragement to get out for their daily exercise. Despite their large size, they are quite laid-back and love to spend time with their families, often sitting on your feet or snuggling up on the couch or bed.
Wikipedia points out that although they're not aggressive, their sheer size is enough to intimidate strangers. They have a deep bark that alerts you when someone unfamiliar is around, making them excellent watchdogs without any unnecessary aggression.
8. English BulldogThe mighty but sleepy Bulldog is next on our list, and there's no surprise here—these dogs are famous for their love of naps. However, be prepared for some snoring! Despite their laid-back nature, Bulldogs can be quite stubborn and determined when they set their minds to something. So, while they may spend most of their time snoozing, they certainly don't lack personality or charm.
Bulldogs are a dog breed that happily spends more time asleep than awake. Known for their relaxed and low-energy demeanor, they're content to lounge around the house for much of the day. Their easygoing nature and love for comfort make them ideal companions for those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle. Plus, their affectionate and gentle temperament makes them wonderful pets for families with children.
It's completely normal for Bulldogs to sleep 12–14 hours per day, so if your Bulldog is napping most of the day away, don't worry—it's just their typical behavior. However, when they are awake, make sure they get enough exercise to stay happy and healthy!
9. GreyhoundGreyhounds have long been admired for their elegance and grace, often recognized as the fastest dogs on Earth due to their incredible sprinting ability. Despite their speed, these dogs are surprisingly laid-back and love being close to their humans. While Greyhounds enjoy the occasional quick run, they're most famous for their love of long, leisurely naps.
After a short walk, they're perfectly happy to curl up on the couch and relax. Most Greyhounds sleep between 12 to 14 hours a day, but some can even nap for up to 18 hours, with frequent snoozes sprinkled throughout the day. They may seem lazy, but they're really just conserving energy for their playtime bursts.
Known for their gentle nature, Greyhounds make excellent family pets. However, their sensitive personality means they may find a very busy household overwhelming. While training them can be a bit tricky due to their independent nature, Greyhounds respond well to reward-based training, especially if it involves their favorite treats!
10. Chow ChowChow Chows are one of the oldest dog breeds and have done a variety of jobs throughout history, from guarding to pulling carts. According to PetMD, these fluffy giants absolutely love to sleep and can easily snooze for up to 20 hours a day if given the chance! They don't need a ton of exercise—just a couple of short walks each day is enough—but because they're so relaxed, it's important to keep an eye on their weight to ensure they stay healthy.
Though intelligent, Chow Chows are known for being stubborn, which can make them a bit challenging for first-time dog owners. While they are protective of their family, they're not particularly cuddly and enjoy having their own space.
Training them can be tricky, as they get bored quickly, so keeping sessions short and engaging is the way to go. Chow Chows aren't naturally social, but with early exposure to new people and animals, they can learn to be more relaxed and accepting of strangers.
ConclusionMany dog breeds sleep for extended periods, with adult dogs often needing more rest than younger pups. While small dog breeds and smaller dogs tend to nap frequently, big dogs like the strongest dog breeds are also known for their sleepy nature. The amount of dog sleep required varies based on factors such as age, breed, and activity level.
Whether it's a senior dog needing extra rest or an energetic pup winding down after playtime, their sleeping habits are an essential part of their well-being. According to the American Kennel Club, dogs of the same breed may have different sleep needs, but all dogs enjoy their precious beauty sleep.
Regardless of size, from smaller dogs to big dogs, these canine companions make for a loving and loyal companion. Their affectionate nature shines through, whether they're awake or drifting off to dreamland. Knowing how much sleep your furry friend needs ensures they stay healthy and content. Whether they fall asleep quickly after a walk or enjoy snoozing with other dogs, understanding your dog's sleeping habits helps maintain a happy home for both you and your sleeping dog.
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