Buyer protection
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Anyone who observes donkeys will often see them standing with half-closed eyes and a drooping lower lip. They are dozing. However, donkeys can only sleep soundly when lying down.
Dozing while standing
Like horses, donkeys have what is known as a standing apparatus: tendons and ligaments support the joints so that the animals can relax while standing without expending much muscle strength. This allows them to remain ready to move quickly even when resting.
Deep sleep while lying down
Donkeys lie down to sleep soundly – on their chest or flat on their side. These phases are short and spread over day and night. In total, donkeys sleep for only a few hours a day.
Safety in numbers
Donkeys lie down more comfortably in a group because a companion stays awake. This is also why company is so important – find out more in the post Why donkeys need company.
The right resting place
- dry and bedded
- sheltered from the wind
- large enough for all the animals in the group
- quietly situated
A dry shelter is particularly important in winter. Find out more in the post Donkeys in winter.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for a donkey to lie flat on its side?
Yes, this is normal for a short time. If a donkey lies down for an unusually long time, has difficulty getting up, or shows other unusual signs, a veterinarian should take a look.
Do donkeys sleep at night?
They rest more often at night, but do not sleep continuously; instead, they sleep in several short phases.
