How to Help Your Puppy Sleep at Night

January 8, 2021

Does your new puppy keep you up at night? Are you worried your puppy isn’t getting enough sleep? Don’t worry! Your new puppy’s sleep schedule may not be in sync with yours yet. They may still be trying to get used to their new home, so it might take a few nights before they start to doze off at the right hours.

However, it’s a good idea to start creating a good sleep schedule that gets your puppy to sleep and wake up at the right time. Here are a few tips you can use to help your puppy sleep at night.

1. Use crates and kennels.

Crates and kennels act as your puppy’s resting spot. Add a cover over the crate so that it acts like a den-like spot for your pup. Puppies, like all canines, are den animals so they’ll appreciate having a cozy place to sleep! A blanket or cover can also make their crate darker. Like humans, puppies are affected by the amount of melatonin they are exposed to before bed. If there’s too much light, there’s a chance they won’t feel sleepy. Make their crate or kennel a safe, dark, and cozy place and you’ll see how much your puppy will enjoy sleep!

2. Bring out comfy beds.

Dogs like being comfy. And puppies are no exception! Use pillows and blankets to coax your puppy into sleeping and relaxing. Line these items up on the sides of the crate, and encourage your puppy to sniff and go inside their crate. Of course, don’t use pillows if your pup likes to chew or shred pillows. Instead, use a bed or mat that’s chew-proof and water-proof. We also recommend beds that are durable and fit your puppy’s crate. Make sure that there’s enough air circulation so that your pup doesn’t get too hot!

3. Exercise your puppy.

Make sure your puppy receives enough exercise throughout the day. Without exercise, your puppy will have too much energy, so at night, they’ll be wide awake. The best exercise is 20-30 minutes of playtime outside. Try throwing a toy so they can chase it. You can also take them out for a quick walk around the neighborhood or train them in small sessions. Mental exercise also works! In fact, you may find your puppy gets extra sleepy after they play a puzzle game or a scavenger hunt. 

4. Let your puppy have potty breaks.

Does your puppy wake you up for potty breaks? This usually means they need to go potty a little earlier. Keep watch of what your furry bestie eats throughout the day. Make sure they don’t eat too early or too late. Before bed, take your puppy out for a potty break for the last time. Keep in mind that your puppy may not be able to hold their bladder for very long. They may wake you up for a potty break at night to alleviate themselves. As your puppy matures, they should be able to control their urges. 

5. Establish a bedtime routine.

Most people have a sleep routine that they go through right before bed. Puppies should have the same type of routine before sleep! For instance, you can give your furry friend a snack, engage in play for a few minutes, or take them out for their last bathroom break. Repeat this routine each day every week. When it’s time for sleep, grab your puppy’s favorite toy or treat and lure them into their crate.

Most puppies learn to sleep through the night by the age of 4 or 5 months. If your puppy still doesn’t get used to their schedule, be sure to ask your vet for professional help. Just be consistent and patient at all times. Your puppy will eventually get the hang of things!