Did you know that puppies sleep up to 18-20 hours a day? It’s true! But here’s the catch: they don’t always do it when you want them to. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your adorable little furball, wondering why they’re bouncing off the walls instead of snoozing peacefully at night, you’re not alone. Getting a puppy to settle down for bedtime can feel like trying to convince a toddler to eat broccoli—it’s tricky but definitely possible with some patience and smart strategies.
In this article, we’ll dive into how you can help your puppy wind down and get those much-needed Zs at night. From creating the perfect sleeping environment to understanding their quirky habits, let’s turn those restless nights into peaceful ones—for both of you!
Here are six steps to help your puppy sleep through the night:
Step 1: Understand Why Puppies Struggle to Sleep
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand why puppies might have trouble sleeping through the night. Unlike adult dogs, puppies are still growing and learning about the world around them. Their tiny bodies need tons of rest, but their curious minds often keep them awake longer than they should be.
Puppies also miss their littermates and mom during the first few weeks in a new home. This separation anxiety can make nighttime feel lonely and scary. Add in an overactive bladder (because, well, they’re babies!) and endless bursts of energy, and you’ve got a recipe for late-night chaos.
The good news is that most puppies will naturally adjust to a routine as they grow older. Until then, it’s up to you to guide them toward better sleep habits.
Step 2: Set Up a Cozy Sleeping Spot
Imagine being asked to sleep on a cold, hard floor—wouldn’t you toss and turn all night? The same goes for your puppy. A comfy bed is key to helping them relax and drift off.
Choose a soft, supportive dog bed that’s just the right size for your pup. Make sure it’s placed in a quiet corner where they won’t be disturbed by noise or foot traffic. Some puppies prefer enclosed spaces because they mimic the coziness of a den. If yours seems anxious, consider using a crate lined with blankets to give them a secure feeling.
Pro Tip: Add something that smells like you—a worn T-shirt or blanket—to comfort them. Familiar scents can work wonders for calming nerves.
Step 3: Stick to a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on routines, and puppies are no exception. Establishing a predictable schedule helps them feel safe and reduces stress. Here’s what a typical evening routine could look like:
- Dinner Time: Feed your puppy dinner at least two hours before bedtime. This gives their food time to digest and minimizes the chances of accidents overnight.
- Potty Break: Take your puppy outside for one last bathroom trip right before bed. Even if they seem tired, insist on this step—it’ll save you from midnight wake-up calls.
- Wind-Down Playtime: Spend 15-20 minutes engaging in calm activities like gentle petting or snuggling. Avoid high-energy games close to bedtime; these can leave your puppy too wired to relax.
- Quiet Time: Dim the lights and create a peaceful atmosphere. Speak softly and avoid loud noises so your puppy knows it’s time to settle down.
By sticking to this routine every night, your puppy will start associating certain cues with bedtime, making it easier for them to fall asleep.
Step 4: Tire Them Out During the Day
A tired puppy is a sleepy puppy. Make sure your furry friend gets plenty of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. Take them for walks, play fetch, or introduce interactive toys that challenge their brain. Puzzle feeders are great for keeping them entertained while satisfying their natural instincts.
However, avoid overdoing it. Too much exercise can actually backfire and leave your puppy more restless. Aim for short bursts of activity spread throughout the day rather than one long session.
Step 5: Address Separation Anxiety
If your puppy whines or cries at night, it’s likely due to separation anxiety. They’re used to having constant companionship from their littermates and may feel abandoned when left alone.
To ease their fears, try these tips:
- Gradual Alone Time: Start by leaving the room for short periods during the day. Gradually increase the duration so they learn that being alone isn’t scary.
- White Noise or Music: Soft background sounds can drown out unfamiliar noises and provide comfort. There are even playlists designed specifically for calming dogs!
- Reward Calm Behavior: Praise your puppy when they stay quiet and relaxed. Positive reinforcement encourages good behavior.
Remember, patience is key. With time, your puppy will realize that nighttime doesn’t mean goodbye—it means “see you in the morning!”
Step 6: Be Prepared for Nighttime Wake-Ups
Let’s face it: accidents happen. Puppies have small bladders and can’t hold it for very long. Expect to wake up once or twice during the night to take them outside. Keep these trips low-key—no playing or excitement allowed. Simply let them do their business, then head straight back to bed.
As your puppy grows, their ability to hold it overnight will improve. By around four months old, most puppies can sleep six to eight hours without needing a potty break.
Bonus Tips for Success
- Limit Water Intake Before Bed: About an hour before bedtime, reduce access to water to minimize the risk of accidents. Just be sure they’ve had enough to drink earlier in the evening.
- Avoid Late-Night Treats: Snacks close to bedtime can disrupt digestion and lead to unwanted wake-ups.
- Stay Calm and Patient: It’s tempting to respond to every whimper or bark, but doing so can reinforce bad habits. Wait a few minutes before checking on your puppy to see if they settle down on their own.
FAQs
When Do Puppies Sleep Through the Night?
Most puppies start sleeping through the night (without needing a bathroom break) around 3-6 months old , depending on their size and breed. Smaller breeds tend to have smaller bladders, so they might take a bit longer to make it through the night compared to larger breeds. By four months, many puppies can comfortably sleep for 6-8 hours without needing to go outside. Until then, expect to wake up once or twice to let them out.
Should I Ignore My Puppy Crying at Night?
It depends on the situation. If your puppy is crying because they’re lonely or anxious, it’s okay to wait a few minutes before checking on them. Sometimes, giving them a moment to self-soothe helps them learn that nighttime is for sleeping. However, if the crying continues or seems urgent, it could mean they need to use the bathroom or are feeling scared. In those cases, it’s best to check on them—but keep interactions calm and low-key. Avoid playing or cuddling too much, as this can encourage them to associate crying with attention.
What Sounds Put Puppies to Sleep?
Puppies find certain soothing sounds incredibly calming. Here are some tried-and-true options:
- White Noise: The steady hum of a fan, air purifier, or white noise machine can block out sudden noises that might startle your pup.
- Classical Music: Slow, soft melodies by composers like Mozart or Bach are known to relax dogs.
- Nature Sounds: Gentle rain, ocean waves, or rustling leaves can mimic the comforting environment of a den.
- Heartbeat Sounds: Playing recordings of a heartbeat can remind your puppy of being close to their mom and littermates.
- Lullabies for Dogs: Believe it or not, there are playlists specifically designed to help dogs fall asleep. Check streaming services for “dog lullabies” or “calming music for pets.”