How to Help Your Puppy Sleep Through the Night
Bringing home a new puppy is always a joyful moment; however, those first few nights tend to be sleepless for all. With a little patience, these simple tips will help your puppy settle in and start sleeping through the night.
4 Tips to Help Your Puppy Sleep Through the Night
1. Tire Your Puppy Out
Make sure to exhaust your puppy during the day. Engage them with different activities, such as chase toys to exercise and puzzle toys filled with treats to stimulate their minds. A tired puppy is more likely to sleep soundly through the night.
2. Develop a Calming Routine
Create a calming pre-bedtime routine to slow down your puppy. Use the last hour leading up to bedtime to create calmness, such as quiet cuddling or offering him a soft chew toy.
Ensure he has had a chance to eliminate before bed. If crate-trained, remember they might need a potty break in the middle of the night. If the puppy does not have access to the outdoors, use puppy pads to avoid accidents.
3. Keep Your Puppy Close
Try not to give in to the temptation that sees your puppy sleeping in your bed; it's difficult to stop once they start. Place their bed or mattress near yours, and the feeling of being safe will surround them. In this regard, crate training is excellent for providing a safe, den-like area for sleeping.
In case your puppy shows signs of separation anxiety, such as whining or trying to leave his bed, lead him back gently and use commands like "stay." Early training helps establish good bedtime habits.
4. Offer Familiar Comforts
Your puppy will miss their mom and littermates, so bring something that smells familiar to help them feel this big change. Ask the breeder or shelter for a towel or toy with their family's scent and add an item with your scent to help them feel secure in their new home.
Final Thoughts
With consistency, patience, and the right setup, your puppy will quickly adapt to a healthy nighttime routine. Set boundaries, provide comfort, and help them feel secure, and soon you’ll both enjoy restful nights.