Getting a new puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience. But, as you’ve probably found out, it can also be a challenging one – especially when it comes to getting your puppy to sleep through the night. In this guide, I’ll share some practical advice and strategies that should help you and your puppy get a good night’s sleep.
1. Set a Routine
Just like human babies, puppies thrive on routine.
- Feed your puppy a few hours before bedtime. This allows time for digestion and a potty break before bed.
- Have some playtime in the evening. This helps tire your puppy out.
- Set a consistent bedtime. Make sure it’s a time you can stick to, even on weekends.
- Have a quiet time before bed. This helps your puppy wind down.
2. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment
Your puppy will sleep better if they are comfortable and feel safe.
- Use a crate. Many dogs feel secure in a crate. Include a soft blanket and a toy.
- Keep the crate near you. Puppies can be anxious if they feel alone.
- Make the room dark. This signals to your puppy that it’s bedtime.
3. Potty Training and Night Time
Potty training is a crucial part of getting your puppy to sleep through the night.
- Take your puppy out last thing at night. This reduces the chance of accidents during the night.
- Limit water before bed. This helps prevent your puppy from needing to pee during the night.
4. Use Calming Techniques
There are many techniques you can use to soothe your puppy and help them sleep.
- Use white noise. A fan, an air purifier, or a white noise machine can help soothe your puppy.
- Try a heartbeat toy. These toys mimic the heartbeat of a littermate and can comfort your puppy.
- Use lavender oil. Lavender is known for its calming properties.
5. Training Your Puppy to Self-Soothe
Teaching your puppy to self-soothe is essential for them to sleep through the night.
- Ignore whining. As hard as it can be, try not to respond to your puppy’s whining.
- Reward quiet behavior. If your puppy settles down, give them praise or a treat.
6. Dealing with Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety can cause your puppy to wake up during the night.
- Start with short separations. Gradually increase the time your puppy spends alone.
- Use a comforting item. A toy or blanket that smells like you can comfort your puppy.
7. Health Issues that Can Affect Sleep
Some health issues can cause your puppy to wake up during the night.
- Teething. If your puppy is teething, they may have trouble sleeping.
- Parasites. Worms can cause discomfort and interrupt sleep.
- Urinary tract infections. These can cause your puppy to need to pee frequently.
| Health Issue | Symptoms | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Teething | Chewing, drooling, loss of appetite | Chew toys, cold treats |
| Parasites | Diarrhea, weight loss, itching | Vet visit |
| UTI | Frequent urination, crying during urination, accidents | Vet visit |
8. When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried everything and your puppy is still not sleeping through the night, it may be time to seek help from a professional dog trainer or your vet.
FAQs
Q: How long can puppies sleep at night?
A: Puppies can sleep for about 5-6 hours at night without needing to go to the bathroom.
Q: What if my puppy cries at night?
A: It’s normal for puppies to cry at night, especially when they’re new to your home. Try to comfort them without rewarding the crying behavior.
Q: Can I let my puppy sleep with me?
A: It’s not recommended to let your puppy sleep with you as it can cause separation anxiety issues in the future.
Q: How can I make my puppy’s crate more comfortable?
A: You can make your puppy’s crate more comfortable by adding soft bedding and safe toys.
Q: When should I take my puppy to the vet for sleep issues?
A: If your puppy consistently can’t sleep through the night, it may be a sign of a health issue and you should consult with your vet.
