Last Updated on April 26, 2023 by Pets Feed
Just like babies, puppies can be a handful when you first bring them home! From getting used to a new environment to learning the ins and outs of potty training, sometimes a puppy can have a hard time adjusting in the first few days of his new home. Here at Pets Feed, our pet experts want your new puppy to feel comfortable during his transition into your family; so we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help your four-legged friend sleep soundly all night from day one.
Puppy Sleeping & Circadian Rhythm
Like us humans, dogs are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and inactive during the night. Even if dogs take a nap during the day, they are still able to sleep soundly during the last hours of the night and the early hours of the morning. Although your newly adopted pup will be accustomed to a standard 24-hour circadian rhythm, he still won’t understand how to adjust to his bladder or new sights and smells.
During your puppy’s first night at home, you can expect one of two things:
- Your puppy will be completely exhausted from the excitement of movement, falling asleep and staying asleep all night.
- Your puppy will have a hard time settling into the house and crying all night, even if the rest of the day went smoothly.
Puppy Crate Training & Sleep
The younger your pup, especially if he is still crate training, the less likely he or she will be able to sleep soundly during the first few nights. Dogs won’t lighten up where they sleep, so they may cry in the middle of the night if they have to go outside. If you hear any confusion from their crate, be sure to take your puppy out for a short walk, let them go to the potty, and then put them back in their crate. After three to four months, your puppy should sleep more soundly, as he will be able to better control his bladder.
Tips and tricks to help your puppy sleep – Puppy sleep aids
Give your puppy plenty of opportunities to exercise
As the classic saying goes, “A tired dog is a good dog!” Make sure you stimulate your puppy’s cognitive abilities with age-appropriate activities and toys. The more time you spend playing during the day, the more likely your pup will go to sleep when the time comes. As your puppy continues to grow, they will need more and more exercise every day. Providing them with a yard with ample space to run around is a great resource for burning your dog’s energy.
Keep calm before bedtime
At night, avoid playing intense tug-of-war or fetch games, as you don’t want your pup wrapped up before he goes out. Like humans, dogs love routines, so it’s important to relax at least 30 minutes before planning for bed.
Make sure your puppy is cleared up before going to bed
As simple as this idea is, it’s important to let your dog get corny one last time before hitting the hay. A dog that has relieved itself will sleep much more soundly during the night, as there will be no unnecessary pressure on the bladder.
Give your puppy a comfortable and safe space to rest
If your dog sleeps in a crate, make sure it is as comfortable as possible. Soft, breathable blankets are perfect for a dog to fall asleep to. Plus, you can place some of their favorite toys right next to them at night, helping them feel safe. If your newly adopted puppy is extremely young, ask if you can have a blanket or any other item that has been used by his mother. A blanket or toy with the scent of littermates or their mother will ensure they feel right at home every night.
Keep your dog’s crate close to you at night
An easy way to make sure your puppy sleeps through the night is to place his crate or bed right next to yours. Dogs are pack animals and will feel safe if they are next to their new owners every night. If you are still crate training, you will easily know if your pup needs to take a trip out at night. Once they get a little older and a little better at mundane training, you can allow them to have more freedom to sleep wherever they want in the house.
