Puppy Sleeping Tips: Easy Ways to Help Your Pup Rest Well
Getting a new puppy means learning a bunch of new habits, and sleep is one of the biggest. A tired pup is a happy pup, but the first few weeks can feel like an all‑night vigil. Here are the most useful tricks to set up a solid sleep routine without breaking a sweat.
Create a Cozy Spot
Pick a quiet corner of the house and put a soft crate or bed there. Puppies feel safer in a den‑like space, so a crate with a blanket works wonders. Keep the area free of loud toys and sudden drafts. If the crate is covered, make sure there’s enough airflow.
Try a familiar scent – a t‑shirt you’ve worn or a blanket with your scent – to calm them. The smell connects the sleeping area with you, reducing anxiety the moment they settle down.
Set a Simple Bedtime Routine
Dogs love routine. Do the same three things every night: a short walk, a quick potty break, then a calm cuddle or petting session. Keep the lights low and speak in a soft voice. This signals to your puppy that it’s time to wind down.
Don’t feed a big meal right before bedtime. A light snack an hour ahead helps avoid bathroom trips in the night and keeps their tummy settled.
Stick to the same bedtime each night. Even if you’re tired, a consistent schedule trains their internal clock, so they’ll start feeling sleepy at the right hour.
If your puppy whines, wait a minute before rushing in. Sometimes they just need to settle on their own. If the crying continues, check for a need to go outside, then return them to the crate.
Crate training works best when the crate is a positive place. Toss a treat in, praise them when they go in, and never use the crate as punishment. Over time they’ll see it as a safe retreat.
Temperature matters too. Aim for a room temperature around 68‑72°F (20‑22°C). Too hot or too cold can make them restless. A fan or a light blanket can help fine‑tune the comfort level.
Lastly, keep the nighttime environment quiet. A white noise machine or a fan can mask outside sounds that might startle a puppy.
Follow these steps, and you’ll notice fewer midnight wake‑ups, less whining, and a more relaxed pup. Sleep well, both of you!
