A new puppy can be an exciting new addition to your family! Nothing beats playing and puppy snuggles all day long. However, sometimes it can seem like these bundles of fur have a never-ending supply of energy during the day. Then, when the sun goes down, you have the joys of a puppy crying at night!
It may take a couple of nights before your pup begins to settle in and sleep through. However, with a routine and a few handy tips, you will be catching the zzz's in no time.
What to expect on the first night with a puppy
Regardless of their personalities, puppies' first nights at home can be a challenge! Your pup is likely used to sleeping with their siblings and mum, so not having them there may leave them feeling lonely and even scared of their new surroundings. You might find they whinge, bark and cry throughout the night in an attempt to get your attention.
The most important thing on the first night is to make your new furry baby feel safe. Moving them out of ear shot might help you get a few extra hours of sleep, but will do nothing to help in the long-term. Instead, try and offer them a sense of security by:
- Bringing them closer to you. Put a crate or carrier in your bedroom, or close to your room.
- Offer them your scent with a shirt or blanket that they can curl up with.
- Put them in the centre of the house – like the living room where they can be surrounded by the scents of your family.
Remember: As tempting as it can be, don’t bring them into your bed! That will only reinforce negative behaviours and can lead to toilet accidents in the middle of the night.
How to get a puppy to sleep through the night
Now that you have some insight into what your first night looks like, it’s time to get down to business. Puppy sleep training can come in various forms. Some pups will get into habits quickly, while others may need a little more help. Getting a full night of sleep for both you and your furry friend comes down to the puppy sleeping habits you encourage early in life.
Create a routine
From house training to leash training, puppies can be taught to understand routines. A puppy sleep schedule can also be useful to get your pup into good habits. Try to restrict their water and food intake a few hours before bed. Then, give them plenty of cuddles to unwind and make sure you get them into the habit of going outside for the toilet before you settle them into their bed or crate for the night. Try and keep the bedtime routine for a puppy the same every night, so they settle into it.
Tire your pup out
Preparation for bed can actually start in the afternoon! Let them use all their energy during play time, so they’ll be ready for sleep by the end of the day. Keep their mind ticking over with plenty of toys and activities during the day. You can also take them out for a walk (if they’re up-to-date with their vaccinations).
If they’re not ready to venture out into the world, keep them moving at home by playing together.
Keep bedtime calm
It’s important to remember that while you need to let them run off their energy during the day, bedtime should be calm. Try to avoid intense games and exercise an hour before bed. You can also try and surround your pup with familiar objects to help them settle. This may be a blanket with their scent on it, or even a fluffy toy for them to cuddle up to.
Other tips for a positive night routine
- When you get up in the middle of the night for a toilet break – keep it brief. The last thing you want your pup thinking is that it’s time for play or cuddles. Instead, simply take them out and bring them back into bed.
- Don’t give in to their whining or crying! As tempting as it is to try and soothe them with cuddles, it will only fuel negative habits.
- Try to avoid water and food right before bed. You’ll only increase the chances of a toilet accident.
The most important thing to remember is that the first few nights might be hard – but the addition of a new furry baby will be worth it.
FAQ:
How to stop a puppy crying at night?
There’s no easy fix to stop a crying puppy at night. All you can do is make sure to get them into good sleep habits. As they begin to settle in, you should find that they stop crying.
How long do puppies sleep for?
While puppies may appear to have unlimited energy – that’s because they sleep so much. A puppy will usually sleep anywhere between 18 and 20 hours a day.
Where should my puppy sleep at night time?
A lot of experts recommend you get your pup adjusted to their new home with a crate. By having them sleep in a crate near your bed, you can help them settle in. To learn more about crate training your new pup, click here.
