guest blog by Krista Harper
Few things in life are more fun than having a puppy in the household—until it’s time to go to bed. Young dogs can feel anxious, lonely, and have a hard time adjusting to their new environment. Puppies need as many as 20 hours of sleep per day, but they also have a lot of energy. They may cry and bark, preventing you from getting a good night’s rest.
Fortunately, there are a few tactics you can try to help ease the new member of your family into sleeping. Here are three tips to helping your puppy sleep through the night.
1. Establish a Bedtime Routine
Puppies are a lot like kids—they thrive on routine, which also helps keep them calmer as they know what to expect. You should create a bedtime routine for your pup that includes some playtime, walking them outside so they can relieve themselves, and even giving them a treat or snack. Try to make it consistent and soon your dog will get used to this nightly ritual and may even look forward to it.
2. Make Their Crate Comfortable
Although it’s OK to allow your puppy to sleep with you once they’re trained, vets generally recommend putting them into a crate where they can’t make a mess in your home or get destructive while you’re sleeping. You can make their crate feel welcoming and comforting by including a cozy dog bed or blanket, a toy (including interactive ones that encourage them to work for a treat) and a Puppy Starter Kit that includes a cuddle buddy made for puppies such as the Smart Pet Love Snuggle Puppy. This stuffed companion provides warmth and a heartbeat that dogs can hear and feel, providing the same comfort their mother or siblings did not long ago.
3. Get a White Noise Machine
White noise helps block out distracting background sounds such as traffic, conversation, and outdoor animals. If you live in a neighborhood that gets noise at night, a white noise machine—which can be heard by dogs—may help prevent your puppy from feeling nervous and encourage them to fall asleep. You can invest in one that creates nature-based sounds such as falling rain and rustling leaves.
When your puppy is house trained, you can begin taking them to bed with you. No doubt your presence will help them fall and stay asleep. Sleeping with your pet is also one way to ease your own anxiety as well as stress and depression. It will also deepen the bond you have with your puppy.
Happiness is a Warm Sleepy Puppy
Helping your puppy sleep soundly through the night can be a big hurdle as a dog owner, but don’t be discouraged if your best friend doesn’t get the hang of it right away. Stay consistent and once they get used to the routine, lights out will come easier for both of you. Here at Lucky Dogs we carry several products that naturally calm dogs and help you with training. Stop into our store or shop our selection of dog products to learn more.
