A restless dog at night can disturb your sleep and affect their well-being. Whether your dog wakes up frequently, paces around, or whines for attention, teaching them to sleep through the night is essential for a peaceful home.
In this guide, we’ll explore why dogs struggle with nighttime restlessness and how to create a routine that helps them sleep soundly.
Why Won’t My Dog Sleep Through the Night?
Dogs may have trouble sleeping for various reasons, including:
- Excess energy: Not enough exercise during the day.
- Hunger: An empty stomach can cause restlessness.
- Discomfort: An uncomfortable sleeping area or temperature issues.
- Bathroom needs: Puppies and senior dogs may need potty breaks.
- Separation anxiety: Some dogs struggle with being alone at night.
- Nocturnal habits: Some breeds are naturally more active at night.
Now, let’s explore how to train your dog to sleep through the night.
Step 1: Establish a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on routine, so having a structured daily schedule helps them feel secure and relaxed at bedtime.
✔ Set a fixed bedtime and wake-up time every day.
✔ Stick to a predictable evening routine (dinner, walk, quiet time, bed).
✔ Avoid drastic schedule changes that can confuse your dog.
✔ A consistent schedule signals to your dog when it’s time to sleep.
Step 2: Provide Enough Exercise During the Day
A well-exercised dog is more likely to sleep through the night.
✔ Take your dog for a long walk or play session in the evening.
✔ Engage them in interactive games like fetch or tug-of-war.
✔ Provide mental stimulation (puzzle toys, training exercises) to tire them out.
✔ A tired dog is a sleepy dog!
Step 3: Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment
Your dog’s sleeping area should be quiet, cozy, and free of distractions.
✔ Provide a comfortable dog bed that suits their size and sleeping style.
✔ Keep the room dark and quiet (use blackout curtains if needed).
✔ Ensure the temperature is comfortable—not too hot or cold.
✔ Place a soft blanket or your scent nearby for comfort.
✔ If your dog sleeps in a crate, make sure it feels like a safe den.
Step 4: Feed Your Dog at the Right Time
Hunger can keep dogs awake, so time their last meal appropriately.
✔ Feed them 2-3 hours before bedtime to allow for digestion.
✔ Avoid feeding too late, which may cause bathroom interruptions.
✔ Provide a light snack (like a dental chew) if they seem hungry before bed.
✔ A well-fed dog is less likely to wake up searching for food.
Step 5: Take a Final Bathroom Break
Dogs may wake up if they need to relieve themselves, especially puppies and seniors.
✔ Always take your dog out for one last potty break before bed.
✔ Keep the trip calm and quiet—no playtime or excitement.
✔ If your dog is still having accidents, consider limiting water intake before bed.
✔ A final bathroom break helps prevent nighttime wake-ups.
Step 6: Teach the “Go to Bed” Command
Training your dog to go to bed on command helps reinforce bedtime behavior.
How to Train It:
- Lead your dog to their bed and say “Go to bed.”
- Reward them with a treat for lying down.
- Repeat nightly until they go to bed on their own.
✔ This teaches them that bedtime means settling down, not playtime.
Step 7: Avoid Giving Attention at Night
If your dog wakes up and whines for attention, responding will reinforce the behavior.
✔ Ignore nighttime whining unless they need a bathroom break.
✔ If they wake up, calmly guide them back to bed without talking.
✔ Avoid playing or feeding them, as this encourages wakefulness.
✔ Stay consistent—eventually, they’ll learn to sleep through the night.
Step 8: Use Calming Aids if Necessary
Some dogs need extra help settling down at night.
✔ Calming dog beds with soft padding can provide comfort.
✔ White noise machines or soft music can block outside noises.
✔ Dog-calming pheromone diffusers (Adaptil) help anxious dogs.
✔ An anxiety wrap (like a ThunderShirt) can help dogs who struggle with nighttime anxiety.
✔ These aids can help your dog relax and sleep better.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
If your dog continues struggling with sleep despite training, consult a vet if they show:
✔ Frequent restlessness or pacing at night.
✔ Signs of pain or discomfort (limping, whining).
✔ Increased bathroom trips, which could indicate medical issues.
✔ Sudden behavioral changes affecting sleep.
Conclusion
Training your dog to sleep through the night requires consistency, patience, and the right bedtime routine. By ensuring they get enough exercise, providing a comfortable sleep space, and reinforcing good nighttime habits, your dog will learn to rest peacefully.
With time and proper training, both you and your furry friend can enjoy uninterrupted nights of sleep!