Everything You Need to Know About Lungworm
With incidences of lungworm on the rise among dog owners across the UK, it’s becoming ever more important to protect your pet from the condition.
How to Help Your Puppy Sleep at Night
Bringing a new puppy home is an incredibly exciting time, but it can also be a challenge, especially when it comes to nighttime. Just like human babies, puppies need a lot of sleep, but they may struggle to settle down in their new environment.
At Eden Park Veterinary Surgery in Beckenham, we understand the joys and sleepless nights that come with a new addition to the family. This guide is designed to provide you with caring, practical advice to help your puppy – and you – get a good night’s rest.
How Much Do Puppies Sleep?
A young puppy, especially one under 12 weeks of age, can sleep for 18 to 20 hours a day. This sleep is crucial for their physical and mental development, helping their bodies grow and their brains process all the new information they are learning.
While they sleep a lot, it’s often in short bursts throughout the day and night. The key is to help them consolidate more of that sleep into a longer stretch at night, allowing both of you to rest.
Four Steps to Get Your Puppy to Sleep at Night
Getting a puppy to sleep through the night is a process that requires patience, consistency, and a little bit of planning. Here are four steps to guide you.
1. Give Them Plenty of Exercise During the Day
A tired puppy is a sleeping puppy! Ensure your puppy gets enough physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. This doesn’t mean a marathon run – a puppy’s joints and bones are still developing. Instead, focus on a few short, fun play sessions. Use toys, engage in some gentle training, and take them for short walks (if they are old enough and have had their vaccinations). The goal is to burn off some of their boundless energy so they are more likely to settle down in the evening.
2. Create a Safe and Comfortable Sleeping Space
Your puppy’s sleeping area should be their own little sanctuary. A crate is an excellent tool for this, as it provides a den-like feel that puppies instinctively love. Place the crate in a quiet, draft-free area, but initially, it’s a good idea to have it close to your bedroom so they feel less isolated. Fill the crate with a soft bed, a blanket, and a familiar-smelling item like an old t-shirt of yours. You could also include a safe chew toy to help them settle. Avoid making the crate a place of punishment; it should always be a positive and comfortable space.
3. Establish a Bedtime Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. A consistent bedtime schedule signals to your puppy that it’s time to wind down. Start this routine about 30 minutes before you want them to go to sleep. It could include a final potty break, some quiet cuddle time, and a small, calming treat. Once the routine is complete, lead them to their sleeping area with a calm and gentle demeanour. The consistency of this routine will help them learn what to expect and make the transition to sleep much smoother.
4. Address Nighttime Waking
It’s almost inevitable that your puppy will wake up during the night, especially in the first few weeks. It’s important to distinguish between a need to go to the toilet and a cry for attention. If your puppy wakes up, wait for a moment to see if they settle themselves. If they continue to cry, take them outside for a quick, boring potty break on a lead. Do not make a fuss, play with them, or give them treats. Keep it strictly business. Once they’ve done their business, immediately return them to their sleeping space. This teaches them that crying at night only results in a potty break, not playtime.
How to Get Your Puppy to Sleep Through the Night: Final Thoughts
Helping your puppy sleep through the night is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency is key, and it’s essential to be patient with both your puppy and yourself. The first few nights can be tough, but with a solid routine, a comfortable sleeping space, and plenty of exercise during the day, you will be well on your way to getting a full night’s sleep.
If you have any concerns about your puppy’s sleep patterns, or any other aspect of their health and well-being, please do not hesitate to contact us at Eden Park Veterinary Surgery in Beckenham. We are here to support you and your new furry family member. Call today to make an appointment or for general advice from one of our team.https://edenpark-vets.co.uk/
Share
Facebook
Twitter
More Articles
5 Reasons Why Your Dog Isn’t Eating
While it varies from breed to breed, most domestic dogs aren’t shy when it comes to mealtimes. This is what makes it so worrying when
