As a new puppy owner, you stocked up on all the tools of the trade, from age-appropriate kibble to teething toys. You adjusted your schedule to account for feeding, training, and walking. What you didn’t anticipate was the complex and sometimes frustrating puppy sleep schedule. Read on to learn more about helping your puppy to sleep better and longer (so you can catch more Zs, too).
The Value of Crate Training
Crate training has its supporters and detractors, but we find that it can be a useful tool, especially for puppies. When used properly, crates can function like dens, providing comfort and safety. They can also keep your puppy out of trouble while you’re sleeping.
When choosing a crate, make sure it’s big enough that your puppy can sit, stand, and lay down comfortably. Keep the crate in a temperature-regulated space (like the living room rather than the garage) and make sure it’s within hearing distance of your own bedroom. If your puppy shows signs of separation anxiety, consider placing a blanket or towel that smells like you in the crate with them.
Developing a Puppy Bedtime Routine
Like the human body, dogs produce a variety of hormones that can regulate or disrupt their sleep. Developing an appropriate bedtime behavior can set your puppy up for sleeping success, particularly if they have a tendency to resist winding down for bed.
Aim to feed your puppy dinner at least three hours before you put them to bed. Avoid rigorous playtime for at least one hour before bedtime. Make sure to walk them or let them out to potty in that final hour, as well. The goal is to make sure they’re full but not actively digesting, restful rather than excited, and able to sleep for at least a few hours before needing to go to the bathroom again.
Puppy Age and Bathroom Needs
No matter how thorough your puppy’s bedtime routine is, age will determine how often she needs to get up to pee. In other words, your puppy won’t be able to sleep eight straight hours until they’re older. How often will puppies need to go out at night?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer but expect to go out every three to four hours until your puppy is at least three months old. By six months, your puppy may be able to hold it as long as six hours. Talk to your vet if you feel that your puppy is peeing too frequently for her age.
Identifying Nighttime Attention-Seeking Behavior
Puppies tend to vocalize their need to go out at night, which is why you should keep the crate within earshot. However, some puppies may also bark or cry simply because they want your attention. If your puppy starts crying within an hour of her last potty break, she’s probably attention-seeking, and getting her up just teaches her that attention-seeking is rewarded.
At ADU, we’re here to help dogs discover their best behavior. Learn more about our training programs and let’s talk about which one is right for your needs.