How to Get Your Puppy to Sleep Through the Night

Bringing a puppy home is an exciting time. It’s important to prepare for their first nights with you to ensure they feel comfortable and settle into their new environment. 

Puppies are experiencing a significant transition, leaving behind their mum and littermates, and your preparation can make all the difference. Here's a comprehensive guide to help your puppy sleep peacefully through the night while fostering a strong bond.

Where Will Your Puppy Sleep at Night?

Deciding where your puppy will sleep is a personal choice.

Each option comes with its own considerations, and your decision will shape your puppy's adjustment process. Here are the common options and recommendations:

• In Your Bedroom:

1. Initially, having your puppy sleep in your bedroom, either in a dog bed or crate, can provide reassurance and make them feel secure, helping them adjust to their new environment more comfortably. This proximity allows you to monitor their needs and address any signs of distress promptly.

2. This setup helps with house training since your puppy can alert you when they need to go outside during the night. Although tiring, this approach often speeds up house training, fostering a routine that both you and your puppy can rely on.

• In Another Room:

1. If you prefer your puppy to sleep in a different room, it’s best to gradually transition them from sleeping near you to their designated sleeping area. This ensures that they don’t feel abandoned during the adjustment period.
2. If you have another dog that sleeps well away from you, they can help your puppy feel more at ease by providing companionship. However, keep an eye on interactions, as some puppies may pester older dogs, leading to frustration or restlessness for both animals.

Note: Puppies may feel scared or lonely at night, especially if they’re used to being with their mum and littermates. Signs of fear or loneliness can include whining, pacing, or refusing to settle down. Recognizing these behaviors allows you to respond with reassurance and create a comforting environment for them.

Remember, some puppies take longer than others to adapt to new surroundings, so patience and consistency are key.

Can My Puppy Sleep in My Bed?

There’s nothing wrong with letting your puppy sleep in your bed, but consider:

• If your puppy will grow into a large dog, they may take up significant space, potentially disrupting your sleep over time.
• Ensure it’s a decision you’re comfortable maintaining long-term, as sharing a bed with your puppy can create a strong bond but may also lead to challenges, such as disrupted sleep or limited space as they grow. Additionally, it’s important to consider allergies or personal preferences that might make sharing a bed less ideal in the long run.

Should I Leave My Puppy to Cry at Night?

No, do not leave your puppy to cry. Being separated from their mum and litter is a significant adjustment, and leaving them alone to cry can:

• Increase stress and anxiety, potentially creating a negative association with nighttime.
• Disrupt their sleep, leading to tiredness and irritability during the day, which may affect their learning and behavior.

Instead, focus on gradually helping them feel secure at night. Offering comfort and reassurance during their adjustment period will help build their confidence and sense of safety.

Getting Your Puppy Used to Being Alone at Night

If you plan for your puppy to sleep away from you, remember:

• Puppies may feel nervous initially in their new home. This is a normal reaction to unfamiliar surroundings and separation from their littermates.
• Gradually build their confidence to sleep alone by creating a safe and comfortable space tailored to their needs.

Preparing for Bedtime

• Create a comfortable sleeping area for your puppy with a cozy bed or crate. Include a blanket or toy that smells familiar to them, as this can provide a sense of security.
• Ensure they’ve had a chance to go to the toilet before bedtime to minimize interruptions during the night.

Settling Your Puppy at Night

• After their last toilet trip, place them in their bed or crate next to you. Maintain a calm demeanor to signal that it’s time to settle down.
• If they whine or seem restless, stay calm and consistent. This adjustment period is normal and typically improves over time with persistence.
• If they appear to need the toilet again, take them outside quietly and calmly, then resettle them. Avoid excessive interaction to prevent them from associating nighttime with playtime.

Gradual Separation

After a few nights, once your puppy has settled:

• Gradually move their bed or crate further away from you, inch by inch, to their desired sleeping location. This process may take several days to a few weeks, depending on your puppy’s comfort level and temperament.
• This slow transition helps them adapt without feeling sudden separation anxiety. Consistency and encouragement are crucial during this phase to reinforce their sense of security.

Avoid Using the Bed as Punishment

Never send your puppy to their bed as a form of punishment. This can create negative associations with their sleeping area, making it harder for them to settle at night. Instead, ensure that their sleeping area remains a positive and safe space where they feel relaxed and at ease.

Final Tips

• Be patient and persistent. Some puppies may take longer to settle than others, but consistency will pay off in the long run.
• Keep the nighttime routine calm and consistent to signal that it’s time to sleep. Avoid stimulating activities or loud noises close to bedtime.
• Celebrate small victories, such as longer stretches of uninterrupted sleep, to track progress and stay motivated.

With these tips, your puppy will soon learn to sleep through the night, helping both of you enjoy peaceful evenings and well-rested mornings. This adjustment period is a valuable opportunity to build trust and establish a strong, lasting bond with your new companion.