If your puppy is waking you up multiple times during the night, you’re not alone. Restless nights are one of the most common challenges for new puppy owners. But here’s the good news: what you do during the day plays a big role in how well your puppy sleeps at night.
Just like human babies, puppies need structure, routine, and the right activities throughout the day to feel tired and relaxed by bedtime. Let’s explore the most effective daytime habits that help your puppy settle in for a peaceful night’s sleep.
1. Create a Consistent Wake-Up Time
Start your puppy’s day at the same time every morning. A consistent wake-up schedule helps regulate their internal clock and sets the tone for a balanced day. When your puppy wakes up at different times every day, it becomes harder for their body to know when it’s time to wind down at night.
Consistency is key—even on weekends. Over time, your puppy will naturally become sleepy around the same time each night.
2. Morning Potty and Play Session
First thing in the morning, take your puppy outside to go potty. After that, engage them in a fun, energetic play session. Morning activity wakes up their body and mind and helps burn off the excitement from a night of rest.
Some great morning play options include:
- Gentle tug-of-war
- Fetch in a safe yard
- Short leash walks
- Puzzle toys or sniffing games
This morning routine sets them up for a calm, well-regulated day ahead.
3. Feed Meals on a Schedule
Feeding your puppy at the same times each day helps keep their digestion regular and predictable. Most puppies need 3 meals a day until they’re about 6 months old.
Try to feed your puppy early enough in the evening so they have time to digest and go potty before bedtime. Feeding too late can result in middle-of-the-night potty breaks or restlessness.
4. Include Mental Stimulation Throughout the Day
Physical exercise is important, but don’t forget about mental exercise. Puppies tire out just as much from learning and thinking as they do from running around.
Add some of these brain games into your puppy’s day:
- Short training sessions (sit, stay, come)
- Food-dispensing toys
- Hide-and-seek with treats
- Learning a new trick
Even 5–10 minutes of training a few times a day can go a long way in helping your puppy feel satisfied and calm by bedtime.
5. Balance Activity With Naps
Puppies need a lot of sleep—up to 18–20 hours a day. But too much napping too close to bedtime can lead to nighttime zoomies. The key is spreading naps evenly throughout the day and avoiding long naps in the evening.
Help your puppy nap after play sessions or meals by providing a quiet, cozy spot like a crate, playpen, or soft bed away from distractions. If they resist napping, use a chew toy or calming music to encourage rest.
6. Encourage Gentle Evening Wind-Down Time
In the hour or two before bedtime, start to shift your puppy’s activity level. Avoid intense games or high-energy interactions right before bed.
Instead, try:
- A gentle walk around the block
- Cuddling or brushing
- Calm indoor play
- A low-energy toy or soft chew
This helps your puppy transition from an active day to a sleepy state of mind.
7. Limit Water in the Evening
While your puppy should always have access to fresh water during the day, consider picking up the water bowl 1–2 hours before bedtime. This helps reduce the chance of overnight potty needs—especially for younger puppies.
Just make sure they’ve had enough to drink throughout the day, and that they get a final potty trip before going to bed.
8. One Last Potty Break Before Bed
Always take your puppy out right before bedtime—even if they just went an hour ago. This final bathroom trip helps them sleep longer without needing a middle-of-the-night outing.
Keep this potty break calm and focused. No playing or distractions—just a quick trip out, followed by praise if they go.
9. Create a Comfortable, Sleep-Friendly Environment
Your puppy’s sleep space should be quiet, dark, and cozy. Whether they sleep in a crate or a dog bed, add a blanket or soft towel and consider using a white noise machine to block outside sounds.
Keeping their sleep space in a consistent location also helps signal to your puppy that it’s time to rest.
10. Be Patient With the Process
Even with the best daytime habits, puppies may still wake up during the night for the first few weeks. They’re adjusting to a new environment, learning bladder control, and developing sleep patterns.
Stick with your routine, stay patient, and avoid turning nighttime wake-ups into playtime. Your consistency will pay off, and soon your puppy will be sleeping soundly through the night.
Conclusion
Helping your puppy sleep better at night starts long before bedtime. By building healthy daytime habits—like consistent routines, play sessions, mental stimulation, and timely naps—you’ll teach your puppy how to relax and rest when it matters most.
These habits not only help with sleep but also lay the foundation for a happy, well-adjusted dog. With patience, structure, and love, you and your puppy will both enjoy more peaceful nights ahead.