Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but when bedtime comes, many puppy owners are surprised to find their evenings filled with whining, restlessness, and middle-of-the-night wake-up calls. A calm and consistent bedtime routine can make all the difference, helping your puppy sleep soundly and making your nights more peaceful too.
Puppies thrive on structure. Just like human babies, they feel more secure and relaxed when they know what to expect. A predictable evening routine signals to your puppy that it’s time to wind down and rest. Here’s how to create the perfect bedtime routine for your furry friend.
Set a Regular Bedtime
Start by choosing a consistent bedtime for your puppy. Going to bed at the same time each night helps regulate their internal clock and sets healthy habits for life. Whether it’s 9 p.m. or 11 p.m., pick a time that fits your schedule and stick with it as closely as possible.
Provide Evening Exercise and Play
To help your puppy feel tired at night, they need a healthy balance of activity and rest throughout the day. A bit of active play in the early evening—like a game of fetch or a short walk—can help burn off extra energy. Just make sure you finish high-energy activities at least an hour before bedtime so they have time to wind down.
If your puppy is still full of energy at bedtime, it may be because they didn’t get enough stimulation during the day. Try adding short training sessions or interactive toys to their daily routine.
Avoid Overstimulation Before Bed
In the hour leading up to bedtime, avoid roughhousing or high-energy games. Instead, opt for calming activities like gentle petting, quiet toy time, or soft brushing. This helps your puppy’s body and mind settle into a more restful state.
Create a peaceful environment by dimming the lights, turning off loud TVs or music, and using soft voices during interactions. A calm environment helps signal that it’s time to relax.
Offer a Final Potty Break
Right before bed, take your puppy outside for one last potty break. Even if they went an hour ago, it’s important to give them another chance to relieve themselves. This step reduces the chances of accidents overnight and helps your puppy sleep longer without interruption.
Use a consistent phrase like “go potty” during every trip, and praise them calmly if they go. Keep it all business—no playtime during the bedtime potty trip.
Stick to a Feeding and Water Schedule
Feed your puppy dinner a few hours before bedtime. This gives them time to digest and go potty before the night. If your puppy eats too close to bedtime, it might cause nighttime discomfort or bathroom needs.
Consider removing access to water about 1–2 hours before bed—especially for younger puppies who are still learning bladder control. Just be sure your puppy stays well-hydrated throughout the day.
Create a Comfortable Sleep Space
Your puppy’s sleep environment should be quiet, cozy, and consistent. Whether you use a crate, playpen, or a puppy bed in your room, it’s important that your puppy has a designated sleep spot they feel safe in.
Add soft blankets or a bed that’s the right size—not too big, not too small. A piece of clothing with your scent can provide extra comfort. Some puppies also respond well to white noise machines or calming music.
Crate training can be a helpful part of a bedtime routine. Many puppies feel secure in a crate, and it can help with house training too. Just make sure the crate is associated with positive experiences, not punishment.
Practice a Simple Nighttime Cue
Over time, your puppy will learn to associate certain words or actions with bedtime. Use a calm phrase like “time for bed” and repeat it every night right before settling them in. Pairing this with a treat or a favorite toy can reinforce the positive connection.
Keep things low-energy. No need for long cuddles or goodbyes—just a calm, consistent message that it’s time to sleep.
Handle Nighttime Whining Gently
It’s normal for puppies to cry or whine during the night, especially in the first few weeks. They may be adjusting to sleeping alone or feeling unsure in a new environment.
If your puppy whines, wait a moment before responding. Rushing in can teach them that whining gets attention. If the whining continues, check calmly to see if they need to go out or are genuinely upset. Over time, the whining will decrease as your puppy adjusts to the routine.
Be Patient and Stay Consistent
The first few nights might be tough, but don’t give up. Puppies need time to learn that nighttime is for sleeping, not playing or exploring. Your consistency is what teaches them what to expect.
If you stick to a calm, structured routine each night, your puppy will soon begin to settle more easily—and you’ll both get more rest.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect bedtime routine for your puppy isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being consistent, calm, and responsive to your puppy’s needs. With a little patience and a predictable routine, your puppy will learn to look forward to bedtime—and you’ll enjoy quieter, more restful nights.
If you’re struggling with sleepless nights or have questions about your puppy’s sleep habits, don’t hesitate to consult your vet or a local trainer for guidance. Every puppy is unique, but with the right routine, peaceful nights are absolutely possible. Petsdogpuppy