How do you get a Dog to Sleep at Night?
A good night's sleep is essential for your dog's health, and having a sleep routine and schedule also benefits dogs in other ways. A dog will feel more secure with a predictable routine, and it will also make your life easier. Knowing how to put a dog to sleep is a skill that many pet owners, particularly puppy owners, will appreciate. Dogs sleep more than humans, and most of the time they are content to sleep when we go to bed. If your pet keeps you awake all night pacing and playing, you may need to make some changes to the dog's overall daily routine. Small changes in their diet, daily environment, and regular routine can help your dog sleep better.
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How Much Sleep should Your Dog Get?
Dogs will sleep for 12 to 18 hours per day. This is typical. However, how much your dog sleeps is determined by a variety of factors. Older dogs will sleep more because they tire easily from medical conditions associated with old age, such as arthritis and diabetes. Puppies, like newborn babies, require more rest. They do not have large reserves of energy, but they expend a lot of it when exploring their surroundings and growing. The health of a dog, regardless of age, is critical to consider. Disorders such as epilepsy will have a significant impact on how much sleep your dog gets. It is also possible for dogs to have chronic sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, which would affect how many hours they sleep per day.
The breed of a dog also influences how much sleep he requires. There are several dog breeds that are known for sleeping all day. There is a size correlation, and it has been observed that larger breeds sleep slightly more than small dogs. Their health and hormone balance will also have an impact on their sleeping habits. Canines who are bored, depressed, or apathetic, for example, are more likely to sleep. Even the seasons can have an impact on your dog's sleeping habits. Due to a lack of sunlight and increased melatonin production, dogs sleep more in the winter.
Seven Tips on How to Make a Dog Sleep at Night
1. Make dog night time routine.
Every dog requires a routine. They can't get used to anything if their schedule is erratic. They'll never know what's going to happen next, making it impossible for them to figure out what they're supposed to be doing.
The dog will need a specific daily routine for:
- Walks
- Exercise/Playtime
- Feeding
- Naps
- Bedtime
Your dog should only nap in the morning and afternoon. You don't want him to nap within 2 hours of going to bed. If the dog sleeps before going to bed, he won't be tired when it's time to sleep, which defeats the purpose. You should also feed your pet three to four hours before going to bed. That will give you plenty of time to use the bathroom before retiring for the night. Set aside 1-1.5 hours before bedtime for your energetic dog to play.
2. Exercise Can Help a Dog Sleep.
I mentioned fitting in some play time before bedtime, but it's also critical that your dog expends all of his mental and physical energy during the day. If not, he may wake up in the middle of the night feeling refreshed. Do you spend the majority of your day at work? That's fine. You can leave puzzle toys for your dog to play with during the day. You can also use a pet camera to check in on and play with your dog during the day. When possible, take your dog outside for some playtime. Check out your neighborhood dog park, go for a long walk, or stop by some dog-friendly establishments. Try not to repeat yourself every day. The more variety your dog has in his or her life, the more mentally stimulating it will be.
3. Relaxation can aid in getting a dog to sleep.
Is it possible to sleep when your mind is racing? What if you're agitated because of a dramatic event? If you expect your dog to sleep, you must first ensure that he is relaxed, calm, not anxious, and not stressed. You should ease him into bedtime. After you've exhausted all of the dog's energy, take some quiet time about 30 minutes before bedtime. Before going to bed, you can unwind, snuggle, or simply lounge around. This will give Fido time to relax before settling in for the night.
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4. To Help Your Dog Sleep, Try Calming Music or White Noise.
Certain types of music have been shown to be effective in calming dogs. According to a new study published in the Journal of Physiology and Behavior, the two genres that calm dogs the most are reggae and soft rock. Certain dog sleep studies also mentioned classical music. If you can sleep with quiet music playing, having some on as background noise while sleeping may be beneficial. The music can help keep your dog from feeling lonely, and the soothing sounds will help the dog sleep peacefully. Alternatively, a white noise machine could be used. If you're interested in learning more about the use of white machines and other similar devices to create ambient for making a dog sleep at night, I've previously done a podcast on the subject. You can consult your veterinarian to determine which make and model is best for your dog.
5. Give your Dog a Bed for Comfortable Sleep.
You might not mind your dog sleeping in your bed, but it's not ideal for either of you. It is not necessary to provide your dog with a pet bed, but there are advantages for both of you. A bed provides your dog with his own space and is likely to encourage him to sleep at night. A cushion between your pet and the ground also helps to soften the pressure on a dog's limbs and ease any arthritic pain he may have if he sleeps on the floor normally. Your dog will be more comfortable in his own dog bed, and you will most likely sleep better as well. When Fido moves, you won't wake up, and vice versa.
6. Chew Toys Can Help a Dog Sleep.
Dogs find licking and chewing to be soothing. When a dog is mentally stressed or overstimulated, they chew and destroy things to relieve their anxiety and energy. This could be crucial for dogs who have a hard time falling asleep at night. Before bed, give your pet a variety of chew toys or a licking toy coated in peanut butter to help soothe and relax him. Not every dog enjoys chewing, especially before going to bed, but licking toys should appeal to even the most picky pups.
7. Give a Dog Supplements to Help Them Sleep.
If all else fails, there are a number of natural sleep aids for dogs that are both safe and effective. Melatonin is the most commonly used sleep aid for dogs who won't sleep at night. This should only be used as a last resort, and it's best to consult with your veterinarian before giving your pet an over-the-counter sleep supplement. Melatonin for dogs is safe and commonly used, but the dosage must be very precise based on the dog's age, size, health condition, and as recommended by a veterinarian. Melatonin should not be given to pregnant or nursing dogs to induce sleep, and it should not be given to puppies under the age of 12 weeks.
Melatonin is typically given to dogs in the following approximate dosage:
- Dog under 10 lbs: 1 mg melatonin
- Dog's of 10-25 lbs: 1.5 mg melatonin
- Dog of 26-100 lbs: 3 mg melatonin
- Dog over 100 lbs: 3-6 mg melatonin
It is best to use melatonin designed for pets rather than humans. These are typically available as either melatonin-only supplements or as calming sleep aid for dogs supplements that include melatonin among other ingredients. Melatonin for humans may contain xylitol, a toxin to dogs.
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