Where Should My New Puppy Sleep at Night?
As tempting as it may be to let your puppy sleep in your bed on day one, it’s important to establish good sleep habits from the beginning. Adjusting to a new environment can be challenging for your puppy, but creating a proper sleep routine will be a win-win for you both. Most importantly, it will help your puppy feel safe and secure at your home.
The Importance of a Puppy’s Sleeping Space
Designating a specific place for your puppy to sleep provides many benefits for their well-being:
- Sense of security – Providing a safe, designated sleeping space helps your puppy feel secure as they adjust to their new environment.
- Prevents wandering – Once your puppy has an established sleeping area, they are less likely to roam the house at night in search of another spot. Having an established sleep area also lowers the risk of potty accidents in the house.
- Provides developmental growth – Like humans, puppies need plenty of sleep to support their growth and brain development. A well-rested puppy is a happy puppy.
Establishing a Nightly Routine for Your Puppy
A consistent bedtime routine helps your puppy recognize when it’s time to settle down for the night. Here are a few tips to incorporate into your routine:
- Nightly Play – Engage in 10-15 minutes of playtime to tire your puppy out before bed. Burning off excess energy helps them sleep more deeply.
- Limit food and drink – Restricting food and water intake in the hour before bedtime can reduce the need for late-night potty breaks.
- Calming sounds– Playing music or turning on a white noise machine helps calm puppies and can increase the chances of deep sleep.
- Avoid late-night distractions – Try to avoid making noise near the puppy’s sleeping area. Placing them in a less traveled area in the house is best for sleep quality.
Different Sleeping Options for Your Puppy
There are several tried-and-true methods for where your puppy can sleep during their first few months in a new home. Here are some recommendations:
- Crate training – A dog crate provides a den-like environment where your puppy can feel safe, secure, and comfortable. Crate training also helps with potty training, as dogs typically avoid soiling where they sleep. While your puppy may cry or be unsettled during the first week, they will soon view the crate as their own cozy space.
- Dog playpen – If crate training isn’t for you, consider letting your puppy sleep in a playpen with a comfy dog bed and comforting items like blankets or toys. However, be mindful that some puppies may find ways to escape, especially if they’re skilled jumpers or climbers!
- Gated area – Another option, similar to a playpen but more of a DIY approach, is to section off a part of your home for your puppy to sleep. Carpeted areas can provide added comfort, or you can fill the space with blankets and a dog bed for extra snuggles.
Where Your Puppy Shouldn’t Sleep During the First Week at Home
As tempting as it may be to let your cute, new puppy sleep in bed with you, it’s important to give them time to adjust. Here are a few areas to avoid during your puppy’s first week at home:
- Your bed – While your bed might seem perfect for nighttime snuggles, it shouldn’t be where your puppy sleeps at first. Allowing them to adjust to their new environment independently is important, as letting them sleep in your bed too soon can lead to separation anxiety later on.
- Free roam – Allowing your puppy to freely roam the house at night can lead to accidents and confusion about where their designated sleeping space is. Establishing a clear den area is highly recommended.
- Outside – New puppies should not sleep outside initially. The wilderness at dusk can be frightening and potentially dangerous, exposing them to risks like wildlife or the elements.
Common Challenges at Night
Bringing home a new puppy isn’t easy—it requires patience and effort. Here are some common challenges you may face:
- Noisy puppy – Barking or crying at night is common, especially for puppies in a crate. If this happens, speak calmly to reassure them, but don’t immediately rush to their side.
- Bathroom breaks – Puppies have tiny bladders, so expect frequent potty breaks, especially during the night and early morning. Make sure to monitor their bathroom habits to prevent accidents.
- Anxious puppy – Some puppies might feel anxious at night and struggle to settle down. To help ease their anxiety, try placing an item of clothing with your scent in their sleeping area or sitting nearby at bedtime to reassure them.
We are excited about your new puppy and hope this guide helps both of you enjoy peaceful nights ahead!
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*Blog submitted by Keystone Puppies
Keystone Puppies
(717) 492-4396
Lancaster, PA
