Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
If your dog isn’t sleeping well, you’re probably not sleeping well either.
Whether they’re pacing the house at 2 a.m., whining for attention, or just can’t seem to settle, sleepless nights can leave both you and your pup feeling cranky and exhausted.
But don’t worry—we’ve been there, and we’re here to help.
Dogs, like humans, need quality sleep to stay healthy and happy.
If your dog is struggling to snooze, there’s usually a reason behind it.
Let’s explore why your dog might be having trouble with their sleep cycle and what you can do about it.
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Common Reasons Your Dog Isn’t Sleeping
Here are some of the most common culprits behind a restless dog:
Discomfort or Pain
Dogs can’t tell us when something hurts, but they’ll show it in their behavior. If your dog is restless, they might be dealing with joint pain, an upset stomach, or another physical issue.
Tip: Look for signs like limping, excessive licking, or whining. If you suspect pain, consult your vet.
Anxiety or Stress
Dogs are sensitive creatures, and changes in their environment—like a move, a new pet, or even a thunderstorm—can leave them feeling anxious.
Tip: Try calming techniques like a white noise machine, a cozy crate, or a calming treat.
Lack of Exercise
A bored dog is a restless dog. If your pup hasn’t burned off enough energy during the day, they might struggle to settle at night.
Tip: Make sure your dog gets plenty of physical and mental stimulation. A long walk or a game of fetch before bed can work wonders.
Dietary Issues
Eating too late at night or consuming the wrong foods can disrupt your dog’s sleep.
Tip: Feed your dog at least a few hours before bedtime and avoid giving them sugary or fatty treats late in the evening.
Age-Related Changes
Puppies and senior dogs often have trouble sleeping. Puppies may need more frequent potty breaks, while older dogs might wake up due to cognitive decline or health issues.
Tip: For puppies, establish a consistent bedtime routine. For seniors, talk to your vet about possible solutions like supplements or medications.
How to Help Your Dog Sleep Better (Puppy Sleep Through The Night)
New puppy parents often struggle with puppy whining and crying at night. The first night with puppy can be especially challenging, but don’t worry—we’ve got some proven puppy night training sleep strategies.
Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment
Our dogs aren’t that different from us in that they love a cozy, quiet spot to sleep too. Make sure their bed is soft, clean, and in a low-traffic area of your home.
Pro Tip: If your dog sleeps in a crate, add a blanket or a crate cover to make it feel like a den. (Crate Training Puppy At Night)
Stick to a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Try to feed, walk, and put your dog to bed at the same time every day (establish a Puppy Sleep Schedule). This consistency helps their internal clock stay on track.
Address Anxiety
If your dog is anxious, consider calming aids like:
- A snug-fitting anxiety wrap (like a ThunderShirt)
- Calming supplements with ingredients like melatonin or chamomile
- Gentle music or white noise to drown out scary sounds
Provide Plenty of Exercise
A tired dog is a happy dog. Make sure your pup gets at least 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily, depending on their breed and age.
Limit Late-Night Snacks
Avoid feeding your dog too close to bedtime. If they’re hungry, a small, healthy snack like a piece of carrot or apple can tide them over without disrupting their sleep.
Consult Your Vet
If you’ve tried everything and your dog is still struggling to sleep, it’s time to call in the pros. Your vet can rule out medical issues and recommend treatments if necessary.
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Quick Reference Table: Common Sleep Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pacing or whining | Anxiety or discomfort | Try calming aids or consult your vet |
| Frequent waking | Age-related issues | Establish a routine; vet check-up |
| Restless energy | Lack of exercise | Increase daily activity |
| Trouble settling | Uncomfortable bed | Upgrade to a supportive dog bed |
| Barking at night | Boredom or loneliness | Provide mental stimulation before bed |
A Final Word of Encouragement
Helping your dog sleep better might take some trial and error, but don’t lose hope.
Dogs are creatures of habit, and with a little patience and consistency, you can help them (and yourself) enjoy peaceful nights again.
As one wise dog owner once said, “A well-rested dog is a happy dog—and a happy dog makes for a happy home.”
