Just like us humans, dogs need a good night’s rest. And like humans, some dogs can experience restlessness at night and have trouble settling down to sleep. If you’re dealing with a restless dog, here’s how to calm a restless dog at night:

1. Establish a Sleep Routine

A good daily routine for your dog, including an evening and sleep routine, can be really helpful in helping your dog sleep well. Dogs tend to thrive on routine because they like predictability and consistency. Not having a routine is one of the ways you might be annoying your dog, so if you don’t have one, you should think about starting one.

Try a bedtime routine that allows your dog to calm down for the evening. These activities might vary, depending on your dog’s personality, but you can try a short and leisurely walk, some light grooming, or a low-key playtime. You can also try to create a more calming atmosphere with dimmer lights that can help signal to your dog that it’s soon time to sleep.

2. Make Them A Cozy Sleep Space

Dogs like to feel safe when they sleep, so make sure they have a cozy and comfortable spot. Dog beds can be a good option for their sleeping spot. There are a few things to consider as you choose a dog bed, like your dog’s size and the type of bed that works in your home.

If your dog seems to avoid their sleeping spot, you might need to try a few other spots around the house to see if something suits them better. You can also try using some positive reinforcement by putting a treat or two on their bed until they consistently go there to sleep.

3. Help Them Relax With Dog-Friendly Sounds

Because dogs have such a strong sense of hearing, the smallest noise can distract them and make them restless. If you suspect noises are keeping your dog up, you can try some dog-friendly sounds to help them sleep.

There are music streaming services such as Spotify and YouTube that offer playlists and songs specifically produced with dogs in mind. These songs and sounds can help your dog feel safe and calm, guaranteeing a peaceful night of rest for your furry friend.

4. Make Sure They Get Enough Exercise

If you’ve ever laid down on your bed after a long and tiring day, you know how easy it is to fall asleep. The same goes for dogs, so making sure they get plenty of exercise can help your dog sleep through the night. If they’re restless, this could be a sign your dog isn’t getting enough exercise.

The amount of exercise a dog needs will depend on their size or breed, so it’s important to be aware of what your dog’s specific needs are. Age and any health conditions will also be contributing factors to the amount of exercise each dog needs. If you aren’t sure, be sure to talk to your veterinarian. They can offer you advice and help you determine what is best for your pet.

5. Give Them Something to Cuddle With

Some dogs seek comfort in their toys, so make sure they have something soft to cuddle with while they sleep. If possible, try to get them something new so they associate this specific toy with bedtime.

It will give them something to look forward to and to entice them to settle down for a nice rest. Making sure your dog or puppy has a toy or stuffed animal to cuddle with is just one of the tips to help your puppy sleep through the night.

These are just a few tips for how to calm a restless dog at night. Implementing some of these tips may help your dog settle down and allow them (and you!) to enjoy a good night’s sleep!