Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting experience, but it also comes with some sleepless nights. If you’re wondering whether puppies sleep through the night, the short answer is – not always, at least not at first. Let’s explore what’s normal for puppy sleep patterns and how you can help your new fur baby get on track.

Why Don’t Puppies Sleep Through the Night?

Just like human babies, puppies need time to adjust to their new environment and develop a consistent sleep routine. When they’re young, puppies are learning to regulate their bladder, adapt to a new sleep schedule, and adjust to being away from their littermates. It’s normal for them to wake up multiple times during the night.

Puppies have small bladders – They may need to go out once or twice during the night to relieve themselves. Don’t worry, though this usually improves as they grow older.

Separation anxiety is common – Being away from their mom and siblings for the first time can be stressful for a puppy. This can lead to whining, barking, or restlessness at night.

How Much Sleep Do Puppies Need?

Puppies sleep a lot up to 18–20 hours a day when they’re very young! They typically nap several times throughout the day and sleep in chunks during the night. As they get older, their sleep becomes more consolidated, and you can start establishing a bedtime routine.

Tips for Helping Your Puppy Sleep Through the Night

• Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment

Make sure your puppy’s sleeping area is cozy, quiet, and free from distractions. A crate can help your puppy feel secure like they have their little den. You can also place a soft blanket or a comforting toy in there to make them feel at ease.

• Establish a Bedtime Routine

Consistency is key. Try to establish a calming bedtime routine for your puppy. This could include a final potty break, some gentle play, or cuddles. The routine will signal to your puppy that it’s time to wind down and sleep.

• Limit Food and Water Before Bedtime

To avoid midnight potty trips, limit your puppy’s access to food and water an hour or two before bedtime. Make sure they’ve had a chance to go potty right before you put them to bed.

• Provide a Nighttime Potty Break

For very young puppies, expect to take them out for at least one potty break during the night. As they grow, you’ll notice they can hold their bladder for longer periods, and the nighttime breaks can gradually be reduced.

• Keep Nighttime Interactions Calm

If your puppy wakes up at night, keep your interactions calm and quiet. Don’t play or make a big fuss. Take them out for a quick potty break, then gently put them back to bed. This way, they’ll learn that nighttime is for sleeping, not playing.

When Do Puppies Start Sleeping Through the Night?

Typically, by the time a puppy is around 4 to 6 months old, they can start sleeping through the night without needing to go out for a potty break. Of course, this can vary depending on the breed, individual puppy, and how consistent you are with training and routines.

Signs Your Puppy Is Settling Into a Good Sleep Pattern

You’ll know your puppy is starting to sleep better through the night when…

• They sleep for longer stretches without waking up.
• They whine less and settle down quickly after nighttime potty breaks.
• Their daily napping schedule becomes more predictable.

Every puppy is different, so be patient and consistent, and they’ll get there.

While puppies may not sleep through the night right away, there are ways to help them adjust and get closer to that goal. Creating a calm sleep environment, setting a routine, and being patient during nighttime potty breaks can all make a big difference. Those sleepless nights are temporary, and soon enough, your puppy will be sleeping like a champ!