You should aim to put a puppy to bed at a consistent time every night, typically between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, depending on your schedule and their routine. The key is to establish a bedtime that aligns with your puppy’s natural rhythm and gives them sufficient sleep (puppies need around 18–20 hours of sleep a day in their early months).
Here’s how to determine the best bedtime for your puppy…
Factors to Consider for Setting a Puppy’s Bedtime
- Consistency
Puppies thrive on routine. Going to bed at the same time every night helps them feel secure and makes housetraining easier. - Age and Development
- 8–12 Weeks Old – Puppies have small bladders and will likely need at least one potty break during the night. Setting an early bedtime can ensure you’re able to accommodate this.
- Older Puppies – By 4–6 months, most puppies can sleep through the night without interruptions, and you may be able to extend bedtime slightly.
- Your Schedule
Choose a bedtime that allows you to wake up early enough for a morning potty break. Puppies need to go out first thing in the morning (around 6:00 AM is common for young puppies). - Pre-Bedtime Activities
- Ensure your puppy has plenty of activity and exercise during the day to help them settle. Avoid high-energy play right before bed to prevent overstimulation.
- Last Potty Break
Take your puppy outside for a final potty break immediately before putting them to bed to minimize the chance of accidents during the night.
How to Create a Smooth Bedtime Routine
- Wind Down the Evening
Start quiet activities like light play, cuddling, or training about an hour before bed to help your puppy relax. - Provide a Final Meal
Feed your puppy 2–3 hours before bedtime to give them time to digest and have one last potty break before bed. - Crate or Sleeping Space
Use a crate, playpen, or designated sleeping area where your puppy feels safe and secure. This helps them associate the space with sleeping. - Comforting Environment
- Provide a cozy bed, a chew-safe toy, or a blanket that smells like their mother or you.
- Consider using a white noise machine or a ticking clock to mimic soothing sounds.
Example Bedtime Routine for an 8-Week-Old Puppy
- 7:00 PM – Dinner time
- 7:30 PM – Calm play or bonding time
- 8:30 PM – Last potty break
- 8:45 PM – Wind-down time in a crate or bed
- 9:00 PM – Lights out
Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep
- Potty Breaks During the Night
For puppies under 12 weeks, plan to wake up once during the night for a quick potty trip. Keep this interaction calm and quiet to encourage them to return to sleep quickly. - Avoid Overfeeding Before Bedtime
Too much food or water close to bedtime can lead to accidents. - Stay Calm During Whining
If your puppy whines, wait a moment before responding. Only let them out if you suspect they genuinely need to potty.
Choose a consistent bedtime for your puppy, ensuring they get plenty of sleep and have time for a last potty break beforehand. A calm bedtime routine will help your puppy settle and sleep through the night, promoting a well-rested and happy puppy the next day.
