How to Create a Sleep Routine for your Dog

Are you getting a new pup and want some tips on doggy sleep routines? Or perhaps your dog isn’t sleeping well through the night? Then you’re in the right place!

Here, we offer some top tips on how to create a good sleep routine for your dog.

Have a consistent routine

It’s important to create a consistent routine for your dog so they know when to use their energy and when it’s time to switch off and sleep. Try to feed them, walk them, play with them and have nap periods at the same time each day so they understand when to settle down.

You should also consider when they go to the toilet, when they need alone time and when they need attention. The Dogs Trust put together a useful guide on how a typical day may go with your dog.

Give them a physical workout

Just like humans, what your dog does during the daytime will affect their sleep at night – so make sure they get plenty of physical exercise. Check out the recommended amount of exercise for your dog, as each breed is different – with some needing 30 minutes and others needing several hours.

For example, dogs like collies, German shepherds and retrievers need plenty of vigorous exercise, while bulldogs and chihuahuas have much lower exercise needs. Giving your dog the right amount of exercise will tire them out and make sure they are ready to sleep during the night.

Ensure they are mentally stimulated

Like with physical exercise, your dog needs plenty of mental stimulation throughout the day to tire them out for sleep. There are many easy ways to give your dog a mental workout. Let them do plenty of sniffing during your walk, for example.

You could also make them work for food using puzzle feeders and a kong. Or get them games and toys to play with. Another great way to mentally stimulate your dog is through training, such as teaching them a command. This will get their cogs turning and make sure they’re tired at the end of the day.   

Create a comfortable sleeping space

For your dog to have a great night’s sleep, you need to create a cosy, comfortable sleeping environment. While it may be tempting to let your dog lay in bed with you, this isn’t beneficial for either of you when it comes to getting quality z’s.

Instead, get them their own bed that is the right size for their breed. There are many luxury dog beds that are designed to withstand the test of time and offer features like washable covers so they stay fresh.

Hopefully, these tips will help your dog get the sleep they need to live a happy and waggy-tailed life!