🐾 5 Ways to Calm Your Dog Before Bedtime
Why a Dog Bedtime Routine Helps with Better Sleep
Some dogs snore peacefully within minutes of curling up in their bed. Others? Not so much. If pacing, whining, or wide-eyed stares at 2 a.m. sound familiar, it might be time to rethink your dog’s bedtime routine. Just like us, dogs benefit from a calming, consistent wind-down — and a few simple changes can make all the difference.
If your pup's sleep routine is more chaos than calm, here are 5 sneaky reasons your dog might be staying up — and what to do about it. According to the American Kennel Club, most adult dogs need 12–14 hours of sleep a day — but anxiety, noise, and inconsistent routines can disrupt their ability to settle down.
😳 1. Too Much Excitement Before Bed
A game of fetch at 9 p.m.? Yep, guilty. While play is great, revving your dog up right before bedtime can trigger restlessness. VCA Animal Hospitals explains that overstimulation before rest can prevent dogs from transitioning into sleep, especially if they lack a predictable cooldown routine.
Try this instead: Swap high-energy games for slow cuddles, soft music, or a short sniff-walk under the stars.
🍗 2. Late Night Snacking
Just like us, dogs can feel bloated or uncomfortable trying to sleep with a full belly. If they’re gulping down dinner too late, it might disrupt their rest.
Tip: Feed dinner a few hours before bedtime. Save treats for earlier in the evening.
🔊 3. Noise in the House
TVs, phones, and even loud heaters can keep some pups on high alert. Dogs hear frequencies we don’t — and it could be enough to spike their anxiety. According to PetMD, calming music with slower tempos can help reduce noise sensitivity and ease nighttime restlessness.
Zen solution: Turn off screens, dim the lights, and play soothing sleep sounds just for dogs. It works like white noise for humans.
😕 4. Inconsistent Sleep Spots
One night on the couch. One night on your bed. Then suddenly… the crate. If your pup doesn’t have a familiar place to sleep, it’s hard to relax. Dogs sleep best when their environment feels safe and predictable. AKC recommends crate or bed consistency to promote a sense of security and relaxation before bedtime.
Try: Creating a cozy sleep nook with a familiar blanket, toy, or even a calming wrap. Bonus if it smells like you.
😬 5. You’re Not Calm (and They Know It)
Dogs are emotional mirrors. If you’re wound up or stressed before bed, your pup may feel it too. Dogs are incredibly attuned to our energy. The AKC also notes that your emotions — especially anxiety or stress — can directly impact how your dog behaves and sleeps.
Best fix: Build a simple nighttime ritual together. Wind down with soft music or some light stretching or snuggling.
💤 Final Woofs
A few small changes can lead to big snoozes. Whether it's sound, scent, or routine, helping your dog sleep better starts with creating a calm environment — one peaceful pawstep at a time.
🛋️ Here’s to slower evenings, softer music, and pups who sleep like champs.