🐾 The Perfect Pup Wind-Down Routine
5 Calming Activities Before Bed
Just like us, dogs thrive on routine — especially before bedtime. If your pup is pacing, whining, or taking forever to settle at night, a peaceful pre-bed ritual might be just what they need. According to the American Kennel Club, sleep is essential for dogs' physical and mental health, and predictable routines help signal that it's time to wind down.
1. Gentle Sniff Walks (Even Indoors!)
A short, slow-paced walk with plenty of sniffing opportunities helps your dog mentally decompress. Indoors? Use a snuffle mat or hide treats around the room. The AKC notes that nose work and sniffing are incredibly enriching for dogs — they activate the brain in a way that can actually tire them out more than physical play.
2. Paw Massages & Calming Touch
Soft strokes on your dog’s ears, paws, or shoulders can release tension and reduce anxiety. Bonus: It strengthens your bond too. 🐾 VCA Animal Hospitals recommends gentle massage as a calming, bonding activity that may even help with restlessness.
3. Soothing Soundscapes
Try dog-friendly sleep music, white noise, or nature sounds. Many dogs respond well to calming frequencies, especially after an overstimulating day. According to PetMD, music with slower tempos—like classical or ambient sounds—can ease stress and promote sleep. Browse our collection for sleep, anxiety or stress relief.
4. Low-Light Play or Puzzle Time
Enrichment toys like lick mats and slow feeders can keep your dog engaged without overstimulation. PetMD recommends them as excellent tools for mental wind-down, especially when outdoor exercise is limited.
(https://www.shutterstock.com/search/dog-lick-mat)
5. A Cozy, Familiar Sleep Space
Make sure your pup’s sleeping area is quiet, dimly lit, and scent-familiar. Add a favorite blanket, your worn t-shirt, or a few drops of dog-safe lavender nearby. According to AKC’s calming scent guide, lavender (in proper dog-safe form) can help reduce anxiety in dogs.
Wrap-Up:
Every pup is different, but a predictable, comforting routine can work wonders for nighttime restlessness. Try one or two of these each night and adjust based on what your dog responds to best. You’ll both be drifting off in no time. 😴🐶