How to Train Your Puppy to Sleep Through the Night

Help your puppy—and yourself—get a good night's sleep by creating a comforting bedtime routine. Follow these steps for positive reinforcement.

Introducing a new puppy to your home is a joyful time, but it can also come with sleepless nights—both for you and your puppy. Unlike human babies, puppies need careful training to sleep soundly through the night. With the right approach, you can create a calm, consistent bedtime routine using positive reinforcement, helping your puppy relax and settle down for a restful night.

Step 1: Establish a Bedtime

Decide on a consistent bedtime that matches your own evening routine.

Stick to this time daily to help set your puppy's internal clock.

Tips: Puppies thrive on routine, so being consistent with bedtime helps signal that it's time to wind down.

Step 2: Exercise Before Bed

Ensure your puppy gets plenty of physical activity in the hours leading up to bedtime.

Play fetch or go for a long walk to help tire them out.

Why this works: Just like us, puppies often sleep better after burning off excess energy.

Step 3: Create a Comforting Sleep Space

Set up a designated sleeping area that is quiet and cozy.

Use a comfortable dog bed and a familiar blanket with your scent.

Tips: Consider using a crate if that's part of your training plan. Many puppies find crates comforting when properly introduced.

Step 4: Establish a Calming Routine

Develop a soothing pre-sleep routine, like gentle petting or even soft music.

Finish with a calming cue word, like “bedtime.”

Why this works: A routine signals your puppy's body and mind that it's time to unwind.

Step 5: Nighttime Potty Break

Take your puppy out for a final potty break right before bed.

Make it brief—no playtime—to reinforce that it's a quick break.

Tips: Praise your puppy when they go, and gently guide them back to their sleeping area.

Step 6: Use Positive Reinforcement

When your puppy settles quietly, reward them with praise or a special treat.

Over time, they'll associate staying quiet at night with good things.

Why this works: Positive reinforcement strengthens the behavior you want nighttime to bring.

Step 7: Handle Nighttime Waking Calmly

If your puppy wakes during the night, keep interactions calm and brief.

Take them out for a quick potty break if needed, and avoid making it exciting.

Tips: When you return them to bed, use your calming cue word to signal sleep time again.