How to Teach a Dog to Calm Down at Night

If you are stressed with your pet’s hyperactivity at night and wondering how to teach a dog to calm down at night, we have the answer for you.

If bedtime feels chaotic, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Teaching your dog to calm down at night isn’t just about ensuring their peace; it’s about preserving your own too. Whether you’re working with a high-energy puppy or a more mature dog with nighttime anxiety, this guide will show you how to help them settle, step by step. Peaceful nights are possible, and it all starts with understanding what your dog needs.

Why Is Your Dog Restless at Night?

A restless dog isn’t trying to frustrate you—they’re telling you something. Understanding their behavior is key to addressing the problem. Here are some common reasons dogs stay active at night:

• Pent-up Energy: Dogs that don’t get enough physical or mental stimulation during the day often struggle to relax at night.

• Anxiety: Fear of being alone, separation anxiety, or even unfamiliar nighttime sounds can keep them up.

• Hunger or Discomfort: If your dog hasn’t eaten enough, or if their sleeping area is uncomfortable, they might have trouble settling. Other times, it’s a matter of boredom. Dogs are naturally curious creatures. If the house goes quiet and there’s no activity, they might feel restless and look for ways to engage you. Understanding these root causes helps you address your dog’s specific needs, setting them up for calmer nights.

Step 1: Create a Consistent Routine

Dogs thrive on predictability. A structured daily schedule helps them feel secure and understand when it’s time to rest. Start with their meals. Feed your dog dinner at least two hours before bedtime. Follow this with a bathroom break and a quiet evening activity like a short walk or cuddle time. The goal is to build associations. If your dog knows that dinner, a walk, and a little quiet time lead to sleep, they’ll start to adjust their behavior naturally.

The Importance of Morning Activity

What happens during the day impacts the night. If your dog doesn’t get enough physical activity early on, they’ll store that energy, which might explode after sunset. Start their day with an invigorating walk or play session. A tired dog is a dog that sleeps soundly. Physical exertion during the day leads to more restful nights. While you’re getting your own routine started, give your dog plenty of exercise during the day to burn off that excess energy.

Step 2: Exercise, Exercise, Exercise

Physical activity isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. A tired dog is more likely to sleep soundly. Long walks, fetch, and tug-of-war are excellent options to wear them out. If your dog has a lot of energy, consider agility training or a doggy daycare for extra stimulation. But don’t forget about their brain. Mental exercise is just as important. Try puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, or obedience training to engage their mind.

In the evening, aim for moderate activity. A brisk walk or some light play can help release extra energy without overstimulating them before bed. And don’t underestimate the importance of playtime. A dog who has engaged in fun, purposeful activities during the day is much more likely to settle down without much fuss. However, be careful not to over-exercise your dog late in the evening—this could make it harder for them to wind down and get comfortable.

Step 3: Set Up a Comfortable Sleeping Space

Your dog’s sleeping environment can make or break their nighttime behavior. Choose a bed that fits their size and preferences. Some dogs love a plush cushion, while others prefer a firm surface. Place the bed in a quiet, dark corner of the house where they won’t be disturbed. Dogs are creatures of comfort, and a cozy space signals relaxation. Make sure their bed is far from distractions, such as a television or loud noises.

The less your dog’s sleep environment mimics daytime activity, the better they’ll sleep. If your dog suffers from anxiety, consider adding calming aids to their space: a pheromone diffuser to create a soothing atmosphere, a weighted blanket designed for pets to help them feel secure.

Should You Allow Your Dog in Your Room?

Some dogs sleep better when they’re close to their humans. If you’re comfortable with it, allow them to sleep in a bed near yours. However, if you don’t want them on your bed, be clear about boundaries from the start. Keep in mind that proximity can be comforting to dogs with separation anxiety. But if you prefer them to sleep in their own designated spot, it’s essential to set those boundaries early and be consistent.

Step 4: Use Training to Promote Calm

Calm behavior isn’t always instinctual—it can be taught.

Commands like “settle” or “stay” are incredibly helpful for teaching your dog to relax. Practice these commands during the day in low-stress situations. Reward them with treats and praise when they comply. Once they’ve mastered the commands, you can start using them at night.

Consistency is critical. The more you train your dog during the day, the better they’ll understand the calm behavior you expect at night. If your dog is particularly restless, try a crate or playpen. These tools provide a safe, contained space where they can wind down. A crate can be especially useful for dogs who seek comfort in their own space and prefer having a “den” for sleeping.

Step 5: Address Anxiety

For dogs with nighttime anxiety, patience is crucial. Anxious dogs often need extra reassurance, especially if they’re adjusting to a new home or routine. Here are some tips to ease anxiety:

• Spend extra time with your dog before bed.
• Cuddles or gentle brushing can help them relax.
• Use calming aids like pheromone sprays, anxiety wraps, or supplements recommended by your vet.
• Sometimes anxiety stems from a lack of confidence. Enroll your dog in basic training classes to build their self-assurance during the day, which can translate to calmer behavior at night.
• Anxious dogs might benefit from a consistent routine as well. If you’ve recently changed your schedule, your dog might feel unsettled. Keep things predictable and offer comfort when needed.

Step 6: Adjust Their Diet

Diet plays a surprisingly large role in your dog’s sleep habits. Feed your dog high-quality food with the right balance of protein and carbs. Avoid feeding them heavy meals right before bedtime—this can cause discomfort and make it harder for them to settle. For an extra calming boost, look for bedtime treats with natural relaxants like chamomile or valerian root. These ingredients help to calm your dog without sedating them too heavily.

Managing Nighttime Barking

Does your dog bark endlessly at night? This behavior can stem from anxiety, boredom, or even a desire to protect their territory.

Here’s how to address nighttime barking:

• Rule out triggers: Check for external noises or distractions that might be bothering them.
• Ignore attention-seeking barks: If they’re barking to get you out of bed, resist the urge to engage.
• Reinforce quiet behavior: Reward them when they’re calm and quiet. Training your dog to ignore certain stimuli during the day can also reduce barking at night.

Remember, barking is often a way for dogs to communicate their discomfort. Training them to remain quiet at night is a gradual process that takes consistency.

Consistency Is Everything

No matter which strategies you use, consistency is key. Follow the routine withount any change every night, even on weekends. Training a dog to calm down at night isn’t an overnight fix. It takes time, patience, and commitment. But with a steady approach, you’ll soon have a dog that looks forward to bedtime as much as you do. And when that happens, you can finally enjoy peaceful, uninterrupted sleep.

For more information on calming techniques for anxious dogs, check out this comprehensive guide from the American Kennel Club on dog anxiety.