Whether your dog is a puppy, a senior, or any age in between, it is important to make sure he or she is receiving adequate sleep to promote good health and well being. Here are some tips for helping your dog get restorative sleep.
Make Sure They are Comfortable
Many dog owners prefer to have their canine companions sleep with them, but if you prefer the opposite, your dog does not have to simply sleep on the ground. Making a space for your dog to retire for the night will give them a safe zone that they will feel familiar with. Purchase a dog bed that is suitable for their size, or if you like, you can even easily make one that is customized for your pet. One of the advantages of having a dog bed is that if your dog has an accident or vomits on the bed, it is easy to throw it in the washer without worrying about complicated dry cleaning instructions with your own bedding. You can also take the bed with you so your dog will have something with their scent in unfamiliar territory.
Have Them Use the Bathroom Before Bed
One of the biggest interruptions of a pet’s sleep is the need to relieve themselves. With dogs, it is easy to train them to want to use the bathroom outside before heading to bed at night. This is especially important because your dog will be able to sleep peacefully without a full bladder. Additionally, Pet Urine is difficult to get out of sheets or expensive bedding if your dog sleeps with you. To help train your dog, use tricks such as rewarding them with a treat whenever they go to the bathroom before going to sleep, along with verbal praise and happiness that will encourage them they are doing the right thing for the comfort of both of you.
Eliminate Distractions
When your dog sees or hears something at night that keeps them up, it can be difficult to get them to stop barking and settle down to bed. If your neighborhood is loud and there are other dogs around, you can use treats and other tactics to train your dog not to bark or want to go outside. For instance, reinforce that barking is not allowed by not giving your dog attention while they are barking. Likewise, when they are quiet, reward them with a treat or positive reinforcement, such as playing with a toy or giving them a good pet or scratch. Also, you should do everything in your power to get rid of distractions for your dog, but in the case of neighbors or outdoor problems, you should do your best to train your dog not to pay attention.
Treat Them Before Bed
Help your dog sleep easier by developing a nighttime ritual that they will look forward to. One example would be to spend a few minutes every day brushing your dog’s coat, which can create a bond between pet and owner, as well as help your dog maintain healthy fur. It can also be an advantage because it lessens the amount of hair that your dog sheds, especially during the warmer parts of the year. If your dog sleeps in an open crate or their own dog bed, make sure to spend some time with them before you head to bed yourself, and signal to them that they are important and loved.
Give Them a Designated Sleeping Area
Dogs thrive on routine. Set up your dog’s area for relaxation and sleep in a spot around the house that is more quiet and secluded, and that both you and your dog feel comfortable with. Make it clear that this is your dog’s area by having them lay in it and roll around to cover it with their scent. Additionally, place toys and other items of comfort for your dog in the area to further let them know that it is a safe space for them to go to relax. During the daytime hours, if you notice your dog looks like they need a nap, take them to their sleeping area to reinforce the sleeping spot.
Keeping your dog asleep through the night does not have to be difficult with these tricks.
This blog was submitted by Kevin Gardner. If you would like to contribute to our blog please email cynthia@newyorkdognanny.com
