Bringing a new puppy home can be an exciting experience, but it also comes with some challenges, especially when it comes to their sleeping habits. Just like human babies, Golden Retriever puppies need plenty of sleep for their growth and development, and it is important to establish a healthy sleep routine for them from an early age. Training your puppy to sleep through the night can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, patience, and consistency, it is achievable. This article provides practical tips on how to train your puppy to sleep through the night.

How To Train Your Puppy To Sleep Through The Night

A rule of thumb is that a puppy will sleep between 15 and 20 hours a day. As they get older that time will diminish to 12 to 14 hours a day. They will nap a lot during the day, but the trick is getting them to sleep through the night. The first few nights may be harder, as they will be excited in their new surroundings.

Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment

Creating a comfortable sleeping environment for your puppy is key to helping them sleep through the night. Provide a cozy and warm bed that is big enough for your puppy to stretch out in comfortably. Place the bed in a quiet and dark room away from any distractions such as loud noises, bright lights, or other pets. You can also use a crate to provide a safe and secure sleeping space for your puppy.

Establish a Bedtime Routine

Establishing a bedtime routine for your puppy is important in helping them develop healthy sleep habits. Begin by taking your puppy out for a bathroom break just before bedtime to avoid any accidents during the night. Then, spend some time playing with your puppy to tire them out and expend any excess energy. This will help them settle down and get ready for sleep.

An important factor to consider is what your puppy is already used to. When I raise a Golden Retriever litter, I keep the schedule consistent from the start. I try and make it similar to what most people’s schedule would already be. Ask your breeder what time they went to bed, and slowly alter the schedule to match your own.

Avoid Feeding or Giving Water Your Puppy Before Bedtime

Feeding or giving too much water to your puppy before bedtime can cause them to wake up during the night for bathroom breaks. Avoid giving your puppy food or water at least two hours before bedtime to allow them time to digest and empty their bladder. This will help them sleep through the night without any interruptions. The first two weeks after you take your puppy home, you might have to take the puppy to the bathroom during the night. This will depend on the puppy’s own bladder.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Using positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage your puppy to develop healthy sleep habits. Praise and reward your puppy when they sleep through the night without waking up. You can use treats, toys, or verbal praise to reinforce good behavior. However, avoid punishing your puppy for waking up during the night as this can cause anxiety and stress.

Gradually Increase the Length of Time Your Puppy Sleeps

When you first bring your puppy home, they may need to go out for bathroom breaks during the night. However, as they get older, they should be able to sleep for longer periods without waking up. Gradually increase the length of time your puppy sleeps through the night by 15 to 30 minutes each night until they can sleep through the entire night.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is key when it comes to training your puppy to sleep through the night. Stick to a routine and avoid making any sudden changes that can disrupt your puppy’s sleep. For example, if you are planning on going out for the night, make sure your puppy is well-exercised and has had plenty of bathroom breaks before bedtime to avoid any interruptions.

Introduce Them To There Sleeping Area Ahead

If you have a specific area for sleep such as a room or crate, introduce them to it before nighttime comes. That way they are not scared of the area when you leave for the night. During the day give them a treat when they go to the area so that they associate that area in a positive light.

Burn Off Their Energy

Just like a child, if they still have energy, then it will be difficult to put them to sleep. Try playing with your pup a while before going to bed. However, not only burn their energy before bed, but during the day. Out of exhaustion, some pups will automatically sleep through the night.

Seek Professional Help

If your puppy is having difficulty sleeping through the night despite your best efforts, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue or behavioral problem. Consult your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for advice and guidance on how to address the issue.

Conclusion

I wouldn’t fret too much. Many Golden Retriever pups will go to their homes and already capable of sleeping through the night. I have had many people contact me saying that their pup slept through the night on day one. While that is not always the case, it is very possible. Especially since the very first day will be filled with lots of attention.

Training your puppy to sleep through the night can also be challenging, but with the right approach, it is achievable. Creating a comfortable sleeping environment, establishing a bedtime routine, avoiding feeding or watering your puppy before bedtime, using positive reinforcement, gradually increasing the length of time your puppy sleeps, and consistency are all important factors in helping your puppy develop healthy sleep habits. Remember, seeking professional help is always an option if your puppy is having difficulty sleeping through the night. With patience, consistency, and love, you can help your puppy get the rest they need for their growth and development.