So you finally purchased a new puppy and it's time to bring him home, but you don't have the slightest idea about how to make sure your puppy is sleeping sufficiently. Without your help, your puppy may whine through the night, and toss and turn which, will cause him to lose a significant amount of sleep.
Puppies require quite a bit more sleep than older dogs, mainly because an ample amount of sleep is crucial to puppies normal growth cycle and development. In fact, the average puppy sleeps (or should sleep) between 15-20 hours a day. Fortunately, there are several things you can do (and shouldn't do) to make sure you puppy is sleeping sufficiently. Continue reading to learn more.
Crating Your Puppy Helps Him Sleep Safely
The decision on whether or not to crate your puppy is up to you, but to help make the decision easier, here's something to chew on. Puppies can get into mischief or even hurt themselves if left unattended for extended periods of time. Crating your puppy at night can help protect the puppy from himself. If you decide not to crate your puppy and instead you allow him to sleep in bed with you, you'll have to deal with that habit (which will be a difficult thing to do). And, though allowing this will quicken the progression of the bond between puppy and owner, it can cause anxiety, behavior problems and even depression when the bond is severed when you have to leave for an extended period of time.
To make the puppy crate as comfortable and safe as it can be, place a sheet over it, but leave the sides uncovered so the puppy can breathe. This will cause puppy to fall asleep faster and he will sleep more soundly.
Using an Exercise Pen
If you still don't feel comfortable crating your pet, an exercise pen is the next best thing. It is important to make sure the pen is warm and free from drafts. You should also make sure that your puppy doesn't hide objects in the pen that he could potentially swallow or choke on. A great way to help your dog sleep soundly in his pen is to place reminders of his mother and siblings in the pen. In most cases, the puppy's old blanket or a soft toy that the puppy shared with his siblings will do the trick.
Puppy Diet, Exercise and Sleeping
Puppies are usually extremely active when they are awake and they typically eat twice as much as older dogs. If your dog is eating and active during the day, chances are he will sleep soundly at night. If he does not sleep well after several weeks in the home, he may not be getting enough food and exercise during the day. To be on the safe side, visit your vet to determine any areas that need improvement.