Sleep is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Without proper rest, dogs can experience behavioral issues, weakened immunity, increased stress, and a decline in overall health. Just like people, dogs benefit from a consistent, calm, and supportive evening routine that signals to their body and mind: “It’s time to wind down.”
Whether you have a high-energy pup that struggles to settle or an older dog that wakes up frequently at night, improving your dog’s nighttime routine can lead to better sleep—for both of you.
This article will help you understand what your dog needs in the evening hours and how to create a predictable, calming nightly routine that supports rest, recovery, and emotional balance.
Why a Nighttime Routine Matters
Dogs thrive on structure. They learn behaviors and build expectations based on repeated patterns. A structured nighttime routine:
- Helps regulate their internal clock
- Reduces hyperactivity or anxiety before bedtime
- Makes it easier for them to sleep through the night
- Reinforces trust and comfort in their environment
Without this structure, dogs may struggle to rest and could become restless, vocal, or even destructive during the night.
Understand Your Dog’s Sleep Needs
Before adjusting your dog’s evening routine, it’s helpful to know what is normal in terms of sleep.
On Average:
- Puppies need 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day
- Adult dogs need 12 to 14 hours
- Senior dogs may sleep even more, but in shorter cycles
Sleep needs also vary depending on breed, health, activity level, and daily stimulation. If your dog doesn’t seem rested—even after long sleep periods—they may not be getting quality sleep.
Step 1: Begin the Wind-Down Early
The ideal nighttime routine doesn’t start 10 minutes before bed. It begins 1–2 hours before your dog is expected to sleep.
Activities to Reduce Before Bed:
- No rough play or high-intensity exercise in the late evening
- Avoid noisy environments or loud guests
- Limit stimulation from screens or excessive lighting
- Begin speaking more softly and moving more slowly
This shift in energy tells your dog it’s time to move from active to calm. Dogs are very sensitive to human energy, so your behavior matters.
Step 2: Create a Predictable Evening Schedule
Dogs feel secure when they know what to expect. Build a simple evening structure that repeats daily.
Sample Evening Routine:
- 7:00 PM – Light walk or gentle play session
- 7:30 PM – Evening feeding (if your schedule allows)
- 8:00 PM – Calm indoor time (brushing, cuddles, soft music)
- 8:30 PM – Final potty break
- 8:45 PM – Prepare sleeping space (dim lights, clean bed)
- 9:00 PM – Settle in for sleep (no more stimulation)
Adjust the schedule according to your own timing, but the key is to follow the same pattern each evening. Over time, your dog’s body and mind will begin preparing for rest as the routine unfolds.
Step 3: Limit Late-Night Eating and Drinking
Dogs that eat or drink heavily right before bed may need to go outside during the night. If your dog frequently wakes you up needing to relieve themselves, consider adjusting the feeding and water schedule.
Tips:
- Offer the last meal 2 to 3 hours before bedtime
- Provide water earlier in the evening, then reduce access 1 hour before sleep (unless your dog needs it for health reasons)
- Take them out for a final bathroom break right before settling in
This helps reduce overnight interruptions and allows your dog to sleep longer stretches.
Step 4: Prepare the Sleeping Environment
Just like humans benefit from a cozy bedroom, dogs need a comfortable and secure sleeping space.
Key Elements:
- Clean, dry bedding that suits your dog’s preferences (soft vs. firm)
- A quiet location, away from foot traffic or bright lights
- Stable temperature—avoid drafts or overheating
- Access to a favorite blanket or toy (for emotional comfort)
- No distractions from screens or other animals during the night
Some dogs prefer a crate or enclosed space to feel secure. Others do better on a dog bed in a low-light corner. Observe your dog’s preferences and adjust accordingly.
Step 5: Use Calming Tools if Needed
If your dog struggles to settle, you can include natural calming techniques into their evening routine.
Options include:
- Soothing background noise, like white noise or soft classical music
- Aromatherapy with dog-safe scents (like lavender—never use human oils without guidance)
- Brushing or light massage to relax muscles and reduce anxiety
- Calming chews or treats (consult your vet before using)
Avoid relying on these tools every night—use them as temporary aids while building the routine.
Step 6: Avoid Reinforcing Nighttime Disruptions
If your dog whines, barks, or wakes you up repeatedly at night:
- First, rule out medical causes with your vet
- Then, check their environment and routine
- Avoid giving attention (like play or treats) in the middle of the night unless absolutely necessary
Accidentally reinforcing these behaviors teaches your dog that nighttime is an opportunity for attention.
Instead, focus on addressing the root cause (e.g., lack of exercise, stress, hunger) during the day, not after bedtime.
Step 7: Tailor the Routine to Age and Health
Your dog’s routine should reflect their stage of life and any health concerns.
Puppies:
- Need more frequent potty breaks
- May sleep erratically for the first few months
- Benefit from very structured, low-stimulation evenings
Adults:
- Should sleep consistently through the night
- Need stimulation during the day to rest well at night
Seniors:
- May wake more often or feel discomfort
- Benefit from orthopedic beds and easier potty access
- Should avoid late meals if they experience digestive issues
Pay attention to changes in sleep patterns. If your adult dog starts waking at night without reason, consult your vet.
Step 8: Be Consistent—Even on Weekends
Dogs don’t understand the difference between weekday and weekend. Maintaining a consistent schedule seven days a week helps reinforce good sleep habits.
Try to:
- Keep feeding, walking, and sleeping times similar each day
- Avoid major shifts in nighttime energy (like parties or loud TV)
- Provide comfort and routine even when traveling or staying elsewhere
This consistency builds trust and security, helping your dog fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Final Thoughts
Helping your dog sleep better at night doesn’t require expensive tools or complicated systems. It’s about building a simple, thoughtful routine that reflects their natural rhythms and meets their emotional and physical needs.
By winding down early, limiting stimulation, providing a cozy environment, and being consistent, you offer your dog the best chance at restful, restorative sleep. And when your dog sleeps better—you do, too.