On the first night, and for about three weeks, have the puppy sleep in a dog crate beside the bed. Line the base with blankets so it is cosy, and drape another blanket over the top to help it feel more secure. Give the puppy the stuffed toy with its littermates’ scent to snuggle up to.
The excitement of bringing home a new puppy is unparalleled, but amidst the joy, there comes a crucial decision: where should your furry friend sleep that first night? It’s a question that many new pet parents grapple with, and understandably so. The transition from the breeder or shelter to your home can be overwhelming for a young pup, and creating a safe, comfortable sleeping environment is essential for their well-being and peace of mind.
Puppy’s First Week
A Puppy’s first week at home is an exciting time for the family, but it can be a very scary experience for the dog. It is hard to be taken away from its mother and siblings and put into a new environment with people it has never met before. It is no wonder that puppies are nervous on their first night, and so are their families.
When the pup has settled into its new home, and a routine has been developed, the fun can begin, but getting through the first few days can be a harrowing experience for everyone. Planning and preparation will get everyone off to a good start and make this time of transition as easy as possible.
Visit the puppy a few times before picking it up and ask the breeders many questions, including when and what to feed it and for a copy of the pup’s vaccinations and paperwork. But, organise to pick up the puppy before a long weekend, at the beginning of a holiday, or when someone will be home with it all the time for as many days as possible.
How long do puppies sleep?
When your puppy first comes home, they usually sleep over 20 hours a day, so they spend much more time snoozing than they do awake!
Sleep is incredibly important for your puppy as it aids healthy growth and contributes to developing their central nervous system, brain, immune system and muscles. It gives them a chance to process all the things they have learned while they are awake.
An overtired puppy is like an overtired human baby – fractious, restless and difficult.
During the day, your puppy will suddenly crash wherever they are! Ensure they are undisturbed until they wake up again – full of energy and ready for another adventure.
However, some puppies won’t want to sleep if there is activity. Make sure you build nap times into their daily routine, and make sure this happens so they get the sleep they need.
Setting the Stage for a Restful Night
The Puppy’s Perspective
Imagine being plucked from everything familiar—your siblings, your mother, the scents and sounds that have been your world since birth—and suddenly finding yourself in a completely new environment. That’s precisely what your puppy experiences on their first night at your home. It’s a big change, and they need time to adjust.
Establishing a Routine
Creating a routine early on is key. Dogs are creatures of habit, and establishing a predictable schedule helps them settle in more easily. This includes meal times, play sessions, potty breaks, and, of course, bedtime.
Options for the First Night
Sleeping in Your Bedroom
Many experts and pet owners recommend allowing your puppy to sleep in your bedroom for the first few nights. This closeness can provide a sense of security for your pup. You can set up a cosy space for them—a crate, a soft bed, or a blanket-lined area close to your bed.
Using a Crate
A crate can be an excellent sleeping option for your new puppy. It simulates a den-like environment, providing a sense of security and a designated space that’s theirs. Ensure the crate is large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Make it inviting with soft bedding and a toy or two for comfort.
Creating a Puppy-Proof Area
If you opt not to use a crate, you should designate a puppy-proofed area in your bedroom or another part of the house. Use baby gates or barriers to prevent access to potentially hazardous areas while giving them space to explore.
Gradual Transition to Another Location
If you prefer your puppy not to sleep in your bedroom long-term, you can gradually transition them to their desired sleeping area over time. Start by placing their bed or crate in your room and gradually moving it farther away each night until it’s in your desired location.
Tips for a Smooth First Night
Establishing Comfort
- Familiar Scents: Introduce items that carry scents from their previous environment, like a blanket or toy, to provide a sense of familiarity.
- Soft Bedding: Ensure their sleeping area is comfortable and cosy. Soft blankets or bedding can help soothe them.
Creating a Calm Atmosphere
- Background Noise: Consider using white noise or soft music to help mask unfamiliar sounds that might startle your puppy.
- Dim Lighting: Opt for dim lighting to create a calm ambience. Night lights can be comforting for some puppies.
Encouraging Good Behavior
- Potty Breaks: Take your puppy out for a bathroom break right before bedtime to reduce the chances of accidents during the night.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage your puppy to associate their sleeping area with positive experiences, like treats and praise.
Patience and Reassurance
- Be Patient: Understand that your puppy might whine or cry initially. This is normal as they adjust to their new surroundings.
- Reassurance: Offer verbal reassurance or gentle strokes if your puppy seems anxious. Avoid picking them up excessively, as it might reinforce their distress.
Final Thoughts
The first night with your new puppy is a memorable experience. It’s a time filled with anticipation, love, and uncertainty. Remember, each puppy is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Pay attention to your puppy’s cues and adjust accordingly. Ultimately, what matters most is creating a safe and nurturing environment that helps your furry friends feel secure and loved as they begin this exciting journey with you.
Calculation
Getting the right steps right the first time can take time, patience, energy and a few sleepless nights. Before you know it, however, your puppy will be sleeping comfortably through the night – and so will you! If you want to learn more ways to prepare for your new puppy, look at our article on a new puppy.
FAQ
Where Should I Put My Puppy to Sleep the First Night?
A puppy should ideally sleep in a warm, quiet, and comfortable area on their first night. Many people choose to have the puppy sleep in a crate or a small enclosed area to provide security.
Should my Puppy Sleep in my Room the First Night?
Keep bedtime as calm as possible for your pup. Give them gentle praise (such as a few strokes) when they settle where you want them to. Sleep in the same room for the first few nights. For the first few nights, your puppy will need time to adjust to being without their mum.
Where Should Newborn Puppies Sleep at Night?
The crate should be a comfortable and warm place. It should be placed in your bedroom, where you sleep for at least the first few weeks. Remember that your puppy is in a new home, away from his mom and siblings, and those first few nights will be scary!
What Time Should Puppies Go to Bed?
A 9-week-old puppy should ideally go to bed around 8-10 pm. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine is important to help the puppy adjust to a regular sleep schedule. This routine can include activities such as a short walk, playtime, and a bathroom break before settling down for the night.