Sleep is essential to healthy growth, contributing to the necessary development of a puppy’s central nervous system, brain, immune system, and muscles. All of that sleep also helps him rest up during growth spurts. Follow these simple steps below to master Sleep Training your Puppy.
Leave your Puppy Undisturbed when Sleeping
Keep their area quiet and dim. If safe I recommend covering their cage with a blanket that still allows fresh airflow. Do not put the crate/ pen near the TV or high traffic area.
Do not give in at bedtime to whining, barking, howling. Unless you know with 100% accuracy they have to potty DO NOT let them out. You have to let them learn to sleep alone and that they are safe in their crate/pen.
Show your Puppy where to Sleep
Make the Crate Exciting. Make it accessible all the time so they can learn to love their crate and do not associate it with your leaving or nap/ bedtime. Feed inside the crate with the door open. You can also give them enrichment toys inside the crate to create a positive association with the crate/ pen.
Recognize Overtired Behavior
Redirection mouthing with no success. I typically give my puppies 3 tries if they are not willing to give up on the third time I say “eh-eh” and put them in their crate/pen. Nine out of ten times they end up passing out after 5 minutes or less of whining.
More chewing than normal. Including chewing things they may not normally such as furniture or shoes.
Barking at you for no reason
Follow a Schedule inculding Sleep Training
Establish a bedtime routine. Try to put your dog to bed around the same time each night. Again they thrive on schedules.
Be prepared for interruptions. These can include Sick times, potty accidents, nonstop barking.
If you follow these tips for Sleep Training your Puppy you and your dog will thrive in your new and exciting relationship.
Need Help Establishing your Puppies schedule? Contact me today to set up a session.