How to Help a Dog with Nighttime Behavior Problems

Dogs and puppies occasionally have trouble getting to sleep at night. New dog owners are often beset by whining and crying for the first several weeks. However, a dog that a person has owned for a while may also show restlessness. If the dog has been a constant companion for some time, the issue may be more than just nighttime restlessness. It may be a health problem and should be checked out by a veterinarian. Even if this is a new dog or puppy, having a veterinarian examine the pet is a good idea to make certain nothing else is going on other than a behavioral issue.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog
  • Dog bed or crate
  • Leash
  • Collar
  • Toys
  • Long leash (10 feet long), often called a tracking lead
  • Food ball stuffed with treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Move your dog's bed or crate to your bedroom next to the bed. Dogs are pack animals and require being with their pack--you--when they sleep. Leaving a dog alone at night in the basement or outside is pretty scary and lonely for the dog. Sleeping near you gives the dog a feeling of security.

    • 2

      Exercise and play with your dog before bedtime. Take your dog for a walk and play fetch for a while with a toy until your dog is tired. A tired dog is more likely to sleep at night.

    • 3

      Bring your dog outside one last time to relieve himself before bedtime.

    • 4

      When it is time to go to bed, put your dog in the crate or have him lie down in his bed. Give him a food ball or his favorite toy.

    • 5

      If your dog doesn't lie still in a bed, you can attach a long leash to the dog's collar and tie the other end of the leash to your bedpost. When your dog tries to get up, tell your dog to lie down and put your pet back in his bed. Do this as many times as necessary.

    • 6

      If your dog is whining in his crate, gently tap on the crate and tell your dog, "Quiet."

    • 7

      If your dog fusses in the middle of the night, he may have to relieve himself. Take your dog outside to relieve himself, allow a short drink of water and then give him a fresh food ball or toy and go to bed.