How to Get Poodles to Sleep

Poodles are loyal, intelligent, highly trainable dogs that will provide constant companionship. Unfortunately, many poodles are also high-energy dogs that will run, play and jump far into the evening when the rest of the family is ready for bed. There are several tips and tricks, from long walks to altered feeding schedules, that will help ensure your poodle is fast asleep at the appropriate time.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog toys
  • Pet crate
  • Dog blanket
  • Dog bed
  • Box fan
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide your poodle with sources of stimulation throughout the day. This includes toys and games of fetch in the backyard. Keeping your poodle active and engaged all day will ensure that it does not become bored, which will lead to naps throughout the day.

    • 2

      Feed your poodle 2 to 3 hours before bed. This will ensure your poodle's belly is full when it is ready for bed.

    • 3

      Take your poodle for a long walk approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before bedtime. Keep the poodle on the leash and avoid any activities that will rile it up, including a trip to the local park or dog run. Pay attention that the poodle relieves itself during the walk, which will ensure that it is not woken by the urge to void.

    • 4

      Provide your poodle with a safe, warm, comfortable place to sleep. This includes a pet crate and blanket in the living room or a dog bed in one of the bedrooms. Do not isolate your poodle from the family, as this will lead to anxiety and sleepless nights.

    • 5

      Turn on a box fan or provide your pet with any other type of soothing, white noise. Not only will the noise cover up any loud sounds outdoors, including barking dogs and car alarms, it will also become a sound the dog will associate with calm.

    • 6

      Teach your poodle the "sleep" command. Set a treat onto the dog's bed, the pet crate or any other area in the home that is designated for sleep. Bring the poodle over to the area and allow it to find the treat. Gently place the dogs's rear-end onto the blanket or bed and say the word "sleep." Repeat this command several times throughout the day. Eventually, the poodle will understand that the word "sleep" means it is time to head to that spot.