Sleepless nights are a common part of bringing home a new puppy. Just like a newborn baby, puppies need time to adjust to a new environment and develop a healthy sleep routine. While it may take a few days—or even weeks—you can absolutely help your puppy learn to sleep through the night with the right schedule and environment.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how much sleep your puppy needs, what a typical sleep schedule looks like, and what to do when they cry or wake up at night.
How Much Sleep Do Puppies Need?
Puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours a day, especially in the first few months. Their brains and bodies are developing rapidly, and sleep plays a critical role in physical growth, memory, and emotional regulation.
But unlike adult dogs, puppies sleep in short bursts and need guidance to form a consistent nighttime routine.
Why Puppies Struggle to Sleep Through the Night
There are several reasons your new puppy might wake up during the night:
- Small bladder: Puppies need to relieve themselves more frequently
- Loneliness: Separation from their mother and litter can cause anxiety
- Overstimulation: Too much excitement before bed makes it harder to settle
- Hunger or thirst: Missed meals or dehydration can disrupt rest
- Unfamiliar surroundings: New sights, sounds, and smells may cause alertness
Understanding these factors helps you prevent and manage nighttime disruptions.
Sample New Puppy Sleep Schedule
Here’s a general guideline for a puppy aged 8–12 weeks:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Wake up, potty, short walk/play |
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast |
| 9:00 AM | Nap (1–2 hours) |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch, potty, play |
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1:00 PM | Nap (1–2 hours) |
| 4:00 PM | Potty, play, light training |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner |
| 7:00 PM | Short nap (optional) |
| 8:00–9:00 PM | Calm time, potty, bedtime routine |
| 9:30–10:30 PM | Final potty break, sleep |
| 2:00–4:00 AM | Brief potty break (if needed) |
As your puppy grows, they’ll sleep longer stretches and eliminate overnight potty trips.
Tips to Help Your Puppy Sleep Through the Night
1. Create a Calm Bedtime Routine
Wind down with quiet activities, such as light petting or chewing a toy. Avoid rough play or intense training right before bed.
2. Use a Crate or Safe Sleeping Space
A crate can help your puppy feel secure. Place it in your bedroom or a quiet area, and make it cozy with a soft blanket and familiar scent.
3. Limit Water Before Bedtime
Offer water during the day, but limit it 1–2 hours before bedtime to reduce nighttime potty breaks.
4. Make the Last Potty Trip Count
Take your puppy out right before bed, and reward them when they go. This reinforces the routine and encourages a longer stretch of sleep.
5. Use White Noise or Soothing Sounds
Gentle background noise can block out distracting sounds and help anxious puppies relax.
What to Do If Your Puppy Cries at Night
- Don’t ignore them entirely—especially during the first week
- Stay calm and quiet, and take them out for a quick, low-stimulation potty break
- Avoid turning it into playtime
- Return them to the crate calmly and use a cue like “bedtime”
- If the crying persists without a clear need, reassure gently but avoid reinforcing the behavior
When Will My Puppy Sleep Through the Night?
Most puppies begin sleeping through the night (6–8 hours) by 12 to 16 weeks, depending on breed, bladder size, and training consistency. With patience, you’ll gradually reduce overnight wakeups and create a peaceful sleep routine.
Conclusion
Helping a new puppy sleep through the night takes structure, reassurance, and a bit of adjustment—for both of you. By following a consistent sleep schedule and addressing your puppy’s basic needs, you’ll lay the foundation for restful nights and happier days ahead.
Need help building the perfect daily routine for your puppy? Visit our Puppy Schedule Guide for detailed tips and downloadable plans.