Quality Sleep

I’ve had many clients mention that their new puppy is perfectly happy sleeping on the couch or on a dog bed next to them. This is totally fine for some sleep but we don’t want to make it a habit.

Quality naps are important for a growing puppy just like it is for a baby. Most baby experts mention having at least one quality nap in the crib or bassinet each day. They need that quality sleep so they can properly move through a sleep cycle. This helps to retain learning and improve cognitive development. 

When puppies sleep close to you, they usually get up if you move or make a sound so they aren’t quite getting that quality sleep.

Make sure at least two naps are in the crate for an hour each time. These two quality naps will help with their learning. The other times can be out on the floor or beneath your feet or wherever your puppy ends up plopping down. We do want to teach them to nap on the go but it shouldn’t be all the time.

The average amount of sleep a young puppy needs (under 6 months) is between 18-20 hours a day!

If you’re traveling or going to someone’s house and you can provide at least an hour for the puppy to sleep, be prepared with a travel crate and sound machine. Help to set them up for success falling asleep in a new place. The familiar sound and safe space will help them sleep better and longer.

Try not to exhaust your puppy before a nap; overtiredness will deter the napping process as the puppy will not be able to settle themselves if they’re over tired. Find a happy balance between drowsy and exhausted.

Sienna, around 3 months old