Sleeping is an art form for most dogs. Your dog might be a master at snoring on his back, or he might be perfecting the curling-up habit.
Not every dog sleeps equally easily, and a lack of sleep is never pleasant (or healthy) for our four-legged friends. Insomnia, which can affect a dog at any age, can be caused by various factors, such as environmental factors, health problems, or aging.
Fortunately, it's not always difficult to determine what's keeping your dog awake, and there are plenty of methods to quickly get him dreaming again. Let's take a look at them together!
Why doesn't your dog sleep at night?
It's essential to pay attention if your dog is restless or unable to go to bed at the end of a busy day. Most puppies love to sleep, and refusing to do so is a prominent symptom of a problem.
The following are the most common reasons for sleep problems in dogs
A new environment: People aren't the only ones who find moving unsettling. For a dog suddenly inundated with new sights, sounds, and smells, adjusting to a new environment is a challenge. If you've just adopted your dog, they'll be even more stressed because they don't know you yet.
Change in habits: Dogs, just like people, get used to a routine. Your dog may feel out of sorts and have trouble settling in if you don't provide a regular routine or if they receive less attention.
Household Changes: Adding (or losing) a family member or furry companion is difficult for your dog. Your dog may be unsure about their role in the pack or fearful of the change. Consult a trainer to help your dog adjust to a new puppy sibling.
Allergies or skin problems: Allergies or skin problems are quite troublesome. Food allergies and flea infestations can make it difficult for a dog to establish itself due to the intense itching and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Illness: Your dog may not express himself when sick, but his actions may. Restlessness is sometimes a sign of gastrointestinal or kidney problems, which can cause him to have to go to the bathroom more often. If you suspect your dog is ill, consult your veterinarian.
Pain: Arthritis or other conditions can make it difficult to lie down, especially if your dog's bed isn't properly padded. Bloating is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention if your dog is restless and drooling, pacing, or gagging but hasn't vomited. A stiff gait, whining, a change in breathing, panting, repeatedly licking a particular spot, or an unnatural position are all signs of pain. Any sign of discomfort warrants a veterinary visit.
Anxiety: An anxious dog will refuse to relax, whether this is due to persistent general anxiety or a sudden increase in anxiety caused by storms or fireworks. They may pace excessively, hide, or vocalize. Because anxiety can have physical consequences, it's important to take it seriously and treat the underlying cause for a happy, healthier pet.
Changed sleep patterns: Due to their seemingly endless activity, puppies are prone to sleep problems. Because your puppy may have trouble adjusting to your sleep patterns, it's important to establish a routine.
Age-related illnesses: As your dog ages, they may develop dementia, which can lead to "sundowner syndrome," or restlessness in the afternoon and evening. Another sleep-depriving condition is canine cognitive impairment, which causes dogs to wake up randomly and become confused.
Nightmares: Dogs, just like people, can experience nightmares, and some even appear to sleepwalk! Your dog might growl, whine, or scream in their sleep to indicate that their dream isn't so pleasant. Nightmares can be the result of a traumatic event or related to an anxiety issue.
Sleep Apnea: Most commonly found in short-nosed dogs (bulldogs, mastiffs, and pugs) or obese dogs, sleep apnea in dogs restricts airflow during their sleep and causes them to stop breathing, waking them up.
Lack of exercise: A happy dog isn't one that doesn't get enough exercise. They probably also don't sleep well. If your dog doesn't want to sleep at night but does want to play, they probably need extra walks or playtime in their schedule.
Solutions and strategies
The good news is that with a few adjustments, you can usually get your dog back to sleep in no time. Conquer bedtime again by:
Increase activity: If your dog is experiencing a change in habits or a lack of exercise, burning off extra energy is a surefire way to help them sleep in. High-energy breeds need an outlet, which can be provided by adding a new sport, taking an extra walk each day, or engaging in fun dog walking activities. Don't forget about seniors or dogs with mobility issues! Puppies' minds can still be exercised with interactive toys that don't require much activity.
Regular toileting: Dogs, like babies, thrive on routine. Maintaining a consistent feeding and toilet routine can help synchronize their internal clock with yours, resulting in a more restful night's sleep.
Providing security: A stressed dog may crave more attention at night to feel more comfortable. Giving them snug clothing, such as a Thundershirt, or a dark box with a comfortable bed to hide in can help. This is especially true during thunderstorms or pyrotechnics, when some dogs' anxiety levels are at their highest. It's also never a bad idea to provide more belly rubs and other forms of attention.
Change your dog's sleeping spot: Your dog may sometimes want to sleep closer to you. This doesn't have to be with you, but moving their bed or cage closer to your bed or bedroom can make them feel more secure (and less forgotten).
Improving his bed: Not all beds are suitable for all dogs. Memory foam or other joint-supporting mattresses, for example, are beneficial for dogs with arthritis. It can be as simple as replacing your dog's bed with a better one to help him sleep. Check out this dog cushion.
Supplements : A dog with general anxiety or occasional restlessness may sleep better 30 minutes or more before bedtime if given a calming supplement. Calming supplements, usually available in soft chewable tablets, can be used as a midnight treat and contain active ingredients like melatonin and L-tryptophan, which can help calm a nervous dog.
Darken the environment: Even with the lights on in the house, your dog may feel the urge to get up and move around. Make sure their sleeping quarters are dark. Use a crate cover if necessary. These are especially helpful during storms or fireworks, when flashes from outside can cause anxiety.
Add background noise: Playing classical or other relaxing music at a low volume will help your dog fall asleep by drowning out distracting stimuli. This is especially helpful in unfamiliar situations, where simple objects like a refrigerator or heater can startle your dog.
Try CBD: Some dog owners have found that CBD supplements have helped their stressed dogs relax and sleep better. CBD is available in both oil and treat form and can be used as a long-term therapy or a one-time boost during sleepless nights.
Bedtime Brushing: Not only can brushing your dog before bedtime help them look their best, but it can also be relaxing. Brushing is a bonding experience for you and your dog, and it can also help them relax. Check out our professional brushes.
A visit to the vet: If the drowsiness persists, a vet visit for a complete checkup is necessary. Medications are available to help with persistent difficulties, including sleep aids for dogs and dogs with cognitive impairment.
