Dogs bedtime routine
Establishing a bedtime routine for your dog not only helps them feel secure but also sets the stage for sweet dreams. A calming bedtime walk and cuddling in their bed can help your pup relax. Creating a warm and inviting atmosphere makes it easier for them to fall asleep. So, let’s explore some delightful rituals that will turn your dog’s bedtime into a cherished moment for both of you!
How to settle your dog before bed
As the sun sets and the stars appear, it’s important to make a calm space for your pet. This helps them settle in for a cosy night’s sleep. Plenty of ways exist to ensure your pup is ready to drift off into dreamland.
However, your dog may have other plans. It might feel very energetic, jumpy, or even a little rebellious. While there could be underlying issues at play, it’s likely that this bedtime challenge can be addressed with a few straightforward adjustments. Check out these bedtime tips for dogs, and with a little luck they’ll be snoozing soundly in no time.
Spend quality time together
To help your pup feel calm and happy before bed, spend some time together in the hours before sleep. This can involve cuddling, playing, giving a few head scratches or taking them on a late-night walk. The mental engagement can help use up any unwanted energy, making them ready for bed.
This can also be how to help a dog with anxiety as spending time with your dog can greatly reduce their anxiety by providing comfort and security. Your presence reassures them, making them feel safe and loved.
Activities like playtime, walks, and cuddling help distract them from worries. These activities promote relaxation and strengthen your bond. This creates a sense of stability that helps your furry friend feel more at ease!
Let them out before bedtime
Before your furry friend snuggles up for a night of sweet dreams in their pet bed, it’s important to give them one last chance to head outside! This pre-bedtime outing helps them use up extra energy. It also lets them do their business. This way, they won’t wake you up at 3 a.m. with that “I need to go NOW” look.
Whether it’s a quick zoom around the yard or a leisurely sniff around the block, this final adventure lets them wind down and signals it’s time to hit the hay. Plus, a little fresh air and movement is the perfect way for your pup to settle into sleep mode.
The importance of your pet’s bed
Our pets need a comfy, cosy place to rest their heads at the end of a busy day. And good pet beds aren’t just a luxury—it’s a must for your dog’s health and happiness! The right dog bed should offer them a perfect spot to relax, stretch out, and get comfy.
The perfect bed depends on the pup. If your dog has arthritis or joint pain their bed should support their joints, a bed we would recommend for this is the Silentnight Orthopaedic Pet Bed, the Snug Orthopaedic Pet Bed or even the Silentnight Firm Support Crate Mattress Pet Bed. Each of these beds are made with a special foam layer that helps evenly spread your pet’s weight, giving comfy support to their joints and pressure points.
If you can’t help but let the puppy eyes win and let your pooch sleep in your bed or on the sofa, the perfect pet bed for this is the Silentnight Calming Sofa Protector Pet Bed. This pet bed completely protects your bed and sofa from all the dog hairs and mud while replicating the nesting environment which helps your pet feel calm and reduces anxiety.
You should also always make sure your dog fits correctly in their bed. If you have a large breed dog, you must get a dog bed large enough to fit him/her. Find pet beds for extra large dogs so your dog has room to stretch and isn’t confined. Try the Snug Super Fluffy Pet Bed which is available in XL size.
The Silentnight Airmax Pet Bed – Grey is ideal for all seasons, offering year-round comfort for your dog. Its reversible design features a cosy teddy fleece side for warmth in colder months, while the cooling quilted polyester side helps regulate temperature in warmer weather. With breathable materials, it keeps your pet comfortable no matter the season.
Pawsome facts about dog’s sleep
What do dogs dream about? Ever catch your pup twitching or wagging in their sleep and wonder what they’re dreaming about? When dogs drift off to dreamland, they might be chasing their favourite squeaky toy, frolicking in fields of treats, or having epic playdates with their furry pals! Just like us, dogs and dreams go hand in paw, filled with joyful adventures.
How long do dogs sleep? Ever wonder how much sleep your furry friend needs to recharge? Well, dogs can snooze anywhere from 12 to 14 hours a day, depending on their age and energy level! Puppies and older dogs may catch even more Zs, while younger pups might have bursts of energy in between their naps.
Why do dogs sleep so much? Dogs sleep for different reasons, mostly to save energy and support their overall health. Puppies, for instance, can sleep up to 18-20 hours a day, which is crucial for their growth and development. Older dogs tend to nap more as they slow down, while even young, active dogs need their beauty sleep to recover from daily adventures. One theory behind why dogs sleep so much more than humans are that they spend a smaller percentage of sleeping in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Dogs only spend about 10% of their sleep in REM, whereas humans spend about 25%. This means dogs need to sleep longer to compensate for their loss of REM.
Dogs sleeping positions:
Dog sleeping positions are like little windows into your pup’s personality and comfort levels! Here are some playful ones to look out for:
1. Curled up (the donut): When your dog curls up in a tight little ball, they’re basically turning into a fluffy donut! This cosy position keeps them warm and protects their precious tummy, showing they feel safe and snug.
2. On their side (the hero): If you see your pup lying on their side with legs in the air, they are utterly relaxed! This position lets them bask in comfort and get some serious Zs.
3. Stomach sleeping (the superman): Dogs that sleep on their bellies with their legs stretched out are ready to jump into action! This playful pose means they’re alert and always up for fun.
4. Back sleeping (the belly up): When your dog lies on their back and shows their belly, they want you to rub it! This position means they trust you completely and are ready to soak up some love.
5. Cuddled up to you: If your furry friend loves to snuggle up close while they snooze, they’re seeking warmth and love! It’s their way of saying, “You’re my favourite, and I want to be near you!”
To learn what pet bed suits your dog’s sleeping position, check out our pawfect pet bed guide.
How to help calm an anxious dog
To help calm an anxious dog, start by creating a cosy, safe space where they can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. Close the curtains, turn on the TV, or play calming music to muffle outside noises, especially for busy neighbourhoods or if there is an event happening close by. Keep their favourite bed, toys, and treats close by for comfort.
For especially anxious pups try the Silentnight Calming Donut Pet Bed. This bed’s shape appeals to your pet’s natural nesting instinct to help create a calming environment and reduce anxiety. Or the Silentnight Calming Fluffy Pet Blanket , the long faux fur provides anxiety reducing comfort to help create a calm sleep environment for your pet.
Giving your dog extra exercise earlier in the day can also help burn off nervous energy. And don’t forget to offer plenty of cuddles and reassurance; your calm presence will help them feel safe and secure.
In conclusion, a calming bedtime routine helps your dog feel secure and helps you both rest easier when the time comes.
You’ll set your pup up for sweet dreams and ensure they’re well-rested for another day of fun and adventures! Sweet dreams await!