Are you a dog lover and can’t get enough of man’s best friend?
Like humans, our pets become our children. And like children, they love to play, eat, make a mess, give lots of love and sleep right up under your nose.
While all of these things make a dog man’s best friend, they all can be a handful at times – especially when you’re trying to call it a night, take a nap, or even get some silent alone time. Have you ever settled down to sleep and your pet was working full throttle for some one on one action?
Does it seem like your dog just can’t sleep on their dog bed when it’s time to sleep? Have you ever wished your dog’s sleeping habits were corresponding with yours? If you’re reading this post, you’ve probably been there before. And are looking for any solution that will improve your dog’s sleeping habits. Look no further. Here are 5 ways to get your dog on the track to have less sleepless nights and more cuddle time.
Dozing:
Do you allow your dozing dog to sleep? If so, are you finding that your nap-happy dog is up and at it just as you’re ready to call it a night? A single nap for your dog is ok, but taking several naps can be too much. Dozing off is a sign of being tired or bored.
During the day time, it’s best to keep your dog up and active – especially when it is almost bedtime. This is an excellent indication that your dog is sleepy and ready for bed. Depending on the time of day, dozing off is perfect for a long night sleep. Your dog can also doze off when it’s just finished its food, which leads us to our next topic.
Feeding:
Like humans, it’s best to eat well before your bedtime. Here are 3 reasons why it’s a bad idea to feed your dog before bedtime.
- Excess energy to burn in the night- Feeding your dog at night will give them the energy that they need to be extremely playful. That’s the energy that should normally be used during the day.
- Tired during the day- Dogs are recommended to be fed twice a day.. If you feed a dog too late in the day, they won’t have the energy to walk, exercise, and play throughout the day.
- Potty break- No doubt, that when you feed your dog close to bedtime, they will wake up in the middle of the night wanting to go to the potty. This action will for sure throw their sleeping pattern off.
Exercise/ Calming Techniques:
A good workout during the day can always lead to a good night’s sleep. In addition to exercising, here are 3 techniques that can calm your dog down and help him sleep throughout the night. According to Victoria Stilwell, the 3 techniques are:
- Long strokes down the side of the face and/or body. Dogs will relax while being caressed.
- Massage the ears. Dog ears contain many nerve endings and can release endorphins into your dog’s body when you massage them. Slowly stroke the ears in a circular movement with your finger.
- Rub the chest. Gentle strokes on its chest in a circular motion will calm and relax the dog.
