Getting a new puppy can be an exciting experience to say the least, but at the same time it can also be nerve-racking because you have a new-found level of responsibility as well. Of course, helping your puppy to settle at night really is important because moving into your home can be a huge change for them and at times, they may even struggle to adjust. If you want to help them here, then there are a few things that you can do. Take a look below to find out more about calming a puppy.
Give them Plenty of Exercise during the Day
The more you can stimulate your puppy’s mind and body, the easier they’ll be able to sleep at night. It’s important that you choose age-appropriate toys here, and that you also make the effort to try and observe their body language as well. If you know that your puppy is tiring, then it’s best not to overstimulate them. Instead, leave the toys for now and revisit them later in the afternoon. This will give them chance to recharge their energy while also helping you to bond with them more.
Keep Bedtime as Calm as Possible
If you want to give your puppy the best chance of being calm, then you need to start winding things down at night. Don’t’ play with them during the last half hour before bedtime and also make sure that you give them a good routine as well. Eventually, your puppy will know when it’s time to sleep, and this will help you and them out far more than you think.
Peeing and Pooping
Sometimes when a new puppy goes outside into the wide-open world, they get distracted by the sheer amount of smells and sights and when they do, they may forget that they are out there for a reason. If you want to help them here, then don’t bring them inside until they have gone to the bathroom. If you do this then you will soon find that they are able to settle more as they aren’t having to get up for the bathroom all the time. If you don’t think that your puppy is able to go properly then this could indicate that you need to change their dog food. Barking Heads have a wide selection of products available if you want to give your puppy a healthy diet.
Give them Something to Chew
Chewing is a very calming activity that all dogs can really enjoy. If you have a puppy then there’s a chance that they are teething, so give them an edible chew or bone when you put them to bed. This will help them to burn off that last bit of energy and it will also give them something to keep them occupied while you make your way to bed. Little things like this can make a huge difference to their comfort level and it can also help you to establish a solid routine for them as well.
