How to Calm a Restless Dog at Night: 7 Proven Steps for Better Sleep
It’s 11pm, you’re shattered, and your dog has other ideas. They’re pacing, whining, jumping on and off the bed, and you’re googling how to calm a restless dog at night for the tenth time this week. The good news is, this isn’t “just how they are” – with a few smart changes you can usually turn those chaotic nights into something much calmer. This guide walks through why dogs get restless at night, the exact steps to calm them, and real-world examples you can copy tonight. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan you can follow over the next 7–14 days to help your dog – and you – finally sleep. Why Your Dog Is Restless At Night (And Why It Matters) Before you can calm a restless dog at night, you need to understand what’s actually driving the behaviour. Restlessness is a symptom, not a personality trait. Common causes include: Stress or anxiety (separation, noises, changes at home) Under-stimulation or inconsistent routine Needing the toilet or being uncomfortable Pain, aging, o...