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Why does my dog think bedtime is playtime?

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Why does my dog think bedtime is playtime?

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Why does my dog think bedtime is playtime? Dogs are creatures of habit.

They often repeat the same behaviors over and over again.

However, dogs also have their schedule when it comes to sleep.

And many dogs use this schedule as a means to play!

So if your dog is getting in bed simultaneously every day, you probably have a problem!

Why does my dog think bedtime is playtime?

How to Calm Down a Dog Before Bedtime

Step 1: Give a Calming Treat

Like many dogs who seem to know somehow when it’s time for their people to get home or when it’s time for dinner, you may soon find that your pup is reminding you to give him his treat so he can sleep!

The Anxious Pet makes a heavenly chew for dogs that incorporates calming Acetyl L-Carnitine, Magnolia St. John’s Wart, Barberry, and Cannabidiol (CBD) oil extract without THC.

Step 2:  Provide a Secure, Comfy Place to Sleep

Dogs sleep for a variety of reasons.

Some like to sleep, others are worn out from the day’s activities, and still, others might be sick or injured (or in pain).

Regardless of why your dog isn’t sleeping well at night, he needs a bed that helps him feel safe and comfortable.

Your first step is identifying whether his problem is physical or behavioral.

For example, dogs who have difficulty walking may need elevated beds, so they don’t injure themselves while getting up.

Those recovering from surgery also benefit significantly from raised beds because they can move more freely without fear of falling off an elevated surface when trying to get up and down.

On the other hand, if your dog sleeps on a lower mattress every night but seems uncomfortable when you observe him during the day, suspect that something is physically bothering him while he sleeps—perhaps his arthritis bothers him more than it does during the day, or maybe he has developed other problems due to aging that cause discomfort at night as well as during the day?

Step 3:  Find His Favorite Cuddle Toy

Buying the right dog toy is a science, but there are some simple things to bear in mind when choosing one for your dog.

First and foremost, it needs to be something he can’t destroy within minutes of being given it!

Chew toys will help keep his teeth clean (and stop you from finding them under the sofa), while soft toys are perfect for snuggling up.

Plush toys with squeakers inside may seem like an ideal solution, but they probably won’t do much good – most dogs soon get bored trying to extract the squeaker from its casing and ripping out any stuffing or seams instead.

Plus, if your pup has even a little energy left after napping time, he’ll want to play after his nap anyway.

So it might be better to wait until later in the evening before giving him a new toy so that both you and he can enjoy bedtime without playing.

Why does my dog think bedtime is playtime?
Eight-week-old English Show Cocker Spaniel puppy with chew toy.

Step 4: Using Calming Scents and Sounds

One of the most simple and effective ways to help calm your anxious dog at bedtime is by using essential oils.

I love this all-natural spray from ThunderEssence, the makers of the ThunderShirt!

It’s made with lavender, chamomile, and Egyptian geranium essential oils, and it smells fantastic!

You can make your calming spray or follow these guidelines for a great recipe:

  • – Spray 1 part distilled water to 2 pieces of filtered witch hazel (a preservative-free alcohol-based extract) in an 8-ounce glass spray bottle.
  • – Add 40 drops each of lavender, chamomile, and Egyptian geranium oil. Shake before using.
  • – Spray on beds or toys 30 minutes before bedtime every night as needed until symptoms subside. For severe cases, you may want to add 20 drops of vetiver oil too.

Step 5: Calm Him with Together Time 

Once your pup is all calm, it’s time for my favorite part of the bedtime routine – the particular together time!

Choose any quiet activity you and your pup enjoy, like a gentle ear rubbing while you thank him for being such a good boy that day.

While some dogs don’t care for close snuggling, most will appreciate their human being by their side, giving them gentle pats.

Suppose your dog likes toys or treats as rewards; even better!

Give them to him in short bursts during this time so he won’t feel pressured and stressed out – but instead relaxed and happy.  

If we can get through those first few minutes of preparing our pups for bed, they settle down more easily when it comes time to sleep (even without all the steps outlined here).

When to Get Help from a Behavior Consultant

If your dog is exhibiting separation anxiety, I’d love to help!

You can learn more about that in this post.

While some dogs are just wired with more anxious personalities than others, there are many things you can do to reduce stress and make your pup feel safe at home.

However, suppose you’ve tried everything here and still have concerns about how much anxiety your dog exhibits when left alone or as you prepare to leave the house each day.

In that case, it may be time to get some professional help from a certified veterinary behaviorist.

These veterinarians undergo intensive training in animal behavior to treat pets with mental health issues effectively.

If you decide that professional guidance might help reduce the stress levels of your anxious canine companion, contact the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (ACVB).

ACVB members specialize in treating pet behavioral problems using various treatment options, including medication management, environmental enrichment techniques, and counseling/training programs geared toward improving behavior while strengthening the human-animal bond.

Why does my dog think bedtime is playtime?
German short-haired pointer Kurzhaar and trainer outdoors. Natural light and colors

Final Thoughts, why does my dog think bedtime is playtime?

In conclusion, dogs are very social animals.

They need human companionship and love to play with you, their owner.

As a result, they think that all the time spent alone is just for fun. Help your dog understand that it is time for bed, not play!

FAQs

Why does my dog playtime at bedtime?

Your dog may be playing at bedtime because it’s a fun and stimulating activity for them. For example, dogs often enjoy playing fetch, tug-of-war, or simply running around. Playing can also help wear them out before bed, so they’re more likely to sleep through the night.

Do dogs know when bedtime is?

Dogs know when bedtime is because their owners tell them. Dogs are brilliant and can learn a lot of things from their owners.

Why does my dog get nippy at night?

There could be a few reasons why your dog gets nippy at night. One possibility is that they’re anxious or restless due to being left alone during the day. Alternatively, it could respond to changes in their environment, such as new people or pets in the home. Dogs can also become more territorial at night when there’s less activity in the house. If you’re not sure what’s causing your dog’s behavior, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian or behaviorist.

Why does my dog get hyper before bed?

There could be a few reasons why your dog gets hyper before bed. One possibility is that they’re simply excited about spending time with you. Another option is that they’re anxious or restless and try to get rid of energy before bed. If your dog has a lot of energy before bed, try taking them on a walk or playing with them in the yard earlier in the evening. This can help wear them out and make them more likely to relax once it’s time for bed.

At what age do puppy crazies stop?

Puppy crazies usually stop when the puppy is around 9 to 12 months old.

how to calm a puppy down at night

There are a few things you can do to help calm your puppy down at night. One is to create a bed for them out of soft blankets or towels and make sure they have plenty of toys to keep them occupied. You can also try playing soothing music or white noise to help them relax. If your puppy is still having trouble settling down, you may want to consider using a ThunderShirt, a garment designed to calm dogs during thunderstorms or other stressful situations.

how to calm a restless dog at night

You can do a few things to help calm your restless dog at night. One is to create a bedtime routine that your dog can expect. This might include taking a walk, playing fetch, or giving them a Kong toy stuffed with treats. You can also try using a calming product such as lavender oil or chamomile tea. And lastly, make sure your dog has plenty of exercise during the day, so they’re not as restless at night.

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