Learn how to create a calming bedtime routine for your dog. Expert UK tips for better sleep, reduced anxiety, and happier, well-rested dogs.
A good night’s sleep is just as important for dogs as it is for humans. Yet many dog owners across the UK struggle with restless evenings, pacing, barking, or dogs that simply won’t settle at night. The good news? A calm, consistent bedtime routine can make a huge difference to your dog’s behaviour, mental health, and overall wellbeing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to create a calming bedtime routine for your dog, why it matters, and which habits help dogs feel safe, relaxed, and ready for sleep.
Why a Bedtime Routine Is Important for Dogs
Dogs thrive on structure and predictability. In the wild, routines helped them feel safe. In modern homes, routines still provide emotional security.
Without a clear bedtime routine, dogs may:
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Feel overstimulated in the evening
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Struggle to switch off
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Develop anxiety or attention-seeking behaviours
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Wake frequently during the night
A consistent routine signals to your dog that the day is ending and it’s time to rest.
Signs Your Dog Struggles to Settle at Night
Your dog may need a calmer bedtime routine if they:
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Pace or whine in the evening
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Bark at small noises
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Demand attention late at night
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Chew furniture or toys excessively
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Appear overtired or restless
These behaviours are often linked to overstimulation, lack of mental fulfilment, or inconsistent routines.
Step 1: Set a Consistent Bedtime
Dogs don’t tell time, but they recognise patterns.
Try to:
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Put your dog to bed at roughly the same time each night
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Keep feeding, walks, and playtimes consistent
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Avoid big schedule changes where possible
Consistency helps regulate your dog’s internal clock, making it easier for them to relax naturally.
Step 2: Burn Energy the Right Way (Not Too Late)
Exercise is essential – but timing matters.
Evening Exercise Tips
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Aim for a calm walk 1–2 hours before bedtime
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Avoid intense play or chasing games late at night
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Let your dog sniff – sniffing is mentally calming
A relaxed walk helps release excess energy without overstimulating your dog right before sleep.
Step 3: Use Mental Stimulation to Wind Down
Mental enrichment can be just as tiring as physical exercise – and often more calming.
Great bedtime-friendly activities include:
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Puzzle toys with low-value treats
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Snuffle mats
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Lick mats (especially calming for anxious dogs)
Licking and problem-solving release calming hormones that help dogs settle naturally.
Step 4: Create a Calm Evening Environment
Dogs are highly sensitive to their surroundings.
To encourage relaxation:
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Dim the lights in the evening
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Lower TV or music volume
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Avoid loud voices or sudden noises
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Keep household activity calm
A quieter environment tells your dog’s nervous system that it’s safe to relax.
Step 5: Establish a Pre-Bedtime Ritual
Just like humans, dogs benefit from predictable pre-sleep cues.
A simple bedtime ritual might include:
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Final toilet break
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Calm interaction (gentle stroking or brushing)
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A quiet chew or enrichment toy
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Being guided to their sleeping area
Repeating the same steps every night builds a strong association with sleep.
Step 6: Choose the Right Sleeping Area
Where your dog sleeps matters.
An ideal dog sleeping area should:
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Be quiet and draft-free
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Feel secure (not in the middle of busy foot traffic)
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Have a comfortable, supportive bed
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Be consistent – avoid moving it frequently
Some dogs prefer enclosed spaces, while others like open beds. Pay attention to what helps your dog settle fastest.
Step 7: Avoid Overstimulation Before Bed
Certain activities can make it harder for dogs to switch off.
Try to avoid:
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Rough play late in the evening
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High-energy games like fetch
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New toys right before bed
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Exciting visitors close to bedtime
Save stimulating activities for earlier in the day.
Step 8: Use Calm, Predictable Cues
Dogs respond strongly to verbal and physical cues.
Helpful cues include:
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A calm phrase like “bedtime” or “settle”
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Slow movements and gentle tones
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Leading your dog to bed rather than chasing or calling excitedly
Over time, these cues become powerful signals that sleep is coming.
Step 9: Feeding Timing Matters
For most dogs:
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Evening meals should be at least 2 hours before bedtime
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Late feeding can increase energy or cause discomfort
If your dog wakes early due to hunger, a small bedtime snack or slow feeder may help – but avoid making it a high-energy event.
Step 10: Be Patient and Consistent
Changing behaviour doesn’t happen overnight.
Expect:
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Gradual improvement over 1–3 weeks
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Occasional setbacks
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Faster results with consistency
If your dog has severe anxiety or sleep issues, consult a qualified UK behaviourist or vet.
Bedtime Routines for Puppies vs Adult Dogs
Puppies
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Need more toilet breaks
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Benefit from shorter routines
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May need reassurance at bedtime
Adult Dogs
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Thrive on consistency
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Often settle faster once routines are established
Senior Dogs
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May need softer bedding
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More frequent toilet access
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Extra reassurance
Tailor routines to your dog’s age and needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Changing bedtime every night
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Giving attention during night-time whining
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Using bedtime as punishment
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Expecting instant results
Calm, predictable routines work best.
Final Thoughts: Calm Nights Start With Calm Habits
A peaceful bedtime routine doesn’t just improve sleep – it improves your dog’s mental health, confidence, and overall happiness. By creating structure, reducing stimulation, and ending each day calmly, you help your dog feel safe, secure, and relaxed.
A well-rested dog is:
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Happier
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Calmer
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Easier to train
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Better behaved
And that means better sleep for you too.
Help Your Dog Settle Naturally
Explore our range of calming dog beds, enrichment toys, and bedtime essentials designed to support relaxation and better sleep 🐾