If you’re wondering how to calm your dog to sleep better, you’re not alone. Just like us, dogs need quality rest to stay happy and healthy.

From reducing anxiety to setting a solid bedtime routine, there are several ways you can help your pup settle down at night and drift into a peaceful sleep.

Whether you’ve got a brand-new puppy or a seasoned senior snoozer, here are practical, dog-friendly tips to help your four-legged friend relax and sleep through the night.

8 Ways To Keep Your Dog Calm & Help Them Sleep Better

1. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment

One of the easiest ways to calm your dog and help them sleep better is by creating a cozy, stress-free space. Just like humans, dogs sleep best when they feel safe and comfortable.

Here’s what helps:

• Use a soft bed, snuggly blanket, and a favorite toy, especially helpful for crate training puppies.

• Choose a quiet, dark room, away from noisy areas or distractions.

• Keep the temperature cool, dogs can easily overheat at night.

  • If your dog pants a lot at bedtime, try:

    • Opening a window

    • Moving their bed away from radiators or heaters

    • Placing them in a more ventilated room

A calm, comfy space can make a huge difference in helping your dog settle down and sleep through the night.

2. Set a Consistent Bedtime Routine

A daily routine can calm your dog and help them sleep better, especially during their puppy years. Dogs thrive on structure, it reduces anxiety and builds trust.

Try to keep these routines consistent:

• Feeding times

• Exercise sessions

• Bedtime

Structured days can reduce behaviours like:

• Excessive barking

• Chewing

• Indoor accidents

💡 Pro tip: Sync your dog's bedtime with your own. Whether they sleep beside you or in their own space, matching your schedule can help them feel more settled and secure.

3. Try Aromatherapy for Relaxation

Aromatherapy is a gentle, natural way to calm your dog and help them sleep better. Certain dog-safe essential oils can reduce stress and encourage relaxation at bedtime.

Best calming oils for dogs:

• Lavender – soothes anxiety

• Chamomile – promotes calm and sleep

You can use:

• Shampoos with calming scents

• Sprays on their blanket or bedding

• A diffuser (used with caution and vet approval)

Adding aromatherapy to your dog’s nighttime routine can help them unwind and drift off more easily - just like us!

4. Reduce Evening Anxiety

To truly calm your dog and help them sleep better, it's important to ease their anxiety, especially before bedtime. A relaxed dog sleeps more deeply and settles faster.

Try these calming techniques:

• Give calming treats after dinner

  • Look for natural ingredients like lavender, chamomile, or valerian root

• Go for a gentle evening walk to release excess energy

• Enjoy quiet play or cuddle time to build emotional connection

These small moments of TLC can make a big difference in helping your dog feel secure and ready for rest

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5. Consider Crate Training

Crate training can be a great way to calm your dog and help them sleep better, especially for puppies or new dogs adjusting to your home.

Here’s how to make it work:

• Place the crate in your bedroom or a quiet, low-traffic area

• Add soft bedding, a blanket, and a familiar toy

• Make sure the crate is spacious enough for your dog to move and stretch

When used correctly, a crate becomes a secure, calming space—not a punishment. It helps your dog feel safe, relaxed, and ready for sleep.

6. Use Soothing Sounds to Relax Your Dog

Sound can play a powerful role in helping to calm your dog and help them sleep better. Just like us, dogs respond well to gentle, relaxing background noise.

Try playing:

• Classical music (like Mozart or Beethoven)

• Nature sounds – ocean waves, rainfall, or forest ambience

• White noise to block out household distractions

Studies show calming music can reduce stress in dogs and promote better sleep. So next time bedtime is a struggle, try pressing play on something peaceful.

7. Rule Out Underlying Medical Issues

Sometimes the best way to calm your dog and help them sleep better is by identifying a hidden health issue.

Watch out for signs like:

• Excessive urination (especially at night)

• Restlessness or pacing

• Heavy breathing or coughing

These could indicate conditions like diabetes, urinary tract infections, or respiratory problems. Always check in with your vet if your dog’s sleep habits or nighttime behaviour suddenly change.

Early detection can help your dog feel more comfortable and sleep more soundly.

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8. Be Patient & Build Trust

One of the most powerful ways to calm your dog and help them sleep better is with patience. Good sleep habits take time and consistency.

Keep in mind:

• Avoid frustration during bedtime training

• Skip negative reinforcement if they bark or seek attention

• Focus on calm routines and positive encouragement

• Spend quality time in the evenings to build connection and trust

With time, love, and patience, your dog will start to feel more secure and more ready to snooze peacefully through the night.

Get Ready To Sleep A Little Easier Now

Helping your dog feel safe, calm, and well-rested doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple changes like more daytime activity, a cozy sleeping spot, and a soothing bedtime routine, you can calm your dog and help them sleep better every night.

Adding natural calming treats, gentle aromatherapy, and some extra love in the evenings can go a long way. With a little consistency and care, your dog will be curled up and catching zzzs in no time.

Read more: 10 Sleeping Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know