Should I Sleep with My Puppy on the First Night? A Guide to Puppy Sleeping Arrangements

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting and heartwarming experience. As a new pet parent, you may find yourself faced with lots of questions, one of the most common being: "Should I sleep with my puppy on the first night?"

This decision can impact your puppy's adjustment to their new environment and your overall sleep quality. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of sleeping with your puppy on the first night and offer guidance on finding the best sleeping arrangement for both you and your furry friend.

The Pros of Sleeping with Your Puppy:

1. Comfort and Security: Sleeping with your puppy can provide them with a sense of comfort and security, helping them adjust to their new surroundings more easily. As your puppy is in a new home, away from their mother and siblings, it can be quite stressful for them in the first few days and first week. Give them plenty of time to settle in and offer reassurance to them.

2. Bonding: Sharing a sleeping space with your puppy from the start can strengthen the bond between you and your new furry family member.

3. Reduced Anxiety: New environments can be stressful for puppies. Sleeping together can help reduce anxiety and make the transition smoother.

The Cons of Sleeping with Your Puppy:

1. Establishing Boundaries: Allowing your puppy to sleep in your bed may make it challenging to establish boundaries later on. Consider where you want your puppy to sleep in the long term. Getting them set up for their future with you will make it easier in the long run.

2. Interrupted Sleep: Puppies are known for their boundless energy and occasional nighttime restlessness. Sharing a bed may result in interrupted sleep for both you and your puppy. However, if your puppy is left alone in a crate, be prepared for crying. Each puppy is different, some settle in very quickly ie. a few days and some take longer. Be patient with your puppy, they will have night time cries if they are left alone at bedtime. Just remember that this does not last long.

3. Potential Behavioural Issues: Some experts believe that allowing your puppy to sleep in your bed could lead to behavioural issues, such as separation anxiety or dominance behaviours. We personally sleep with our dogs in the bed and have never had a problem, just make sure you've got enough room in your bed to have a peaceful and comfortable night sleep. The decision to let your dog sleep in your bed is completely down to you, do your research and decide.

Tips for a Successful First Night:

1. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Space: Whether your puppy sleeps in your bed or a designated area nearby, ensure it is comfortable and secure. Consider using a soft bed and some familiar safe toys. We wouldn't recommend toys that your puppy could rip up and swallow, while you're sleeping. Sometimes, it's best to not sleep with toys and just have some blankets on you instead to create warmth and comfort.

2. Establish a Routine: Establishing a bedtime routine can help signal to your puppy that it's time to wind down for the night. This might include a short walk, playtime, or a calming bedtime snack.

3. Consider a Transition Period: If you're unsure about allowing your puppy to sleep in your bed permanently, consider a gradual transition. Start by having your puppy sleep in a crate or designated area close to you and gradually move them to their intended sleeping space.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the decision of whether to sleep with your puppy on the first night depends on your personal preferences and the dynamics of your household. It's essential to consider the long-term implications and your puppy's well-being. By taking the time to create a comfortable and secure sleeping environment, you can ensure a positive start to your puppy's life in their new home while fostering a strong bond between you and your four-legged friend. Sweet dreams for both you and your new puppy!

- CanineCraftsUK