So, you brought home a brand-new puppy. They’re cute, they’re cuddly, they smell like hope and milk bones… and they’re wide awake at 2 a.m.

If you’re Googling how to get a puppy to sleep through the night while wrapped in a blanket and sipping cold coffee, we feel you. Puppies are babies with four legs and tiny bladders, and just like human babies, they don’t come pre-programmed to sleep eight hours straight.

The good news? Sleep is possible, and we’re here to help you (and your pup) get there faster.

Why Your Puppy Isn’t Sleeping Yet

Before we jump into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Puppies don’t sleep through the night right away because:

• They have small bladders
• They’re adjusting to a new environment
• They miss their littermates
• They haven’t learned what nighttime is
• They think barking at 3 a.m. is a team sport

Knowing this helps you respond with patience (and maybe a little grace at 4 a.m.).

How to Get a Puppy to Sleep Through the Night: Step-by-Step

At Jones Farm Puppies, we raise our pups with loving routines and early crate training to ensure they are well-prepared for a successful nighttime routine. If you’re wondering how to get a puppy to sleep through the night, start with these practical tips:

1. Create a Calm Bedtime Routine

Just like kids, puppies thrive on routine. Try something like:

• A final potty break
• A quiet cuddle or massage
• Dimming the lights
• Soft music or white noise

Your goal? To teach your puppy that nighttime means winding down, not revving up for round three of sock wrestling.

2. Tire Them Out (But Not Too Late!)

Want to know how to get a puppy to sleep through the night without midnight chaos? Ensure they’ve received sufficient physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. Playtime, training sessions, and puzzle toys are all great ways to burn energy.

But avoid high-energy play right before bed; otherwise, you’re inviting a case of the zoomies.

3. Crate Train with Comfort in Mind

A crate can be a game-changer. It gives your puppy a cozy, safe space to rest—and helps limit nighttime wandering (and chewing).

Tips for crate training success:

• Make the crate soft and inviting by adding a blanket and a chew-safe toy.
• Place the crate near your bed for comfort.
• Don’t use it for punishment.
• Stay calm during late-night potty breaks: no talking, no play, just business.

Crate training is one of the most effective ways to help a puppy sleep through the night, as it establishes boundaries while providing a sense of security and comfort.

4. Limit Water Before Bed

We’re not saying dehydrate your pup, but cutting off water an hour or two before bedtime can help reduce the need for potty breaks at 2 a.m. Just make sure they’re well hydrated throughout the day.

5. Be Strategic With Feeding Times

Feeding dinner too late can lead to a full tummy and an urgent need to “go” during the night. Try feeding your puppy about 3–4 hours before bedtime, followed by a potty break.

It’s a small change that makes a big difference when figuring out how to get a puppy to sleep through the night.

6. Expect (and Plan for) Nighttime Potty Breaks

Sorry, there’s no way around this one at first. Puppies under 12 weeks will need at least one potty break during the night. You can gradually increase the time between breaks as your puppy grows and their bladder matures.

Pro tip: Use your phone alarm to wake you up before your puppy does. It makes for a smoother, less barky night.

7. Don’t Reinforce Middle-of-the-Night Playtime

If your puppy wakes up and you instantly start playing, cuddling, or talking to them, they’ll start expecting that every night. Keep nighttime interactions brief, quiet, and strictly limited to bathroom-related matters.

When you’re focused on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night, consistency is key.

8. Try White Noise or a Comfort Item

Some puppies sleep better with a bit of background noise or a familiar smell. White noise machines or calming puppy playlists can help ease anxiety. A soft stuffed toy or blanket that smells like their littermates can be magic, too.

We send our puppies from Jones Farm Puppies home with familiar comforts to help ease the transition and make those first few nights a little easier.

How Long Until Puppies Sleep Through the Night?

The million-dollar question, right?

Every puppy is different, but most start sleeping 6–8 hours straight by the time they’re 12–16 weeks old. Some sleep champs manage it sooner, especially with consistent routines, crate training, and lots of love.

The key to getting a puppy to sleep through the night is patience, structure, and meeting your pup where they’re at developmentally.

When to Talk to Your Vet

If your puppy is:

• Waking up constantly despite all your efforts
• Having frequent accidents despite scheduled breaks
• Crying all night with no relief from comfort strategies

…it’s worth checking in with your vet to rule out health issues or anxiety.

Sometimes, sleep struggles aren’t about training; they’re about something your puppy can’t communicate without help.

Final Thoughts: Sleep Is Coming

It may not feel like it now (especially if you’ve stepped in a 3 a.m. puddle), but this phase will pass. Puppies grow fast, and with the proper support, most become excellent little sleepers before you know it.

At Jones Farm Puppies, we prepare every puppy with crate training, structure, and early routine exposure, because we know how much sleep matters, for both pups and parents. If you’ve been asking how to get a puppy to sleep through the night, know that you’re not alone, and yes, it’s possible.

You’ll be back to full nights of sleep soon… with a snoring doodle at your feet.

FAQs: How to Get a Puppy to Sleep Through the Night

Do I need to crate train my puppy to help them sleep through the night?
Not necessarily, but crate training does help most puppies learn safe sleep habits faster.

Should I let my puppy cry it out at night?
A little whining is typical, but prolonged crying may indicate that they need to use the bathroom or feel anxious. Comfort them calmly and quietly when needed.

How long can a puppy hold their bladder at night?
A good rule of thumb: one hour per month of age. So, an 8-week-old pup may only last 2–3 hours.

Can I give my puppy calming supplements?
Some natural calming aids may help, but it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before using any new product.

How long does it take to fully sleep train a puppy?
Most puppies are sleeping 6–8 hours by 3–4 months old, provided they receive consistent training and care.