Do puppies get hungry at night
Why Is My Puppy So Hyper? 4 Tips for a Calm Puppy
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Your puppy seems to have boundless energy, right?
Sure, hes also sleeping for quite some time every day. But boy, when hes awake, those zoomies are out of control!
Does that sound familiar?
Well, that describes my experience with my Mini Poodle Baloos puppyhood pretty accurately. My goodness, his energy was just insane. Ive literally never seen a dog this hyper in my whole life!
Well, it has luckily improved a lot. But back then, he was barely able to sit down, let alone lie down and relax
Thank god for crates!
In this article youll learn why your puppy is so hyper. Plus, youll also get 4 tips and a free pdf to get your puppy to calm down.
One more thing before we get started: If youre serious about getting your puppy to calm down, Ive got something for you!
Ive just released the Hyper Puppy Training 101 that includes all my knowledge of hyper puppies and how to calm them down. Stop losing sleep (and your sanity) over all that hyperactivity and get the Training Guide now!
Why Is My Puppy So Hyper?
Aww, your new puppy is so cute!
That is, until he starts zooming all over your house and just cant seem to settle down.
Wondering why your puppy is hyper all the time? Here are a few reasons why your puppy is so energetic.
Puppies Cant Control Their Energy Levels
Just like kids, puppies wont be able to control their energy levels. When they are very young especially, everything will be super exciting for your puppy. After all, theyve never experienced any of this before!
For the first year or so, your puppy will have a lot of energy. As he gets older, and as you continue to train him, hell start to settle down.
But until then, you can expect your puppy to be energetic and enthusiastic about, well, everything.
Lack of Mental Stimulation
Its not enough to just physically exercise your dog. You need to make sure his brain is getting some work too!
A lot of the time, puppies get hyper because theyre bored. Hes making his own entertainment by running around and being over active!
There are a lot of great ways you can make sure your dog is getting enough mental stimulation. More on that later.
Overtired
It seems weird, but being overtired can actually make your dog hyper. Even though it seems like logically your puppy would crash completely if hes overtired, the opposite might happen and he could have an even harder time settling down.
Think about human toddlers or kids. When they get overtired, they might have tantrums or avoid going to bed by hiding or running around the house.
Just like them, when puppies get overtired they lose control of themselves and start acting out.
Not sure if your puppy might be overtired? Here are 10 symptoms of an overtired puppy, and what you can do about it.
Overstimulated
Just like being overtired, if your puppy gets overstimulated, he might start acting out and getting hyper as well.
For puppies, the whole world is exciting and stimulating! Theres so much to see, sniff at and interact with. That can become pretty overwhelming.
If your pup had a long day and met a lot of new dogs or people, he might be overstimulated.
Make sure to check out my article about how to calm an overstimulated dog to learn more on that topic.
Your Behavior
Dogs are super emotional animals, and very intuitive when it comes to their owners feelings. Your dog is surprisingly good at picking up on what youre feeling!
And, depending on what youre feeling and how youre dealing with it, that might be the reason for your dogs zoomies.
If your dog suddenly starts acting hyper, you might want to consider what your own behavior has been like. If youve been running around the house or being loud, that might be whats encouraging your puppys energy!
I know that this is a big trigger for Baloo. If Im anything but calm and relaxed, hell get nervous. Can be a little annoying sometimes
How Do You Calm Down a Hyper Puppy?
Now that you know some of the reasons why your puppy might be hyper, lets talk about some ways you can get him to settle down!
This is a brief overview of how you can help your hyper puppy. For a more in depth look, here are 13 ways to tire out a puppy.
Set Up a Daily Routine
Dogs operate best when they have a schedule. Knowing what to expect and when will eliminate uncertainty in your puppys life. It will also help you stay consistent with training and brain games for your dog!
As your dog adjusts to his new daily routine, youll likely find that hes less hyper. This is because now he knows when its time to play, and when its time to settle down and relax!
Speaking of routine, thats also one of the most important things that helped me get Baloo from being super hyper to finally calming down:
Enforce Regular Naps
If your puppy gets hyper because hes overtired, then making sure hes napping regularly is an awesome way to keep him from getting hyper.
Puppies need a lot of sleep anyway. Just like human babies, their bodies and brains are growing, and sleep helps them do that healthily!
You can expect your puppy to spend 18 to 20 hours a day sleeping.
Help him make sure that hes getting enough sleep to develop properly and stay calm but enforce a nap schedule. Your new daily routine will be able to help you do that!
Make Sure He Gets Enough Mental Stimulation
If your dog gets hyper because hes not being mentally stimulated enough, its time to incorporate more brain games into his daily routine! Luckily, there are a lot of great ways you can give your puppy some mental stimulation.
Try teaching your puppy some new tricks, or play games that make your dog think. Getting your puppy to work for his food with a food puzzle is another great way to keep your dogs brain engaged.
Mental stimulation can be super fun for you too. Plus, youll probably be impressed by how smart your dog is!
Mental stimulation can also be a wonderful training tool if used correctly. Check out Braintrainingfordogs to learn how to train your dog to be the best dog he can be by using mental stimulation! Or have a look at Dogpackrs review first to see if its a fit for you and your dog!
Stay Calm
Since dogs can pick up on our emotions and energy so easily, its important to remember to be calm. Not only will this help your dog stay generally calm, it will also teach your dog to keep a cool head during intense situations.
When you have visitors, for example, if you answer the door super enthusiastically, that will teach your dog its okay to bark and jump all over people when they come in.
On the other hand, answering the door calmly will teach your dog that even though its exciting to have visitors, its important to stay relaxed.
This will apply to basically every situation in your dogs life. It will take time and consistency. But both you and your dog will learn to stay relaxed even in exciting situations.
Related Questions
Now lets look at a few related questions that will help you understand your hyper puppy even better.
Will My Puppy Ever Calm Down?
Your puppy sleeps a lot, but during his waking moments hes going non-stop!
It might seem like desperately trying to herd your puppy and getting him to settle down is just what your life is now. It seems impossible to imagine your puppy will ever calm down!
The truth is that as your puppy ages, and as you continue training him, hell start calming down. Everything will eventually stop being so new and exciting, and you and your puppy will both start to relax.
Its important to remember, though, that some dogs are naturally more energetic than others. Even though your puppy will calm down as he ages, depending on his breed he may continue to be a very energetic dog well into adulthood!
Baloo, for instance, has still much more energy than many other dogs. But if channeled correctly (for instance through Agility training), hes happily snoozing for the rest of the day.
Why Is My Puppy So Hyper at Night?
If your puppy is getting super hyper at night, there are a few reasons why that may be. One surprising reason might actually be his food.
If your dog isnt eating the right kinds of food, that might be whats making him hyper. Take a look at the AKCs tips for choosing the right food for your dog.
You might also want to consider feeding your daw raw or home cooked food. Here are some great dog food delivery services for fresh cooked food.
Other than that you should also consider what time youre feeding your dog. Feeding him too late in the evening could be whats making his energy levels spike.
Other culprits for your dogs late night hyperactivity could be that hes not getting enough mental and physical stimulation, or hes experiencing some separation anxiety if hes away from you at night.
Why Is My Puppy So Hyper All of a Sudden?
Does it seem like your puppy is hyper all of a sudden? There are a few reasons why that may be.
It could be that your dog is uncomfortable and itchy and trying to get rid of the feeling. It could also be because hes bored, or feeling overwhelmed.
For more information, check out my previous article about why your dog is so hyper all of a sudden, as well as some tips and tricks to help him settle down.
Why Is My Puppy So Hyper and Aggressive?
As your puppy ages, he might go through a phase where he starts biting or jumping at you and other people or animals. If you leave this behavior unchecked, it could grow into a problem as he gets older.
A lot of the time, this behavior might be your dog acting out because hes overtired. If thats the case, learn more about overtired puppy biting.
If youre trying to curb your puppys biting, here are some tips and tricks to stop your puppys biting habit for good.
Conclusion
Puppies are so cute, but when theyre up and moving it can feel exhausting. Sometimes your puppys hyperactivity is just because he cant control his energy levels. Sometimes it stems from a problem, like being overtired or overstimulated.
No matter what the reason is, there are ways you can help manage your puppys energy levels. Setting up a routine is one great way, as is enforcing naps and making sure he gets enough physical and mental stimulation.
Even if your puppy is just naturally energetic and maintains his energy as he grows up, at least youll have ways of managing it!
Dont forget to get your Hyper Puppy Training 101 today to get your puppy to calm down the quickest way possible.
Is Your Puppy Crying At Night? 4 Common Causes & What To Do
No matter how many times youve cared for an adult dog, no one can prepare you for what the first few nights with your puppy are like. While puppies bring happiness and fun to your life, the nighttime can be difficult. Not all puppies will cry at night, but a good majority of them will.
Of course, this isnt going to last the entirety of your time with your new pup, but dont be surprised when the first few nights are spent listening to your pup whine from the crate. Puppies crying during the night is to be expected (for a while). It can be a stressful transition for a new pup, so we must show them lots of grace and patience.
Keep reading to learn more about the common reasons why your puppy might be crying and ways you can help them.
Why Do Puppies Cry at Night?
When you bring your pup home, most experts recommend beginning crate training overnight. This is so you can help build up your pups confidence and create a safe space within their crate. The goal is to get your puppy to enjoy crate time, but that can be quite the challenge.
We love our dogs so much. Sometimes, hearing your pup cry through the night can feel more distressing for you than for the puppy. In many ways, your pup crying is their way of trying to communicate with you. Its difficult to know what your puppy needs, but there are a few common causes for your puppy to cry at night.
1. They Need To Use the Bathroom
Puppies have small bladders and often need to use the bathroom every few hours. This means that we will need to wake up in the middle of the night to take our pups outside sometimes, their cries signify to you that they need to use the bathroom.
In general, dogs try to avoid peeing in their crate. As such, puppies tend to cry out so that we can help escort them outside for a midnight bathroom break. If they know they have to go but dont want to use their crate, they will try to vocalize their need to you, no matter what time it is.
2. They Are Hungry or Thirsty
Another reason that your puppy is crying is that they are hungry or need water. Puppies might have a unique feeding schedule that isnt as cut-and-dry as their adult canine peers twice-a-day dining arrangements.
Meal schedules tend to depend on the breed size in question. For example, until three months old, young toy breeds will need more meals (around four to six) than large breed puppies (who eat three to four meals).
Younger puppies might nibble on their food continuously throughout the day whenever their energy fluctuates, which means a late-night snack is quite possible. Even the slightest drink of water before bed could result in the need to pee only a few hours later.
3. They Might Be Scared or Nervous
Especially during the first few nights of having your puppy at home with you, they might cry due to nerves. Its the first time they have been away from their mom and littermates, which can result in some loneliness. Plus, if they know you are nearby, they might think that crying will bring your attention to them (which we all know to be true).
Up until now, your puppy has always had a littermate nearby to play with or snuggle up with. And you could let your puppy sleep in your bed with you if you so choose to, but crate training really does help to build up their confidence! If you ever want to have a night to yourself in bed, crate training will come in clutch.
4. They May Not Be Feeling Well
Another reason for a crying pup could be that they are not feeling well. Puppies can get sick or have upset stomachs, especially if they are nervous or changing foods and routines. It might not be more serious than an upset stomach, but if your puppy is in pain or discomfort, it might be something worth bringing up with their vet.
Puppies are prone to getting sick, especially before they are able to complete all of their vaccinations. They are susceptible to intestinal worms, viruses, vomiting and diarrhea, and growing pains, all of which might keep your pup up at night in pain. In this case, its best to contact their veterinarian as soon as their office is open.
If you are worried in the middle of the night and seeking answers, you can also sign-up with AskVet and consult with one of our Certified Pet Lifestyle Coaches (CPLC).
Is Ignoring My Pup Recommended?
You might have heard that ignoring your puppys cries is the best way to help them get over whatever issue they are having. But thats not always the case. What if your pup needs to use the bathroom? Or could they use a little bit of water? You want to build up their confidence, not teach them that you arent there to be helpful.
Of course, once you make sure all of their needs are met, closing your eyes and attempting to sleep might be the best course of action. It is true that they will tire themselves out, but ensuring they arent in distress before moving on can strengthen your bond and communication with each other.
How Can You Help a Crying Puppy
Finding ways to help comfort your dog in the crate and through the night will reduce the crying. Many methods could be used to crate train, and help soothe your puppy through the night, but not all will work for your dog. Every dog is unique, and you have to learn what brings them comfort so that you can help build their confidence.
You might realize your dog thrives when laying on blankets and pillows, so you add in some extra comfy cushioning to help make a little nest. Whatever your pup needs, you will likely be on top of it. Youre a pet parent now, and that means anything goes for your baby!
Take Them Outside for a Potty Break
The first thing to try if your puppy is crying in the middle of the night is to take them outside for a bathroom break. Its very likely that your pup needs to use the bathroom. They can only hold so much in their bladders, so a few trips every night is to be expected.
Offer Them a Comfort Toy
Some puppies really bond with a soft plush toy. Whether its because it simulates having one of their littermates with them or if its comfortable, having a comfort toy can soothe your pup at bedtime.
Over time, this toy will pick up your dogs smell which can bring an additional level of comfort to your dog. You can try bringing this toy around when your pup settles for naps throughout the day and have the toy snuggle up against them.
Put a Piece of Your Clothing in the Crate
Your puppy will bond with you almost immediately. As soon as they recognize that you are the one providing food, water, love, play, and snuggles, you will become a source of comfort. If they cant have you every night to be with, the next best thing is a piece of clothing that has your scent on it: Extra points if its fluffy and soft!
Your scent in their crate can bring a sense of peace to your pup and encourage them to fall asleep. Sometimes their cries signify that they want your attention, but in the middle of the night, thats not always what you are willing to give. But a piece of clothing from your closet or something youve recently worn will do the trick!
Answers for the Whole Family
If you are looking for answers or suggestions on how to help this issue, consider signing up with AskVet so you can ask any question you might have.
AskVets Certified Pet Lifestyle Coaches are here to help guide you through puppyhood, coming up with behavior goals and helping to monitor any health changes in your pup. Being a new puppy parent is hard work, and not everyone gets that. Once you have a puppy, your whole life becomes dedicated to giving them whatever it is they need, and hearing them cry can hurt your heart.
When you sign up for AskVet, you can chat with a veterinarian or CPLC 24/7 no wait time needed. Whether you have a question about your puppys first tooth falling out or your goldfish looking a tad tired, AskVet has the experts with the answers.
Sources:
Housetraining Puppies & Dogs | American Humane
Canine Separation Anxiety: Strategies For Treatment And Management | NCBI
Crate Training Your Dog | Brown University
How to crate train your dog or puppy | The Humane Society
What to Do if Your Puppy Keeps Going Potty in the Crate | AKC
Feeding Your Dog: How Often Should Dogs Eat And How Much? | AKC
