How to Create a Soothing Bedtime Routine for Your Senior Dog
As dogs get older, their habits and sleeping patterns can start to change. Maybe they nap more during the day, but seem restless when it’s time to settle in for the night. You might notice pacing, panting, or even random barking at night, just when you’re hoping to relax. These behaviors are common in senior dogs, and while they might seem small at first, they can signal that your dog is having a harder time settling down at the end of the day.
A consistent bedtime routine can help. Dogs in their later years usually feel more settled when their evenings follow a familiar rhythm. Just like people, they feel more relaxed when they know what to expect. A quiet routine, such as a short walk, a gentle brushing, or settling into their favorite bed, can help them wind down and feel ready for sleep. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. What matters most is that their routine is calm, predictable, and comforting.
Routines offer more than just comfort. They give dogs a sense of control over their environment. For senior dogs, whose senses and energy levels may be changing, this kind of stability can be incredibly grounding. Knowing that certain things happen in a familiar order each evening helps them feel safe, even if other parts of their day feel less certain than they used to.
Start by slowing things down as the evening approaches. Turn off loud TV shows, lower the lights, and try to limit stimulating activity. Dogs are sensitive to energy shifts in the home. Even small changes in lighting and sound can help cue their body that it’s time to rest. Some dogs enjoy a light massage or quiet cuddle time after dinner. These quiet moments aren’t just calming, they’re also a nice way to stay connected with your pup, especially if your dog isn’t as playful or active as they used to be.
Don’t skip that final bathroom break. Even if your dog seems content on the couch, encouraging them to go outside one more time can help prevent nighttime pacing or accidents. Keep it short and simple. A slow walk in the yard or a few minutes outside to sniff around is often enough to signal the day is ending.
Where your dog sleeps matters too. Many aging pups are more comfortable with soft bedding that cushions their joints. Orthopedic beds or memory foam options can provide extra comfort, especially if your dog has difficulty getting up and down. If they usually sleep in your room but struggle with stairs, consider relocating their bed to a more accessible spot. A warm, quiet corner with a favorite blanket can make a big difference in how easily they settle.
For dogs experiencing restlessness in the evening, calming support may also be helpful. Many pet parents turn to products like CBD Dog Chews, which are formulated with pet-friendly ingredients and may offer support during transitions like bedtime. As with any change to your dog’s routine, consistency is key. A calming chew offered at the same time each night can become part of the bedtime ritual your dog comes to expect.
Feeding routines can also play a role. Older dogs may sleep more soundly if they eat dinner earlier in the evening, rather than right before bed. A heavy meal too late at night can cause discomfort or restlessness. If your dog is accustomed to eating closer to bedtime, a small treat at night can be a familiar and comforting way to signal that it’s time to settle in for the night.
In the meantime, there are small things you can try at home to help your dog feel more at ease. Familiar smells, a cozy sleeping spot, and a quiet environment can make bedtime feel more relaxing. You might find that soft background music, like classical or instrumental playlists, helps create a peaceful atmosphere. In fact, studies have shown that certain types of music can help reduce stress in dogs.
You can also take a look at the temperature and lighting in your dog’s sleeping space. Older dogs are often more sensitive to temperature changes, and a chilly floor or overly warm room might make it harder for them to relax. Soft lighting in the evening can also help create a more calming atmosphere, especially for dogs who may be experiencing some vision changes with age.
The most important part of a bedtime routine is consistency. It’s okay if things don’t go perfectly every night. What matters is that your dog begins to recognize the rhythm of the evening. The sound of your voice, the lights dimming, and the comfort of their bed. Over time, these cues become part of what helps them feel safe and relaxed.
Even small adjustments, such as an earlier dinner or a few minutes of brushing before bed, can make a significant difference. With time and patience, your dog may begin to look forward to the routine. And when they sleep better, you likely will too.
Comfort at night is all about helping your dog feel secure, loved, and at peace in their home.
