If your dog is pacing the house at 2 a.m., whining, or constantly waking you up throughout the night, you’re not alone. Many pet owners deal with dogs that struggle to settle down after dark. While occasional restlessness is normal, frequent nighttime wakeups may signal that something is disrupting your dog’s sleep.

Understanding why dogs can’t sleep at night is the first step toward helping them get the rest they need.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Dogs sleep much more than humans. On average:

• Adult dogs: 12–14 hours per day
• Puppies: 18–20 hours per day
• Senior dogs: Up to 18 hours per day
  

Most of this sleep happens at night with naps during the day. If your dog is consistently awake and restless overnight, it may be caused by behavioral, environmental, or health-related factors.

Common Reasons Dogs Stay Awake at Night

1. Not Enough Physical or Mental Exercise

Dogs with excess energy often struggle to relax when bedtime arrives. This is especially common with high-energy breeds like Border Collies, Huskies, and Australian Shepherds.

If your dog spends most of the day resting and gets only a short walk, they may simply not be tired enough to sleep.

What helps:

• Longer evening walks
• Interactive toys or puzzles
• Training sessions or playtime before bed
  

Mental stimulation can be just as important as physical activity when it comes to helping dogs unwind.

2. Anxiousness or Stress

Dogs experiencing anxiety often have difficulty settling down at night. Anxiousness in pets has become increasingly common. Veterinary insurance data shows anxiety-related claims have risen by more than 90% since 2019. Common triggers include:

• Separation anxiety
• Loud noises (storms, fireworks)
• Changes in routine
• Moving to a new home
  

They may even sense your stress. An anxious dog may pace, pant, whine, or constantly check on their owner during the night. 

Some pet owners explore natural calming solutions such as creating a consistent bedtime routine, using calming pheromones, or incorporating plant-based wellness supplements that support relaxation.

3. Aging and Cognitive Changes

Senior dogs may experience changes similar to dementia in humans, often referred to as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD).

Symptoms can include:

• Nighttime wandering
• Confusion
• Increased vocalization
• Disrupted sleep cycles
  

Older dogs may simply feel more restless or uncomfortable overnight.

Providing extra comfort, a predictable routine, and supportive wellness products may help older dogs feel more relaxed and settled at night.

4. Pain or Physical Discomfort

Dogs dealing with pain or inflammation may have trouble finding a comfortable position to sleep.

Conditions that commonly affect nighttime rest include:

• Arthritis
• Joint stiffness
• Injury recovery
• Hip dysplasia
  

You may notice your dog shifting positions frequently, getting up often, or avoiding lying down altogether.

If pain is suspected, a veterinarian should evaluate your dog to determine the best treatment plan.

5. Diet or Late-Night Feeding

What your dog eats, and when they eat, can influence sleep quality.

Late meals may cause:

• Digestive discomfort
• Increased bathroom needs overnight
• Energy spikes before bed
  

Most dogs benefit from their final meal several hours before bedtime.

6. Inconsistent Routines

Dogs thrive on routine. If bedtime varies widely from day to day, your dog may struggle to understand when it’s time to wind down.

Establishing a consistent schedule helps signal that nighttime is for rest.

A simple routine might include:

• Evening walk
• Calm playtime
• Final bathroom break
• Lights out at the same time each night
  
  

Ways to Help Your Dog Sleep Better

If your dog struggles with nighttime restlessness, a few simple changes may help.

Increase daytime activity

Regular exercise and mental stimulation help burn off excess energy and support healthy sleep cycles.

Create a calming bedtime environment

Lower lights, reduce noise, and provide a comfortable sleeping area.

Stick to a consistent routine

Dogs feel more secure when their daily schedule stays predictable.

Explore natural wellness support

Some pet owners incorporate plant-based wellness products, such as hemp-derived CBD for dogs, into their dog’s evening routine to help support relaxation and overall balance. When sourced responsibly and used appropriately, these products may help promote a calmer nighttime environment for some pets.

As always, consult your veterinarian before introducing new supplements to your dog’s routine.

When to Talk to Your Veterinarian

Occasional restlessness is normal, but persistent sleep problems may signal an underlying issue.

Contact your veterinarian if your dog shows:

• Frequent nighttime waking
• Sudden behavior changes
• Signs of pain or discomfort
• Excessive panting or pacing
• Confusion in senior dogs
  

Addressing the root cause can help restore your dog’s healthy sleep patterns.

Helping Your Dog Rest Easier

Just like humans, dogs need quality sleep to stay healthy and happy. Whether the issue stems from anxiety, excess energy, aging, or discomfort, identifying the cause can help you find the right solution.

With a supportive routine, plenty of activity, and a calming nighttime environment, many dogs can return to peaceful nights, and their owners can finally get some rest, too.