Is there any thing more exciting than adopting a new puppy? It is such happy time for a family. Watching their playful messing about, exploring new sights and smells and snuggling up in a blanket to take a nap brings a smile to even the most cold-hearted face. There is one aspect of puppies however which can make life a little difficult and that is trying to get them to sleep through the night. Those little furry balls of energy want to play, play, play at all times of the day and don’t seem to worry or care if you have work the next morning.

Just like you and I, your puppy requires a good amount of sleep to recharge its little bodies. When most pet owners think of the fundamentals of raising a dog, items like dog food, fresh water and dog crates immediately come to mind. If that’s all it took to raise a happy little puppy, then why is your dog ready to go, running around the house and barking in the middle of the night? The reason is it spends all day napping while you are out of the house at work or running errands.

You need to tire it out before bed. It sounds a lot harder than it really is. You need to take it for long walks, play a long game of fetch or simply keep him busy enough that it is all tuckered out and doesn’t want to play anymore. Now you need to make sure it doesn’t fall asleep before you are ready to. If the dog is sleeping for a good two hours before you plan on going to bed, then there is a good possibility the dog will be up two hours ahead of you and ready to get the day started.

Another problem you’ll more than likely experience is your puppy having to do its business in the middle of the night. The fact is puppies eliminate more frequently than adult dogs. If your puppy goes starts barking around 3 a.m., there is a strong chance it needs to go outside and do its business. While the idea of climbing out of bed, getting dressed and going outside never sounds fun, it really isn’t that bad considering the alternative of a dog up all night crying and barking because it had an accident in its crate.

Also remember that your middle of the night trip outside is not a time for play. It is strictly business. Once the dog "goes", praise it, and return it directly to the crate to get back to sleep. Do not play, snuggle or hang out. If you do the dog can get the wrong idea and stay awake because it wants to play.