Is your dog whining at night? It’s a problem many pet parents face, and it can be incredibly frustrating and worrying. That whining is your dog’s way of telling you something is wrong.
Finding out why your dog is whining is the first step toward finding a solution. The reasons can range from medical issues to behavioral problems, so it’s important to pay attention to other symptoms and behaviors.
This article will cover some common reasons for nighttime whining in dogs and what you can do to help your furry friend (and get a good night’s sleep yourself).
Ruling Out Medical Causes
Before you start looking into behavioral reasons for your dog’s nighttime whining, it’s important to make sure there isn’t a medical issue at play.
Pain and Discomfort
Whining is a common way for dogs to communicate that they’re in pain. There are a number of conditions that might be more bothersome at night, including arthritis, nerve irritation, or an injury. If your dog seems overly sensitive about their paws being touched, that could also be a sign of pain.
The best thing to do is schedule a checkup with your veterinarian to see if pain is the issue. The vet can do a thorough exam to rule out infections or injuries that might be causing discomfort.
Digestive Issues
Sometimes, digestive upset can be the culprit behind nighttime whining. If your dog is experiencing bloating or other digestive problems, it could be causing them discomfort and leading to the whining.
In these cases, you might need to make some changes to your dog’s diet. A vet might recommend a bland diet to help soothe their stomach or suggest switching to a higher-quality food that’s easier to digest.
Addressing Behavioral Reasons
If you’ve ruled out medical causes for your dog’s nighttime whining, it’s time to consider behavioral causes.
Anxiety and Separation Anxiety
Anxiety, especially separation anxiety, is a frequent reason why dogs whine at night. They may feel anxious when left alone or when they can’t be near you.
To ease an anxious dog, create a safe and comfortable sleeping space for them. This might include:
- A bed or blanket they know and love
- Calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers
Boredom and Lack of Stimulation
A dog who hasn’t had enough exercise or mental stimulation during the day may be restless and whiny at night.
Make sure your dog gets at least 30 minutes of activity during the day. You can also add enrichment activities to their routine, such as:
- Puzzle toys
- Training sessions
- Interactive games
A tired dog is often a quiet dog, so aim to tire them out before bedtime!
The Role of Training and Routine
Sometimes, nighttime whining can be traced back to a dog’s training — or lack thereof.
Lack of Training
If your dog’s training has been inconsistent or inadequate, that may be contributing to the whining. To address this, you’ll want to set up some clear rules and boundaries, and then use positive reinforcement when your dog displays the behaviors you’re looking for.
For instance, if you want your dog to sleep quietly in their crate, reward them with a treat or praise when they do so.
Establishing a Consistent Routine
Dogs thrive on predictability, and a solid daily routine can reduce anxiety and encourage restful sleep. Try to feed, walk, and play with your dog at the same times each day.
You can also create a calming bedtime routine. A leisurely walk, a gentle massage, or some quiet playtime can help your dog wind down before it’s time to sleep.
Puppy Whining: What to Expect
If you’ve recently brought home a puppy, some whining is normal. Your puppy may be lonely, may need to go to the bathroom, or may just be getting used to a new place.
Try not to reinforce the whining by giving your puppy attention when they cry. It’s better to reward them when they’re quiet.
Make sure all of your puppy’s basic needs are met. They should have a comfortable place to sleep, fresh water, and easy access to a potty area.
Conclusion
If you aren’t sure why your dog is whining at night, or if home remedies don’t seem to help, talk to your vet or a certified dog trainer. They can figure out if there’s a medical or behavioral issue behind the problem.
Dealing with nighttime whining takes patience, consistency, and an effort to understand what your dog needs. By ruling out medical problems, addressing behavioral issues, and giving your dog the right amount of training and stimulation, you can help them—and you—get a good night’s sleep.