Puppy Sleep: How Much and Where

Most 'hyperactive' or 'aggressive' puppy behaviour in the evening is simply overtiredness, and the fix is sleep rather than more exercise.

How much

18–20 hours a day at eight weeks, dropping gradually. If a puppy cannot settle, enforce a nap in a quiet, dim space.

Where

Near you for the first weeks. A crate or bed beside your bed reduces night crying dramatically and lets you hear toilet needs.

Night crying

The first few nights are hard. A hand on the crate, a warm cloth and a ticking clock help. Bringing a crying puppy into bed teaches crying to work — decide in advance what your rule is.

Do not wake a sleeping puppy to play

Especially with children. Teach that a sleeping dog is left alone; this prevents startle bites later.