Yorkshire Terriers are a popular breed of companion dogs known for their affectionate nature. However, their clingy behavior can make it difficult for owners to get a good night’s sleep. Fortunately, there are ways to help a Yorkie sleep through the night without resorting to letting them take over the bed.
It’s important to note that each Yorkie is different and may have unique sleeping habits and preferences. Understanding your dog’s personality and trying different strategies can help you find the best way to get them to sleep soundly. In this article, we will explore some tips and tricks on how to get a Yorkie to sleep through the night.
Key Takeaways
- Yorkshire Terriers are companion dogs known for their affectionate nature.
- Understanding your dog’s personality is key to helping them sleep through the night.
- There are several strategies you can try to help your Yorkie sleep soundly.
How to Get a Yorkie to Sleep Through the Night
Yorkies are known to love sleeping, but just like humans, they can suffer from sleeplessness due to various reasons. Here are some tips to help your Yorkie sleep through the night:
- Establish a routine. Yorkies thrive on routine, so establish a regular bedtime, and stick to it. Avoid letting them nap for more than an hour or two during the day to ensure they are tired at night.
- Provide a comfortable sleeping environment. Make sure your Yorkie has a comfortable bed, and the room is quiet, dark, and cool. Consider using a white noise machine to block out any noises that may disturb your pet’s sleep.
- Exercise your Yorkie. Yorkies are an active breed, and they need daily exercise to burn off excess energy. A tired dog is more likely to sleep soundly at night.
- Avoid feeding your Yorkie late at night. Feeding your Yorkie late at night can cause digestive issues, leading to discomfort and restlessness. If you must feed your Yorkie at night, do so at least two hours before bedtime.
- Address any underlying health issues. Yorkies with underlying health issues like arthritis, kidney problems, diabetes, or parasitic infections may suffer from insomnia. Consult with your vet to address any underlying health issues that may be affecting your pet’s sleep.
It’s also essential to be aware of common sleep conditions that can affect Yorkies and take the necessary steps to manage them. For example, if your Yorkie suffers from sleep apnea, consult with your vet to find the appropriate treatment. If your pet suffers from REM Behavior Disorder, consider providing a safer sleeping environment to prevent accidents.
By following these tips and addressing any underlying health issues, you can help your Yorkie get the restful sleep they need to be happy and healthy.
How to Get a Yorkie to Sleep Through the Night
Getting a Yorkie to sleep through the night can be a challenge for many dog owners. However, with a few simple steps, you can help your furry friend get the restful sleep they need. Here are 10 effective ways to get your Yorkie to sleep soundly throughout the night:
1. Rule out Health Problems
If your Yorkie is having trouble sleeping, the first step is to rule out any underlying health problems. Take your dog to the vet for a proper examination to check for physical ailments that might be keeping your pet awake at night. The vet can also diagnose suspected sleep apnea. If your dog is diagnosed with a health problem, it’s crucial to follow the necessary treatments. This will help restore your pet’s nighttime slumber while also letting you sleep peacefully.
2. Go for the Last Potty Break of the Day
Make sure to take your Yorkie out for its last potty break of the night before bedtime. This will reduce the chances of your pet having to eliminate in the middle of the night. You should also start reducing your dog’s water intake hours before bedtime to prevent emergency potty trips.
3. Crate Training is the Answer
Crate training is one of the most effective ways to keep your Yorkie asleep at night. The small space of a dog crate mimics the cramped spaces that wild dogs seek in caves, bushes, and rocks to hide from predators while they sleep. However, crate training takes a lot of patience. Start with familiarization and building your dog’s trust in the crate. Once your dog realizes that the crate isn’t harmful, you can start locking the crate door. Crate training and potty training go hand in hand. It prevents your Yorkie from having accidents at home while keeping it asleep as much as possible.
4. Tuck Your Used Shirt Inside the Crate
If your Yorkie is suffering from separation anxiety, your used shirt will help a lot. You can use it as a cover for your dog’s bed. Your scent stuck on the shirt will give a sense of comfort to the canine since it feels like you’re around. You can also give your Yorkie a safety blanket for added comfort. And if your pet tends to be anxious, you can drape a towel over the crate.
5. Keep the Sleeping Area Quiet
Keeping your dog’s sleeping area quiet and calm will help the pooch have better sleep. Place your Yorkie’s bed on a corner with minimal foot traffic. It should also be away from doors that will alert your pooch in case someone opens it. Moreover, you should also watch over the mood you project at night. Dogs can pick up our vibe, which will reflect on their behavior. If you want a Yorkie that sleeps through the night, you should keep the evening hours calm and relaxed.
6. Burn Your Yorkie’s Energy
Your Yorkie won’t stay awake at night if it doesn’t have the energy to do so. If you notice that your pet is active and energetic an hour before bedtime, consider giving in a short playtime. Brain games will also help tire out your hyper dog. However, do this at least 30 minutes before the scheduled bedtime. This will give your dog a short period to tone down and slide into sleep. Keep your Yorkie active during the day. Around 30 minutes of exercise would help keep the doggo stimulated. Also, 10-minute playtime sessions repeated throughout the day will help prepare your pet for bedtime.
7. Provide Soothing Scents
Soothing scents help a lot in getting a puppy to sleep all night. You can purchase appeasing pheromones, which mimic the scent of the mother dog. This will help a nervous pup relax and fall asleep. You can try brands like Adaptil, Sentry, and Comfort Zone. They make pheromone diffusers, which you can place on your pet’s sleeping area.
8. Play Calming Sounds
Aside from calming scents, you can also play soothing music for your dog. There are many compiled audio clips online that you can access for free. Start with calming classical music. This helps a lot in toning down an energetic pup and sending it to sleep. Moreover, the sound you’re playing will serve as white noise, so your dog won’t feel alone. It’s effective for canines suffering from anxiety.
9. Stick to a Strict Bedtime Schedule
Canines, including Yorkies, are beings of habit. They thrive on a routine, so always send them to bed at a specific time. Follow potty break schedules religiously. After a few weeks, your dog will pick up the pace. It will soon have better, and longer sleep at night without bothering you.
Final Words
Getting a Yorkie to sleep through the night requires patience and proper training. Crate training is an effective way to keep them asleep. Understanding their sleep patterns is crucial, and disruptions can lead to restless nights. Adult Yorkies sleep around 13-18 hours a day, and the time they spend awake depends on many factors. With the right approach, your pooch can become independent and sleep soundly through the night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some tips for getting a puppy to sleep through the night?
- Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it.
- Provide a comfortable sleeping area for your puppy.
- Limit food and water intake before bedtime.
- Make sure your puppy gets plenty of exercise during the day.
- Consider crate training your puppy.
How many hours of sleep do Yorkies need?
Yorkies need around 13 to 18 hours of sleep per day, including afternoon naps. However, as they get older, they tend to sleep less.
What is the best sleeping arrangement for a Yorkie?
The best sleeping arrangement for a Yorkie is in a comfortable bed or crate in a quiet and dark room. Some Yorkies may prefer to sleep with their owners, but it’s important to establish boundaries and not disrupt your own sleep.
What are some common reasons why a puppy might not sleep through the night?
- Separation anxiety
- Hunger or thirst
- Needing to go potty
- Health issues
- Lack of exercise
What are some natural remedies to help a dog sleep through the night?
- Lavender essential oil
- Chamomile tea
- Valerian root
- CBD oil
- Melatonin supplements (consult with a vet first)
What is the average age when Yorkies start sleeping through the night?
Yorkie puppies may take several months to sleep through the night without needing to go potty or eat. However, with consistent training and routine, most Yorkies should be able to sleep through the night by the time they are 6 months old.
