Why Is My Dog Anxious at Night?

Common reasons dogs get anxious at night

Separation is a big one. A dog that sleeps behind a closed door away from its people may whine and pace simply because bedtime means being alone. Noise is another: once the house goes quiet, distant fireworks, wildlife, traffic or a neighbor's dog stand out, and sound-sensitive dogs react.

Physical needs and discomfort matter too. A dog that needs to pee, is hungry, too hot or too cold, or has a sore back or joints may get up repeatedly. Itchy skin, an upset stomach and anything that causes pain often look like restlessness at night, which is why a sudden change deserves a vet visit rather than just a new bed. If a bed is part of the answer, our calming dog beds are one place to look.

Nighttime anxiety in senior dogs

Older dogs that sleep more during the day and then pace, wander, bark or stare at walls at night may be showing signs of canine cognitive dysfunction, sometimes called dog dementia or sundowning. Other signs include getting lost in familiar rooms, forgetting house training, changes in how they greet family, and increased anxiety.

There is no cure, but it can often be managed. Your vet will first look for other causes such as arthritis, vision or hearing loss, or illness, then may discuss diet changes, enrichment and treatment. A predictable daytime routine with walks, gentle play and puzzle toys can help an older dog sleep better at night.

How to calm an anxious dog at night

Build a wind-down routine: a sniffy walk or play session in the evening, dinner a few hours before bed, then quiet time. Take a last potty break just before you turn in. Let your dog sleep near you if that settles it, in a crate or on a bed in your room, which often fixes bedtime separation worry on its own. For a dog that likes to burrow, a raised-edge calming dog bed such as this round plush pet bed with an attached hooded blanket or a fluffy plush dog mat with a removable cover gives it a snug spot, though a bed will not fix pain or anxiety by itself. Our calming dog bed guide explains what to look for.

Run a fan or white noise to mask outside sounds, close curtains, and keep the room at a comfortable temperature. Offer a safe chew to help your dog settle. If it wakes you, keep the lights low and your voice calm, take it out if it may need to go, then return to bed without a long fuss.

Helping a dog with separation anxiety at night

If your dog only gets distressed when it cannot reach you, try moving its bed closer, then gradually back toward where you want it to sleep over several weeks, rewarding calm. A baby gate instead of a closed door lets it see and hear you, which is often enough.

During the day, practice short, calm separations so being apart becomes normal. Do not punish whining or pacing; it adds fear. If your dog panics, injures itself or cannot settle, talk to your vet or a certified behavior consultant.

When to see your vet

See your vet if nighttime restlessness is new, getting worse, or comes with other changes such as drinking or peeing more, panting at rest, limping, coughing, weight loss or confusion. Restlessness and panting can be signs of pain or illness, not just worry.

Your vet can examine your dog, may suggest tests, and can discuss treatment, including whether any medication or sleep support is appropriate. Do not give human sleep aids, which can cause agitation and other problems in dogs.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.