Where should your puppy sleep on the first night?
Deciding where your puppy should sleep on their first night can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. There’s no single right answer, only what works best for you and your puppy.
Below are a few common approaches, each with their own benefits and challenges. Take your time, trust your instincts, and remember: if something doesn’t work, you can always adjust. Puppies are resilient, and so are you!
1: In a separate room
Your puppy sleeps in a crate or bed in a different room from you.
Pros:
Encourages independence
Helps establish long-term boundaries
May help puppies become comfortable sleeping independently over time
Cons:
Puppy may cry or bark
Harder to monitor toilet needs
Can feel isolating for both of you
Tips:
Create a cozy, den-like space by covering the crate with a blanket
Use a heartbeat toy or white noise
Be consistent but compassionate
2: In your bedroom, in their own bed or crate
Your puppy sleeps in your room, but not on your bed.
Pros:
Offers comfort and reassurance
Easier to hear toilet cues
Reduces first-night anxiety
Cons:
May be harder to transition later
Puppy may still cry or seek closeness
Tips:
Place bed near yours
Gradually move it away over time
3: On your bed
Your puppy sleeps directly on your bed with you.
Pros:
Maximum comfort and bonding
May help puppy settle quickly
Easy to monitor overnight
Cons:
Can create long-term habits that are hard to undo
Not ideal for toilet training
May disrupt your sleep
Tips:
Use a waterproof mattress protector
Keep a lead nearby for toilet trips
Final Thoughts:
No matter what you choose, the first night is just that, the first of many. Puppies are adaptable, and routines can evolve. If things don’t go to plan, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. You’re learning together and you don’t have to do that alone.
Sources:
• PDSA – First day and night with your puppy
• Blue Cross – How to get your puppy to sleep through the night