My Dog Barks All Night — What Should I Do?

A dog who barks all night can become a problem. Not only will it stop your family resting well, it could also cause conflicts with the neighbours. Puppies, adult dogs and seniors can all show this behaviour, but scolding them isn't the solution.

If your dog won't stop barking, you need to identify the causes to know what to do and fix the problem effectively. Find out the main reasons below!

Why Do Dogs Bark During the Night?

Barking is a mechanism used by dogs of any age to communicate, especially with humans, since they rarely communicate with each other by barking. Bearing this in mind, why does your dog bark so much at night?

If it's a recurring behaviour, here are some of the reasons:

• They're in heat
• They're cold
• They have pain or physical discomfort
• They're bored
• They're not comfortable
• They're hungry or thirsty
• They're stressed
• They're anxious

If it's an occasional bark, your dog may bark on sensing an intruder or another animal in the house. What's more, a dog who doesn't rest during the night will show irritability and low spirits the following day.

How to Stop a Dog Barking All Night?

Here are some solutions if your adult or senior dog barks a lot during the night:

See the Vet

Since this is a sudden but consistent behaviour, you need to rule out your dog suffering from an illness or an injury. What's more, senior dogs may start suffering from arthritis, joint pain and other discomforts needing medical attention.

On another note, stress and anxiety also need diagnosing by your vet, along with the causes and possible treatment.

Neutering

A male or female dog in heat will be more restless during the night, especially if they sense a companion of the opposite sex nearby. They'll bark to express their distress and try to get out of your house. To prevent this, it's advisable to ask your vet about neutering options.

Meet Their Needs

If your dog feels hungry, thirsty, cold or hot, they'll be uncomfortable and won't be able to sleep. Every night, make sure they've eaten, drunk, and that their bed is suitable for the time of year.

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A Safe Environment

During celebration dates, it's common for your dog to bark during the night if they sense strange sounds, such as fireworks and music. Keep an eye on their behaviour and ask your vet about a product to give them calm, such as ambient pheromones and relaxing tablets.

A Change in Routine

If you've moved house or changed the spot where your dog's bed is (for them, sleeping in the dining room isn't the same as sleeping in the garden), consider reversing this change, or making their spot more pleasant.

What's more, if you used to let your dog sleep with you and now block their access to the bedroom, it's also normal for them to bark or whine during the night. In this case, you just need to wait for them to get used to the new routine.

Entertainment

If your dog spends all day alone at home with little access to stimulation, such as toys to keep them entertained, during the night they'll be full of energy and try to distract themselves through barking.

Give them toys, take them out for walks, and invest time sharing with them once you get home; otherwise, boredom could turn into compulsive behaviours.

Why Does Your Puppy Bark All Night?

It's normal for your newly adopted puppy to bark all night, but you should correct this behaviour in time to stop them getting used to it. Puppies bark during their first few days in a new home, since they miss their mother and littermates, on top of not feeling safe in a place with unfamiliar smells and sounds.

If your puppy barks a lot at night, it means they're trying to get your attention to get some company.

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How to Quieten a Dog Who Barks a Lot?

For a dog to feel calm, and also tired enough to fall asleep more easily, it's advisable to follow this advice:

• Training during the day. Taking long walks, letting them play with other dogs, or doing sport with your dog will help them burn off their excess energy and sleep more peacefully.
• Comfort. Give them a comfortable bed and a cuddly toy they can lean against. It will help them feel more comfortable and safe.
• Games. Before bedtime, play with your dog to tire them out — they'll fall asleep faster. Walking, playing fetch, or finding edible rewards are ways of keeping them active.
• Imitate the mother. Some puppies sleep better if you place an analogue clock with a ticking sound in their bed, since it reminds them of their mother's heartbeat.
• An early dinner. Your dog's last meal should be 2 hours before sleeping — this way, you'll prevent them needing the toilet or experiencing indigestion. It's advisable to take them out for a "last pee" before bed.
• Stay firm. If you go to your dog or puppy's bed every time they bark or cry a lot, they'll never stop doing it. Commit to putting up with this inconvenience for a few days — only this way will they learn to stay alone.
• Be affectionate. Patience and affection are crucial during your dog's settling-in stage — don't shout at them or scold them for barking; help them feel safe and comfortable in their new home.