Introduction

Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s most joyful experiences. Whether it’s your first dog or the latest addition to a growing family, the early days are filled with cuddles, excitement, and a strong desire to give your puppy the absolute best start in life.

Most new dog guardians put a lot of thought into feeding, vaccinations, training, and play, but one essential aspect is often overlooked: sleep.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why overtired puppies struggle with training and socialisation, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to prevent your puppy from becoming overwhelmed.

Why Puppies Need More Sleep Than You Think

It might surprise you to learn that puppies need around 18–20 hours of sleep per day up to the age of 16 weeks. Between 4–6 months, they still require at least 16 hours of rest.

Yet many puppies don’t get enough sleep—often because their guardians assume that puppies are bundles of endless energy and that tiring them out is the goal. In reality, puppies are babies, and just like human babies, they need long, uninterrupted periods of rest for their brains, joints, and immune systems to develop properly.

What Happens If Your Puppy Doesn’t Get Enough Sleep?

Sleep is when crucial growth and repair processes happen. If your puppy consistently misses out on quality rest, the consequences can go beyond just a grumpy dog:

Poor Brain Development

Without enough sleep, puppies struggle to retain training, regulate their emotions, or focus. An overtired puppy may seem “untrainable” when they simply can’t process what you're teaching them.

Joint and Bone Issues

Puppies have soft, developing joints. Over-exercise or rough play without adequate rest can increase the risk of long-term joint damage and developmental issues.

Weakened Immune System

Like humans, sleep helps strengthen the immune system. Puppies who don’t get enough sleep may become more vulnerable to illness and recover more slowly from things like kennel cough or infections.

Behavioural Problems

Chronic overtiredness can lead to frustration, increased reactivity, and even aggression later in life. A tired puppy who’s never learned to rest properly is more likely to act out when overwhelmed.

3 Common Mistakes That Lead to Overtired Puppies

1. Overwalking

Many new puppy guardians believe long walks will help "wear out" their puppy. But walks are mentally stimulating, not just physical. New smells, sounds, and sights can be overwhelming—especially for young dogs.

Stick to the 5-minute rule: 5 minutes of walking per month of age, once or twice a day.

2. Too Much Play with Other Dogs

Puppies need to socialise, but play should be structured and limited. Long or chaotic play sessions can push a puppy beyond their comfort zone, especially if they’re trying to keep up with adult dogs.

We recommend no more than 2-4 minutes of dog-to-dog play, followed by at least an hour of rest.

3. No Defined Sleep Space

Some puppies struggle to switch off if they’re always in busy, stimulating environments. Without a quiet, cosy space, they don’t learn to nap independently.

Create a designated sleep area like a crate or quiet room, and teach your puppy that it’s their safe spot to relax and recharge.

3 Ways to Help Your Puppy Rest & Reset

1. Crate Training for Calm Sleep

A crate can be a comforting den-like space—not a punishment zone. Use it to help your puppy self-regulate and settle, especially after walks or play.

Tips:

• Cover with a light blanket to block stimulation
• Add a soft bed and safe chew
• Feed meals or treats inside to build positive associations

2. Calm Socialisation with Structure

Daycares and boarders like Lola’s House are great for puppy socialisation because they provide gentle interactions, time-outs, and experienced supervision.

Check out our post on What Is Dog Boarding? to see how we balance play with rest for puppies who stay with us.

3. Follow a Predictable Daily Routine

Puppies thrive on structure. Feeding, walks, playtime, and naps should happen at roughly the same time each day so your puppy’s body and brain learn when it’s time to wind down.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Mistake Overtiredness for Energy

If your puppy seems to have “too much energy,” there’s a good chance they’re actually overtired. Overstimulated puppies can’t self-soothe the way adult dogs can—and without support, they struggle to learn how.

Providing structured play, gentle socialisation, and plenty of restful sleep is essential to raising a confident, balanced dog.

At Lola’s House, we’re passionate about raising calm, happy, and well-socialised dogs. That starts with the basics—food, sleep, gentle boundaries, and love.

Need help setting up a healthy routine for your puppy?
Ask about our Puppy Programme, where we guide new guardians through socialisation, sleep routines, and training tips tailored to your dog’s individual needs.

Email us at lola@lolashouse.co.uk to learn more.