Expert: Nicole - 2/26/2009

Question
Hi again! I was wondering I am the one with the 11 week old female basset puppy her name is Daphne, how much should she be sleeping during the day and at night. Her sleep is very unpredictable and I am trying to get her on a schedule any suggestions. One night she'll sleep 5 hours, the next 2 , but she takes several naps during the day.  I know she is a baby and I don't want to deprive her of sleep. What should I do.  She is sleeping in a crate. She is almost potty trained, poos outside only, but still peeing inside, but I have only had her for a week and 4 days.  Thanks for any advice!!!!!  Rachel

Answer
Hi Rachel,

Puppies sleep sporadically and often.  It's unrealistic to think that, right now, you can get her on some kind of sleep schedule.  What you can try to do, though, is to keep her active in the evenings so she's not taking a nap close to bed time.  It may help her sleep through the night, it may not.

When she does wake-up in the middle of the night, take her outside.  Don't speak to her and get her all stirred up.  Use your 'potty' words and that's it.  Take her out on lead, let her potty, keep your praise low-key and then bring her in and put her back in her crate.  The more you talk to her, touch her, etc. the less apt she is to go back to sleep and the more apt she is to start getting up in the middle of the night just to play and get attention.  ;)

Only peeing inside is a great accomplishment in less than 2 weeks...you should be proud!  :)