Introduction: How to Put Puppies to Bed

Puppies are a great addition to any family.  But you don't want your puppies making messes, destroying furniture, or sleeping in your dirty clothes while your not looking.  It's a good idea to cage puppies at night to keep them out of trouble and give yourself a break from all of the puppy related responsibilities.

Step 1: Preparing the Cages

It is important to make sure your puppies have a comfortable place to sleep. Each puppy should have his/her own cage. Their cages should only be big enough for the puppies to stand up and turn around in. The only thing you should put inside each cage should be a blanket or crate mat for the puppy to sleep on and a chew toy to help with teething.

Step 2: Preparing the Puppies

Before putting the puppies to sleep it important to make sure that they use the bathroom first.  Take them outside, or to their designated potty area, and wait as long as you can for them to go "number 1" and "number 2".  This will help prevent accidents in the night.

Step 3: Getting the Puppies Into Their Cages

Some puppies may be hesitant to go into their cages.  It is a good idea to place treats in their cages and work on coaxing them into their cages before bed time, so that they can get used to it.  If your puppy still does not want to go inside their cage try enticing them with a treat.  Try your best not to force the puppies in, although with some stubborn dogs this may be necessary.  Be sure to give the dogs plenty of praise when they are in their cages and even give them another treat.

Step 4: Helping the Puppies Fall Asleep

Most puppies wont want to be in their cages for the first few nights, and will whine until they fall asleep.  It is a good idea to cover their cage with a dark blanket or cloth, if there will be people in the same room.  This way the puppies wont be distracted by whats going on outside of their cages. If they are still up, try turning off the lights, or turning on the tv or some music to lull them to sleep.

Step 5: Congratulations!

Your puppies are now asleep, and you can now focus on doing some work or getting some sleep of your own!