Yes, it’s fine to leave an adult dog downstairs at night as long as he has a comfortable bed, fresh water, a safe, dog-proofed space, and a potty break right before bedtime. Young puppies and anxious dogs usually do better sleeping near you at first, and you can move them downstairs gradually once they’re settled.
For some, a dog upstairs is a no go. Perhaps their daily morning wake-up call is unbearable. This is why many owners prefer to leave their dogs downstairs at night. But what are the pros and cons of doing so? Does it help or hurt your dog in the long run? More in this article…
Is it okay to leave your dog downstairs at night?
It’s fine to leave your dog downstairs, but there are some points to consider. Dogs are social animals and can get lonely, hence it’s important to make them comfortable in any area of the house they’re spending time in.
If your dog is going to be alone downstairs at night, make sure they have a cozy bed and some toys. It’s also important to assess your dog’s safety. If you leave your dog downstairs, make sure that doors are locked and your dog can’t get into any trouble or cause damage.
Dogs should always have access to fresh water and a comfortable place to sleep when left alone at night. Providing mental enrichment activities like puzzle and treat toys, as well as providing plenty of playtime during the day can help keep your pup happy when left alone at night.
Things to keep in mind when leaving your dog downstairs at night
Just like leaving your dog alone at home, there are a few things to consider when leaving them downstairs at night.
- Make sure your dog has fresh water (food isn’t needed overnight if they’ve had their evening meal)
- Take them out for a last potty break right before bed
- Ensure they have plenty of toys to keep them entertained
- Check that the area is secure and free from hazards – a retractable dog gate for the stairs keeps your dog on the ground floor
- If possible, leave a light on for them and perhaps some background music or TV noise (see our picks for the best night light for dogs)
- Make sure your dog’s bed is comfortable enough
What are the pros and cons of leaving your dog downstairs at night?
Although it’s possible to leave your dog downstairs at night, there are some pros and cons to it.
Pros
- Quieter for the rest of the household
- More hygienic when your dog sheds a lot
- No morning wake up call
Cons
- Can make them feel lonely
- Your dog may start barking at night or cause trouble
- Can be harder to keep an eye on your dog
What about letting your dog sleep in your room, is this good for them?
A survey from AKC showed that around 45% of the people let their dog sleep in their bed. So it’s not new for people to allow their dogs to sleep in the same room as them.
A study called “A Multispecies Approach to Co-Sleeping” explains that historically, dogs and humans have been sleeping together for a long time. Traditional cultures often had their dogs sleep next to them to provide warmth and protection. There are some cons to it, but for many households the benefits outweigh them.
The well-known idea that dogs will feel dominant if they sleep in the same room or bed as you is a myth. Many dogs simply feel more secure and settle better when they can sleep close to their people.
It’s important to consider other occupants when deciding if your pup should sleep in the same room or not. People who might not be comfortable with the idea of a dog in the bedroom should be taken into consideration. If your dog keeps ending up in your bed anyway, read why your dog sneaks into your bed at night.
Pros and cons of letting your dog sleep in your room
Pros
- It can improve the bond between you and your furry friend
- Your dog might feel safer sleeping close to you
- You’ll have more control over their nighttime behavior if they are with you
Cons
- Allergies could be an issue for some people in the household
- Sharing a bed with your pet can disrupt your sleep
- Your pup could learn to expect it and become insecure if left alone at night
So what are the benefits? Let’s take a look.
Pros
- It can improve the bond between you and your furry friend
- Your dog might feel safer sleeping close to you
- You’ll have more control over their nighttime behavior if they are with you
Cons
- Allergies could be an issue for some people in the household
- Sharing a bed with your pet can disrupt your sleep
- Your pup could learn to expect it and become insecure if left alone at night
FAQ – Frequently asked questions
Here are answers to a few remaining questions you may have about leaving your dog downstairs at night.
Why are some dogs anxious when left alone at night?
Just like humans, dogs can feel anxious when left alone. Some dogs develop separation anxiety, which is often triggered by changes such as a new home, a new schedule, or the loss of a family member, or by never having learned to be alone. Others are simply unsettled by night-time noises. If your dog barks, howls, paces, or is destructive every night, talk to your vet or a qualified behaviorist.
A few tips to reduce your dog’s anxiety is to include plenty of mental and physical stimulation during the day, a quality crate or bed for them to sleep in, and leaving something with your scent on it like an item of clothing. Young puppies have their own night-time needs; using huskies as an example, we explain how much husky puppies sleep.
Are there any safety concerns when leaving a dog downstairs at night?
Of course! Make sure that the area is secure and free from hazards before letting your pet stay there for the night. Additionally, it’s also important to check that they have fresh water and a comfortable bed, and that things like electrical cords, trash cans, food on counters, and toxic plants are out of reach. If possible, leave a light on for them.
Can you leave 2 dogs downstairs at night?
Yes, as long as they get along well. Many dogs find a canine companion comforting at night, although a second dog won’t necessarily fix true separation anxiety, which is usually about being apart from their people. Just make sure there’s enough water for both of them and that each dog has its own bed or crate, and don’t leave chews or toys out if either dog tends to guard them.
Conclusion – A good night sleep
As we’ve seen, there are benefits both to leaving your dog downstairs and to letting them sleep in your room. In the end it’s your decision to make, but if you keep your pup downstairs at night, make sure the space is secure and free from hazards.
There are many benefits to allowing your pup to sleep in the same room as you, so if possible, try to make it work for your situation.
Thanks for reading! We hope you have a better understanding about leaving your dog downstairs at night and that you and your pup have a good night sleep!
