Demon puppy or do they just need a nap?

When i have new puppy owners tell me that their puppy is unruly, nippy, chaotic; my first question i ask them is how much sleep do they get?

Did you know puppies need between 18-20 hours sleep a day?!

I know that seems alot and unlikely but it explains alot as to why your puppy may be acting out, especially if they're not getting anywhere near the lower end of this time period. Just like children, when our puppies become tired they can begin to act out. At this period in their life, like kids again, they dont know how to self regulate. When to go for a nap and when they really need it.

A litter of puppies

As our puppies grow older we can teach them to go in their bed, or crate on cue and we can try and bring in a routine by doing so. Therefore hopefully teaching our puppies to regulate their selves as they grow older.

Just like anyone, a puppy without sleep can become grumpy and chaotic. Sleep regulates their emotional and physical state just like it does with us, and a lack of sleep can actually be detrimental to their growth.

Its important to do regular naps across the day. Get yourself into a routine of feed, toilet, play/walk, nap multiple times throughout the day. This way you can regulate your puppy and ensure they're getting everything they need. If your puppy is acting out, ask you're self first and foremost does my puppy have everything it needs.

Has it been fed?

Has it toileted?

Has it drank?

Could it be bored?

Has it had a walk?

Has it had mental stimulation?

How much sleep has it had?

Once you have checked off all of these then you will find you have a much calmer puppy.