If your dog is having trouble sleeping after getting neutered, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that many pet owners face after their dog has the surgery. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why dogs may have difficulty sleeping after they get neutered and offer some tips on how to help them get back to a good night’s sleep.
Why Won’t My Dog Sleep After Getting Neutered?
Imagine how you would feel after having surgery. You’d probably feel off and not much like yourself, making it hard to be in your routine from working to eating to sleeping.
It’s the same way for your furry friend. Here are some of the main reasons why he may be struggling with falling asleep after his surgery:
1. He’s In Pain
One of the most common reasons why your dog won’t sleep after getting neutered is because he’s in pain. The surgery itself can be quite painful and it may take a few days for the pain to subside. He may be experiencing acute pain at the site of the surgery or generalized pain from the entire process.
2. He’s Stressed
Another reason why your dog may not be sleeping well is that he’s stressed. The surgery can be a very stressful experience for dogs, especially if they’re not used to being in the hospital or away from home. The stress of the surgery can also lead to anxiety, which can make it difficult to fall asleep.
3. He’s Excited
It’s also possible that your dog is simply too excited to sleep. He may be excited about being home from the hospital or about all the attention he’s been getting from you and your family. This excitement can lead to a lot of energy, making it hard to settle down and fall asleep.
4. He’s Experiencing Swelling
Another common reason why dogs have trouble sleeping after surgery is that they’re experiencing swelling. This is especially true for dogs who have been neutered, as the surgery can cause swelling in the scrotum. This swelling can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to sleep.
5. He Feels Uncomfortable With Stitches and a Cone
Many dogs also find it difficult to sleep with stitches and a cone. The stitches can be uncomfortable and the cone can make it difficult to move around. This can lead to a lot of tossing and turning, making it hard to fall asleep.
6. His Sleeping Area Isn’t Comfortable Enough
If your dog’s sleeping area isn’t comfortable enough, it can make it difficult to fall asleep. Even if he enjoyed his sleeping area just fine before, it may not be enough for him when he’s feeling sensitive and in pain.
7. He Wants to Be Near You
Finally, it’s possible that your dog simply wants to be near you. He may not feel comfortable sleeping in his own bed or crate if you’re not nearby. This can make it difficult for him to fall asleep, even if he’s tired.
What to Do if My Dog Won’t Sleep After Getting Neutered?
It can be tiring for dog owners to see their pups go through the stress of one or more sleepless nights. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help your dog get some much-needed rest.
Here are a few tips to help your dog sleep better after he’s been neutered:
1. Give Him Pain Medication
If your dog is in pain, it’s important to give him pain medication. This will help to ease his discomfort and make it easier for him to sleep. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best type of pain medication for your dog.
2. Give Him Relaxing Supplements
There are also a variety of supplements that can help to relax your dog and ease his anxiety. These supplements can be found at most pet stores and online. Some popular and effective supplements include CBD oil, Rescue Remedy, and lavender oil.
These can be given orally, added to your dog’s food, and even come in treat form. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about which supplement is best for your dog.
3. Try an Anxiety Vest
If your dog is having trouble sleeping due to anxiety, an anxiety vest may be able to help. These vests are designed to help dogs feel safe and secure, which can make it easier for them to sleep. They work by applying gentle pressure to your dog’s body, which has a calming effect.
You can find anxiety vests at most pet stores or online.
Be sure to choose one that is the right size for your dog and that is comfortable for him to wear. You’ll also want to make sure that it doesn’t touch or interfere with any of his stitches.
4. Make His Environment More Comfortable
You can also make your dog’s environment more comfortable to help him sleep better. This may include adding a heating pad to his bed, placing a fan in his room, or using a white noise machine.
Reduce any anxiety-inducing stimuli, such as loud noises or bright lights. You may also want to consider using a calming diffuser with lavender or chamomile oil.
5. Make His Bed More Comfortable
If your dog’s bed isn’t comfortable, it may be time to invest in a new one. There are a variety of beds available for dogs, including orthopedic beds, heated beds, and memory foam beds. Be sure to choose one that is the right size for your dog and that will provide the support he needs. You can also add pillows of a piece of your clothing to his bed to make it more comfortable and familiar.
6. Move Your Dog’s Bed Closer To Yours
If your dog is experiencing separation anxiety, moving his bed closer to yours may help. This will allow him to be near you and feel more secure, which can make it easier for him to sleep.
You may also want to consider allowing your dog in the bed if you’re comfortable with that. This will allow him to cuddle with you, which can be very soothing.
7. Try to Entertain Your Dog During the Day
Don’t go overboard with this, because your dog is recovering, but keeping your dog’s mind active and going on a few brief light walks can help to tire him out. Even setting up a toy like a Kong filled with frozen peanut butter can give your dog something to do and occupy his time.
A tired dog is often a calm dog, and a calm dog is more likely to sleep through the night.