My dog is restless when a guest sleeps over. Do they need a new bedtime rule?

Restlessness does not show whether they are excited, watchful or uncomfortable. Give the dog a quiet sleeping option away from the guest, and make sure the guest knows not to follow them there.

Keep the usual evening toilet trip, food and bedtime as steady as you can. If your dog approaches the guest, let them leave again freely. Avoid shutting a worried dog beside the guest or expecting the visitor to train them. The visitor routine guide may help with the arrival and departure parts, but bedtime needs its own calm plan.

Notice when the pacing begins. Is it while the guest moves toward a room, only when doors close, or throughout the night? If your dog repeatedly cannot sleep, seems painful, pants at rest or changes their behavior even without visitors, contact your vet. A qualified reward-based professional can help plan visits if fear persists.

Today, choose a familiar resting place and agree on a simple rule with the guest: the dog can retreat without interruption. A peaceful night is more important than forcing social time.

Sources: Dogs Trust on setting up a visitor routine, Dogs Trust on a safe, undisturbed resting place, Dogs Trust on recognizing stress.