Why Is My Old Dog Pacing at 2 A.M.?

The Common Reasons Older Dogs Pace at Night

1. Cognitive Changes (Doggy Dementia)

Just like humans, senior dogs can experience Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. They become disoriented in the dark, forget where their bed is, or wake thinking it’s morning. You may notice:

•             Wandering in circles

•             Barking or whining at night

•             Staring at walls or seeming “lost”

🩺 What helps:

•             Keep a small light on at night to reduce confusion.

•             Stick to a simple bedtime routine — same order, same time.

•             Talk to your vet about calming supplements or prescription support for cognitive decline. Alternatively seek a natural remedy to help this decline.

2. Pain or Discomfort

Arthritis, sore hips, or tummy discomfort can make lying still painful. Restlessness becomes their way of saying, “I can’t get comfortable.”

🩺 What helps:

•             Orthopaedic bedding or memory foam mats to cushion joints.

•             Gentle evening massages or a heat pad (never too hot).

•             If they’re panting or reluctant to lie down, check in with your vet for pain relief options.

3. Anxiety or Vision Loss

As eyesight fades, darkness feels unsafe. Dogs rely on routine and familiar surroundings; when they can’t see clearly, they seek movement to feel oriented.

🩺 What helps:

•             Use a night-light near their bed or hallway.

•             Play soft background sounds (white noise, low radio) to help them settle.

•             Avoid rearranging furniture — familiarity builds confidence.

4. Needing the Toilet

Older dogs can lose bladder control or forget where the door is. Pacing might simply mean “I need to go.”

🩺 What helps:

•             Offer a toilet break before bed and again if they wake.

•             Keep puppy pads near the back door for emergencies.

5. Medication Side Effects or Illness

Some medications — even for arthritis or heart issues — can cause restlessness, thirst, or confusion.

🩺 What helps:

•             Note any new behaviour after changing medication.

•             Ask your vet if timing or dosage can be adjusted.

💛 How to Help Your Dog (and Yourself) Sleep Again

•             Keep nights calm and predictable. Soft lights, same bedtime words, and gentle touches reassure them.

•             Don’t scold the pacing. They’re not misbehaving — they’re coping.

•             Stay connected. If you’re exhausted, try sleeping nearby on restless nights. Your scent and presence calm their nerves.

🌤️ A Gentle Reminder

If you’re up at 2 a.m. watching your senior dog pace, you’re doing something sacred. You’re walking beside them through a stage of life that demands more patience than ever — and more love than words can describe.

Every quiet night you comfort them is another moment of trust you’ve earned. And that, truly, is what they’ll remember most.