What to Do When Your Puppy Cries at Night in the Crate

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but the first few nights can be challenging—especially if your puppy cries in their crate. Crate training is essential for safety, house training, and preventing destructive behavior, but it’s normal for puppies to feel uneasy at first. Here’s how to help your puppy adjust and sleep peacefully.

🏠 Where Should You Place the Crate?

The best spot for your puppy’s crate at night is in your bedroom. This allows you to hear if they need a potty break and provides them with comfort. Puppies are not used to being alone after being separated from their mother and littermates.

🐶 Pro Tip: Place the crate beside your bed so your puppy can smell and hear you. If they wake up and don’t need to go outside, you can offer reassurance with your voice or gentle touch without letting them out.

🐾 How to Handle the First Night

Your puppy may whine or cry due to the new environment. Here’s what to do:

1. Take them out for a potty break 🏡 – Carry your puppy outside to avoid accidents and reward them when they go.
2. Reintroduce the crate positively 🏠 – If they continue to cry, ensure they don’t associate the crate with negative emotions. Use soft bedding and a warm blanket.
3. Offer reassurance 💕 – A comforting voice, gentle petting, or a soft toy can help. Some puppies feel more secure with a ticking clock or a warm water bottle.
4. Be patient ⏳ – Puppies need time to adjust. Stick to a routine and be consistent with training.

🚽 Do They Need a Bathroom Break?

Young puppies have small bladders and need frequent potty breaks. A general guideline:

• 8 weeks old – Every 2 hours
• 12 weeks old – Every 3 hours
• 16 weeks old – Every 4 hours

⏰ Tip: Take them outside every 1–2 hours during the day and right before bed to prevent accidents.

🛑 What If They Keep Crying?

If your puppy continues to whine:

✅ Ensure they don’t need to go potty.
✅ Offer comfort without reinforcing excessive crying.
✅ Try a larger crate or puppy pen with a pee pad if needed.
✅ Make the crate a positive space with treats, meals, and soft bedding.

🏡 Crate Training Tips for a Happy Puppy

Crate training takes time, but following these steps will help your puppy see their crate as a safe haven:

✔️ Make the crate comfortable – Add a soft blanket and a favorite toy.
✔️ Introduce it gradually – Let them explore it freely before closing the door.
✔️ Use treats & rewards – Give small treats inside the crate to create positive associations.
✔️ Feed meals in the crate – This helps reinforce the crate as a happy place.
✔️ Avoid using the crate as punishment – It should always feel safe, not scary.

❓ Is Crating Essential?

While crating is highly recommended, some puppies prefer sleeping in a bed with their owners. If you choose this, ensure they are fully house-trained to avoid accidents.

💡 Final Thoughts
The first few nights with your new puppy can be tough, but with patience and the right approach, crate training will become easier. Remember, comfort, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key to success.

Does your puppy cry in their crate at night? Share your experiences in the comments! 🐶💤