That elation of bringing a puppy home is not long-lived in the real life moments when you find out your nights may get pierced by your puppy’s whining in the middle of the night. While this is quite natural, it may understandably upset new owners who want to achieve peaceful nights.
When your puppy whines at night, it normally indicates that he’s letting you know something.
The key is to work out the reason for the whining and react in the way that promotes positive habits and does not reinforce the bad.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:
what causes our puppies to whine at night in their crate, what to do with their nighttime behavior and practical steps for your puppy to relax at night.
Why Your Puppy Whines in His Crate at Night
Almost every new puppy owner experiences whining at night. We’ll discuss the most common reasons that lead your puppy to whine at night inside his crate:
1. Separation Anxiety
Your puppy used to sleep in a social setting with his litter and mother. It might be overwhelming for your puppy to have him left alone in his crate. Puppies are social animals so can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone at night which causes whining or barking.
2. Need to Go Potty
If your puppy is whimpering in the crate at night, perhaps he is letting you know that he has to go outside. The youngu puppies have small bladders at this stage, especially those less than 4 months. If your puppy hadn’t been outside, he may be trying to communicate that he needs to go potty.
3. Discomfort in the Crate
Is the crate too small? Too hot? Too cold? Your puppy might whimper throughout the night because of an unacceptable crate because your puppy is searching for comfort, and he is uneasy.
4. Hunger or Thirst
Puppies grow extremely fast and their bodies use energy fast. A puppy that was not fed and not given water to drink before being put to sleep may start whining at night to express hunger or thirst.
5. Unfamiliarity of shadows or surprise noises can frighten some puppies.
Like children, some puppies might be scared of being alone in the dark or getting jolted from strange noises. Noises that are excessive, echoes or even the silence of the dark may make your puppy whine throughout the night in his crate.
6. Boredom or Overstimulation
Your puppy can stay active at night if he has not been appropriately exercised during the day. Alternatively when your puppy becomes too excited or aroused by activities he may become uneasy and start whining.
What to Do When Your Puppy Whines at Night
Step 1: Rule Out the Basics
- Make sure your puppy goes out to the yard twice before bedtime, preferably within the last hour before he lays down to sleep.
- Plan for his final meal to end approx. 3 hours before bed time.
- Make access to water all day and allow restricted time just before bedtime to avoid accidents.
- Check the crate for comfort: Use a comfortable blanket, safe chew toy and select venting that would make the space breathable.
- If your puppy whines after his needs are satisfied then the problem might lie in his emotional or behavioral needs.
Step 2: Create a Soothing Sleep Environment
- Provide a cover for the crate to add to the nice and safe environment in the crate.
- Soothing sounds like white noise devices or a soft ticking clock can help minimize Anxiety.
- Consider offering your puppy his or her favorite comfort toy or the worn t-shirt you have in your own laundry.
- You may also make your puppy’s dark fears a bit easier to bear by dimming lights or turning on a small night light during the night.
Step 3: Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Puppies love routine. A short right before bed 15-20 minute pre-sleep ritual may serve to soothe your puppy:
- A short 15-20 minute pre-sleep ritual can help your puppy unwind.
- Speak softly and carefully lower your puppy into his crate.
- Leave him alone quietly, but do not attract attention to it
When your puppy whimpers in the night, don’t jump to go back to him. Allow your puppy some time to settle down before replying. Calm play or gentle brushing
What Not to Do When Your Puppy Whines in His Crate
Don’t Let Him Out Every Time
Your puppy may persist at whining once he realizes that it gets your attention or allows freedom. Wait until you are sure he has to go urgently, and then just let him out without a fuss.
Don’t Yell or Scold
The juvenile puppy will become even more scared by screaming, pounding or pushing hard the crate door. It will not help your puppy and may only make him whine even more.
Don’t Move the Crate Constantly
Select an appropriate venue and make it uniform. Choose one area, like your bedroom or right at the door, to keep in mind to teach your puppy proper nighttime habits..
When to Be Concerned
While a lot of puppy whining at night is normal and its nature temporary, there are certain patterns that might be indicative of ongoing problems:
- The signs of being distressed such as whining, excessive panting or limping are to be taken seriously.
- If your puppy continues to whine during nights even after a few weeks of training when everything is supposed to be consistent.
- This is quite an evident increase in whining by your older puppy at night.
- Whenever you notice any symptoms of illness or discomfort, it is important to get in contact with your veterinarian.
How Long Does It Take for a Puppy to Stop Whining at Night?
Most puppies will learn to sleep in their crate (in the night) if you adhere to a fixed schedule within 2’3 weeks. However, each puppy is different some come to terms with it earlier than others depending on the breed, temperament and how often you stick to the schedule. Keep a routine and do not cause confusion or mixed messages.
Final Tips to Help Your Puppy Sleep Through the Night
Some major strategies that will make your puppy sleep throughout the night are as follows.
- Be sure to provide your puppy with ample daily exercise but avoid vigorous play near the time for bed.
- Be patient; he’s still learning !
- Reward your puppy when it stays quiet and calm.
- Don’t forget: It is common for your puppy’s nighttime whining in the crate to go away.
Final Thoughts
Whining in the crate at night can be irritating, but it’s an ordinary part of your puppy’s development. The majority of puppies, given a little bit of patience, structure, and the right environment, will begin to love their crate and sleep soundly by the end of two weeks.
Remember: He’s not trying to offend you, he’s attempting to determine how he’ll fit in his new life. Treat him with love, a steady routine, and thoughtful discipline and your nights will soon become normal again.
