Let’s face it, nobody likes hearing their pup cry in the crate at night. If you are a new pet parent, this can feel very stressful, and rightly so. In fact, some pet parents claim that they think they’re failing their pup or doing something wrong. That said, crate crying at night is one of the common challenges that dog owners face, especially during the first few weeks of adjustment. This is where pet care services come in.
Go through the blog to find out why pups cry in the crate, how to have it fixed, and when to call for professional help.
Why Do Puppies Cry in Their Crates at Night?
Instinct and Separation Anxiety
Your pup probably spent the first few weeks surrounded by companions and the familiar smell of their mother and littermates. So, it’s obvious for them to feel alone in the crate, especially when in a new home. This triggers separation anxiety in them.
Need for Bathroom Breaks
Puppies have tiny bladders and aren’t particularly potty trained. So, they usually need a potty break every three hours, even at night. So, if your puppy cries in their crate at night, calmly take them out for a quick bathroom trip.
Discomfort or Fear
Nobody likes a cold, hard room with strange smells, and puppies are no different. Your puppy may simply be complaining about the crate, which feels more like a cage than a cosy space. The crate will be more acceptable to the pup when it feels less like a punishment.
Techniques To Reduce Nighttime Crate Crying
Gradual Crate Training
Introduce your dog to the crate gradually. This creates a positive association and reduces stress in them. Keep the crate in a quiet, low-traffic area, so your pup can explore it freely. Adding a few toys tends to make the space more inviting.
Establishing a Bedtime Routine
Much like human kids, even puppies thrive on routine. So, always stick to a schedule. Some experts from professional dog boarding in Reading recommend starting with a short play session. This helps burn energy. Follow it up with a potty break, and then give them cuddles before eventually saying goodnight.
When To Reach Out for Professional Help
It is normal for pups to cry occasionally at night, especially during their early days of crate training. However, if it turns into persistent crying or occurs despite careful training, it might be a sign of severe anxiety. In fact, rushing with crate training can lead to a fear of confinement in sensitive dogs.
A visit to the local veterinarian could well be the best first step to rule out inherent medical ailments. However, if your puppy receives a clean bill of health and still struggles, you may want to reach out to our team of professional dog boarding in Reading – Buddy’s Pet Care. We offer compassionate and professional support tailored to your dog’s unique needs. Contact us today to book a consultation.
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