If the answer to that question is yes, don’t panic! Most puppies do cry in their crates at first, and although a whining puppy is distressing for you, you can help.
Read this guide for our top tips on how to help a puppy that’s crying in his crate.
1. Is Your Puppy in Pain?
Often, a new puppy cries because he is in pain. So, first of all, you need to make sure there’s nothing wrong with your puppy.
Maybe your pup has a tummy upset caused by a change of diet, or did he eat something he shouldn’t have? Your pup could be teething; in which case, a frozen chew toy could quickly solve the problem.
2. Potty Break
If your puppy is in the process of being toilet trained, he should cry to be let outside when he needs to relieve himself.
So, when your puppy starts crying in his crate, your first action should be to take your pup outside to see if he needs to go.
3. Hunger Pangs
Ideally, you should feed your puppy several times a day to provide him with the energy he needs to play and grow. If your puppy is hungry, he might cry, and a snack or a handful of treats could be all he needs to settle him down again.
4. Thirst
Dehydration is highly dangerous to puppies, so you must make sure that your puppy has access to clean water 24/7/365. A collapsible dog crate like the Diggs Revol crate can accommodate a clip-on water bowl or water bottle, so your furry friend need never feel thirsty.
5. Too Hot or Too Cold?
When he’s confined to his crate, your puppy can’t relocate to an area where the temperature is more comfortable. If your pup is too cold or too hot, he might cry for attention.
Make sure that the pup’s crate isn’t sitting in a draft, close to an open window, or right underneath an air conditioning unit. Similarly, you don’t want the crate right next to a fire, in direct sunlight, or somewhere that’s exposed to a heat source, such as a radiator.
6. Sleep Tight
If your puppy tends to cry at night, try placing his crate next to your bed or in your bedroom.
Your puppy is more likely to settle and sleep if he can smell and see you so that he knows you’re there with him. Also, if the little guy needs a potty stop, you’re on hand to prevent accidents.
7. Visual Barrier
A new home is an exciting place for a puppy to be- just imagine the information overload of all those new sounds, smells, and sights!
Puppies often settle down and stop crying if you use a crate cover to block out any distractions when you want your pup to enjoy some sleep time.
8. Boredom Breakers
If you put your puppy in an empty crate with nothing to distract him, he’s almost bound to get bored, especially if there’s lots going on outside the crate.
Keep your puppy busy and occupied by providing a few fun, interactive toys for him to play with. For example, a KONG toy stuffed with peanut butter or treats and frozen can keep most puppies happy for hours, and the crying stops as if by magic!
9. Exercise
A tired puppy will settle down much quicker than one that’s bouncing off the walls with energy!
So, before you put your puppy in his crate, ensure that he gets plenty of exercise. If your pup hasn’t had his complete course of vaccinations, spend some time playing with him indoors or in your backyard.
10. Comfort Blanket
You need to make your pup’s crate a comfortable, inviting place to be.
Newborn puppies seek the comfort of snuggling up with their littermates and mother every night, so it’s hardly surprising that a solitary puppy cries when alone in a strange new home.
You can make your puppy feel more relaxed and comfortable by providing him with lots of fleecy blankets to snuggle into, a stuffed animal with a heartbeat sound, and a cozy bed. You could also try using a plug-in DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) to help relax your pup.
11. Correct Crate Size
One of the most common causes for a puppy crying in his crate is that the crate is the wrong size for him.
Your puppy’s crate should have enough room for him to:
- Stand upright without bumping his head or his ears on the crate roof
- Lay down flat out without his feet touching the crate sides
- Sit down without bumping his head or his ears on the crate roof
- Turn around without knocking himself on the crate sides
There should also be enough space for your pup to play with his toys.
However, if the crate is too big, the puppy might begin using one end of the crate as a toilet area, which is counterproductive if you’re potty training your pet. A puppy won’t soil his sleeping area unless he’s absolutely desperate, so you don’t want to give him a crate that’s too big.
FAQs
Should I let my puppy cry in his crate?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors. One is how often your puppy cries in his crate. If he’s only crying for a few minutes at a time, then it’s probably not a big deal. However, if he’s crying for hours at a time, then it might be a problem.
Another factor to consider is how your puppy is crying. If he’s crying softly and not making much noise, then it’s probably not a big deal. However, if he’s crying loudly and trying to escape from his crate, then it might be a problem.
The last factor to consider is why your puppy is crying in his crate. If he’s crying because he’s bored or wants to play, then it’s probably not a big deal. However, if he’s crying because he’s scared or feels isolated, then it might be a problem.
If you’re still not sure whether or not you should let your puppy cry in his crate, then you can always consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They will be able to help you determine whether or not it’s a problem and what you can do about it.
How long is it OK for puppy to cry in crate?
It’s normal for puppies to cry when they’re first put in a crate. They’re used to being with their littermates and may not be happy at first about being alone. The key is to make sure that the crate is comfortable and inviting, and to give your puppy time to adjust to it.
Once your puppy is used to being in the crate, he shouldn’t cry for more than a few minutes at a time. If he’s crying for longer than that, something may be wrong. Make sure the crate isn’t too hot or cold, and that it’s not located in a noisy or busy area. If your puppy is still crying after making these adjustments, talk to your vet to see if there may be an underlying medical issue.
What do I do when my puppy cries in his crate?
If your puppy is crying in his crate, there are a few things you can do to help him feel more comfortable. First, make sure that the crate is not too big or too small for him. He should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably.
Second, put something soft and cozy inside for him to lie on. Third, give him a toy or bone to chew on. This will help him feel more comfortable and distracted from the fact that he is in a crate.
Finally, if possible, try to place the crate in a room where there is not too much noise or activity going on. This will help your puppy feel more relaxed. If you follow these tips, your puppy should stop crying in his crate in no time.
Should you let a new puppy cry at night?
The answer to this question varies depending on who you ask. Some experts say that it is okay to let a puppy cry at night, as they will eventually learn to sleep through the night.
Others believe that it is not advisable to let a puppy cry at night, as this can lead to separation anxiety or other behavioral issues.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to let a new puppy cry at night is up to the individual pet owner.
Some factors to consider include the age of the puppy, the breed of dog, and the pup’s personality. If you are unsure about what to do, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian or professional trainer.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoyed our advice and tips on how to help a puppy that keeps crying in his crate.
There are many reasons why a puppy might cry in his crate. Ensure that your pup isn’t in pain, isn’t hungry or thirsty, and has plenty of toys in his crate to keep him entertained. The crate should be comfortable, safe, welcoming, and not too far away from you at night.
