A Guide to Help Your Puppy Settle in and Sleep Soundly

Hello there, fellow puppy enthusiasts! I’m Jhovanny Ortiz, proud breeder at All Star Kennel. Today, I want to share with you some valuable tips on how to ensure your adorable new puppy stops crying at night and settles into a peaceful slumber.

When you bring your fluffy friend home, it’s important to understand why they may be crying. Imagine the comfort they had with their mother and littermates, surrounded by familiar scents and sounds. Now, in their new home, they have a cozy bed all to themselves, but the change can be confusing for them. Don’t worry, though, because with these seven tips, your puppy will be snoozing in no time!

Potty Power: Remember that puppies have limited bladder control, so before bedtime, take them outside for a toilet break. In the early days, you may need to make a late-night trip to the garden. Avoid excessive chatter, praise, or treats during this time. Just guide them to the designated spot and wait patiently until they finish. Then, reward them with plenty of praise before returning them to their sleeping area. Keeping interactions brief helps prevent them from seeking attention during the night.

Crate Training: Consider crate training your puppy, ensuring a positive association with the crate. Research and follow the proper steps, such as feeding meals inside the crate, rewarding them for entering, and allowing them uninterrupted rest. This training, combined with additional exercises, will help your puppy settle down easily and even seek naps in their crate. Remember to only open the crate when they are quiet to discourage crying for attention.

Provide Comfort without Excessive Attention: Although it may sound heart-wrenching, comforting your puppy every time they cry will reinforce the behavior. Start by allowing them to sleep in a crate, pen, or dog bed in your room so they know you’re nearby. Remember, even a quiet “Shh!” can be interpreted as attention, so practice self-restraint and avoid engaging in lengthy conversations. As they become accustomed to sleeping undisturbed, gradually transition their sleeping spot to the desired location. You can also add an item of clothing with your scent for added comfort.

Exhaust Your Pup: A tired puppy is less likely to cry at night. Engage them in gentle, puppy-safe exercises, training sessions, and games to wear them out. If outdoor play isn’t possible, training and food puzzles can be great alternatives to drain their energy.

Stick to a Routine: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine will help your puppy understand when it’s time to sleep. Maintain the same sleeping place and time, and keep the environment stable in terms of lighting and noise. Set your alarm early, if possible, to reassure them that you’ll be there in the morning, reinforcing a sense of security.

Minimize Distractions: Your puppy only needs a comfortable sleeping area with soft bedding and a safe space like a crate or playpen. Avoid leaving treats or toys in their sleeping area, as they might become mischievous instead of settling down. While fresh water should always be available, it’s advisable to remove the water bowl from their sleeping quarters at night to avoid accidents.

Check for Underlying Issues: If your puppy continues to cry despite trying the above tips for a few days, check for any possible discomfort. Ensure they are not exposed to drafts, have sufficient warm bedding, and there are no unusual noises that might disturb them. Additionally, look for any signs of injury or illness. Remember, it may take a couple of days for a new approach to take effect, so be patient. If the issue persists, consult your vet to rule out any