How to Train a Puppy to Not Cry at Night

A new puppy in the home can really turn things upside down. Between potty training, bonding, and feeding time, it can make an owner’s life a little more than crazy while the pup gets settled in. It’s a new experience for everyone involved and it can be the most jarring for the puppy, who just a few days before was cozy and settled in with his mother and siblings. The transition is understandably scary and usually means that the first few nights in a new home will be full of plenty of puppy whines and howls.

Puppies can cry at night for a few reasons. Whether it’s because of hunger, loneliness, fear, or having to relieve themselves, it can put some strain on a brand new relationship with you. Nobody wants to spend all night listening to whining, so it’s important to establish a method for making the transition to your home as comfortable and pain-free as possible.

Being able to settle your puppy down for the night without a fuss is probably one of the more important abilities for a new dog owner, especially when you both just want a decent night of sleep. The younger the puppy, the more crucial these methods can be, and though it might be a rocky first few nights, most puppies can adapt to their new surroundings in two to five days. This adaptation time depends heavily on routine, repetition, and comfort.

You can use one or all of our training methods with your puppy to help adapt to your new home, depending on what method works best. Some puppies may need more support than others, so be prepared to take some time to give your puppy the best foot forward when it comes to living in your home.

To help your puppy sleep at night without crying, you may choose to use one or multiple training devices. This can include items like a properly sized crate, a device to emit white noise like a radio or other speaker system, or a scent diffuser which can emit certain pheromones. Other helpful tools include treats and safe chew toys, comfortable blankets and pillows, and warm spaces for your puppy to stay comfortably. Consider your puppy’s size and personality and choose which items may work best in your situation.