Puppies have a natural instinct inside that causes them to
whimper and whine when they are alone. It’s because dogs
are social creatures, much like humans. When they’re alone,
they may feel nervous or frightened. Before dogs were made
into “man’s (or woman’s) best friend,” they ran the land
in wild packs. They hunted, ate and slept together.
When you leave your puppy alone at night, especially
during his first few weeks at his new home, he is getting
used to the environment. He’ll most likely whine or cry. It
could last the whole nightlong. The best thing you can do is
to soothe him, but not cuddle him to sleep. Remember,
you’re trying to establish your role as leader and caretaker.
There is a different time to cuddle.
There is, however, a lot you can do to help put your new dog
to sleep, to make him feel comfortable in his new
environment. Don’t throw in the towel too early! Instead, try
throwing him one of your laundered t-shirts to sleep beside.
In his puppy room or crate, he’ll surely feel like you’re near
when he smells your shirt close. It will be as if there’s
someone beside him, as if his mother were with him in the
wild outdoors.
If this fails, try moving his puppy crate to your bedroom for
the night. If he continues to whine, try tapping the cage once
forcefully. Then, in a low firm voice say, “No. Sleep,” or “No.
Quiet.” This may sound harsh, but if you snuggle or cuddle
him to sleep, you will actually be re-enforcing his whining
behavior. He’ll associate his whine with your loving
attention. Try throwing in a chew toy for him to suckle.
If you aren’t training with a crate, bring the puppy into your
room with a leash. Attach it to the wall or to the bottom
bedpost. Line the floor with newspapers around him. You
can also give him a chew toy. Here, if the puppy whines or
moves around a lot, repeat the above verbal commands. Tap
the nightstand with your hand as you tell your puppy to be
quiet (it’s akin to tapping the cage with some force). With
both situations, you can throw him a t-shirt for good
measure. Or, you can even try a ticking clock or radio beside
the puppy at night. This is also helpful if when you are
away from your new puppy during the day. The constant
noise is very soothing.
One thing will surely help: be sure your puppy eliminates
and is played with vigorously before bedtime so he’s not
riled up.
Much of this can be applied to older dogs too. You may not
have to take him out as often, but be sure to allow him to go
to the bathroom and receive some attention before bedtime.
In any case, you will have to teach your puppy or pooch that
he will be soothed and loved, but that there are bedtime
rules.
It will seem like a lot of work, and you may lose some sleep.
But, take your time. And, before you know it, your puppy or
dog will sleep soundly, which will allow you and your
family to sleep the whole night through.
About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at
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Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
