10 Tips to Stop Your Puppy from Crying in the Crate

TLDRLearn 10 effective tips to stop your puppy from crying in the crate, including patience, exercise, potty breaks, crate games, and more. Crate training takes time and consistency, but with these strategies, you can help your puppy settle comfortably in the crate.

Key insights

🐶Crate training takes time, patience, and consistency

🏋️Exercise your puppy before crate time to promote relaxation

🚽Ensure your puppy's potty needs are met before crating

🎮Engage in crate games to create positive associations with the crate

🍽️Feed your puppy in the crate to build comfort and positive reinforcement

Q&A

How long does crate training take?

Crate training duration varies, but most puppies are well-adjusted to the crate by around 16 weeks of age.

What if my puppy panics and cries in the crate?

If your puppy panics and won't settle after about 10 minutes, wait for a break in the crying and let them out to reset the training.

Should I feed my puppy in the crate?

Feeding your puppy in the crate can help build positive associations, but if they won't eat with the door closed, feed them with the door open or near the crate.

How can I help my puppy settle in the crate at night?

Allow for a transition period and consider sleeping near the crate or allowing the puppy to sleep in a puppy pen with the crate door open.

What should I do if these tips don't work for my puppy?

If the tips provided don't work, consider seeking additional guidance and support, such as enrolling in a professional puppy training course.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the common problem of puppies crying in the crate.

03:08Tip #1: Have patience and understand that crate training takes time and commitment.

03:59Tip #2: Exercise your puppy to promote relaxation, but be mindful of timing to avoid overstimulation.

04:29Tip #3: Ensure your puppy's potty needs are met before crating to avoid discomfort and accidents.

05:32Tip #4: Use the crate throughout the day to familiarize your puppy with it, not just at night or when leaving the house.

06:25Tip #5: Avoid reinforcing crying behavior by not allowing the puppy to panic, but also don't ignore potential distress signals.

06:39Tip #6: Ensure your puppy's physical comfort by providing tools like snuggle toys or calming music and ensuring the crate is the right size.

07:26Tip #7: Engage in crate games to create positive associations and make the crate a fun and comfortable place for your puppy.

08:39Tip #8: Feed your puppy in the crate, but adjust the approach if it makes the food aversive.

09:19Tip #9: Allow for a transition period and adjust expectations as your puppy adjusts to their new environment and crate.

10:25Tip #10: Seek additional help and guidance if you've tried all the tips and are still experiencing difficulties with crate training.