Crate Training Puppies at Night: A Comprehensive Guide

Crate training your puppy at night can be a game-changer for both you and your furry friend.

First things first, it's essential to establish a consistent bedtime routine for your puppy. This can include a relaxing walk, a calming treat, or a soothing belly rub, all of which can help signal to your puppy that it's time for sleep.

Puppies typically need 18-20 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, so a good night's rest is crucial for their development. The crate will help your puppy learn to self-soothe and fall asleep more easily.

Aim to put your puppy in the crate at least 30 minutes before bedtime to give them time to settle in and relax.

Crate training at night is a game-changer for new puppies. A crate helps prevent them from getting into mischief while you're sleeping.

A crate is meant to be a relaxing and calm space for your dog, not a punishment. It's like a den or bedroom, where your puppy can feel safe and cozy.

Dogs, by instinct, don't like to soil where they sleep, so a crate helps with house training. They'll let you know when they need a potty break.

A crate can also reduce the risk of separation anxiety in your puppy. It provides a safe place for them to calm down when you're not around.

By crate training at night, you can prevent destructive behaviors like shredding the couch or chewing on chairs. Your puppy will be safe and sound in their crate, even when you're not supervising.

Crates are also super handy when traveling with your dog. They provide a cozy bedroom for your puppy to feel at home, no matter where you are.

To prepare for crate training, start by choosing a crate that's the right size for your puppy. Make sure it's large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, and consider investing in a fancy crate if your budget allows.

Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail, and from the floor to the top of the head in a sitting position, then add 4 inches to both dimensions. This will give you a good idea of the crate size you'll need.

You'll also want to select a spot for the crate that's disturbance-free, such as your bedroom, where your puppy can feel safe and less anxious.

Measure your dog from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail, and from the floor to the top of the head in a sitting position. Add 4 inches to both dimensions.

A crate should be big enough for your puppy to sit, stand, and turn comfortably. Bigger space means more chances of accidents.

Consider investing in a fancy crate if your budget allows. Wire crates are not the only option.

You may need more than one crate, especially in high-traffic areas where your dog can see people coming and going.

The right location for crate training is crucial for a smooth training process. It should be disturbance-free with no flashing lights, movement, loud noise, or other distractions.

Puppies are small and have been recently separated from their mother and siblings, so keeping the crate in your room near your bed can make them less anxious or fearful of the new place.

You can calmly lull them to sleep if they wake up during the night, making this option a great choice for crate training at night.

After a few nights, you can start the gradual transition by moving the crate away from the bed every night and then eventually to the desired location.

Changing their place of sleep occasionally will help them get acquainted with every nook and corner of the house, making them feel at home.

Curious to learn more? Check out: First Night Crate Training Rescue Dog

As you prepare for crate training, there are a few essentials to pack to make your puppy's new space comfortable and safe.

Pack a selection of toys that won't be a choking hazard, such as hard rubber toys, and choose ones that are large enough and can't be swallowed.

Make sure to include a small, hamster water dispenser or a small bowl of water, as large bowls can invite larger messes.

You'll want to bring a few soft beds for your puppy's crate, ideally two or three, so you can have one in the wash and one in the crate.

Some puppies may not love soft surfaces, so be prepared for your puppy to push the bedding aside if it's hot or if she's a hot dog in general.

For another approach, see: Training Portuguese Water Dogs

People generally function better with routine, and that goes for dogs, too.

Put your puppy in the crate for naps and at bedtime at consistent times, even if you’re home and available to keep an eye on them.

Consistency is key, and your puppy will appreciate the predictability of a schedule.

Carefully lift your puppy and place them in their crate when they fall asleep naturally anywhere around your home, so they wake there feeling relaxed.

A different take: Dog Training in the Home

Crate training a puppy at night will likely involve some crying, but it's essential to listen to your dog to understand what they're saying.

Puppies whine for a variety of reasons, including boredom, excitement, anxiety, illness, and a need to potty.

Crate training your puppy at night can be a lifesaver, especially for young puppies. Leaving them out at night is like leaving a baby out of their crib – it's just not safe.

A crate serves as a secure den for your puppy, where they can retreat if feeling overwhelmed or anxious. This keeps them from wandering off unsupervised at nighttime.

A crate keeps your puppy safe from potential accidents, like getting into trash or electrical cords. It's also a great way to prevent unwanted behaviors like chewing or digging.

By providing a crate, you're giving your puppy a sense of security and comfort, which can help them feel more relaxed and calm at night. This is especially important for young puppies who need to learn boundaries and feel safe in their environment.

Consistency is key to crate training puppies at night. Practicing consistency every day, every time, without deterioration, helps establish a predictable routine for your puppy.

You need to keep your patience, especially during nighttime crate training, as there will be hiccups and piddling accidents.

Our team at Suburban K9 specializes in delivering highly effective and immersive in-home training classes designed to expedite nighttime crate training for your beloved puppy.

Certified trainers understand that every young pup possesses unique characteristics and behaviors, which is why we take a personalized approach, tailoring the training experience to cater to your puppy's individual needs and temperament.

We bring the expertise right to your doorstep, creating a personalized plan that includes effective crate training techniques, rewards, comforting routines, and clear communication.

A balanced training approach is key, as relying solely on positive reinforcement may fall short of addressing the specific needs of your puppy during the darker hours.

Our balanced training steps in to set and enforce the rules while gently guiding your pup, without ever resorting to any harsh or inhumane techniques.

Additional reading: Balanced Dog Training