Settling a puppy at night in a crate requires creating a positive, comfortable environment and establishing a consistent routine.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help your puppy feel secure and sleep well in their crate…

Prepare the Crate Properly

• Choose the Right Size
  • The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use part of it as a toilet.
• Add Comfortable Bedding
  • Use a soft blanket or puppy-safe bed to make the crate cozy. Some puppies prefer something with the scent of their mother or you for reassurance.
• Include a Safe Toy or Chew
  • Provide a puppy-safe chew toy or a stuffed Kong to keep them occupied and calm.

Tire Your Puppy Out Before Bed

• Play and Exercise
  • Ensure your puppy gets plenty of physical and mental exercise during the day. A tired puppy is more likely to sleep soundly.
• Pre-Bedtime Calm
  • Engage in low-energy activities (like light play or cuddling) 30–60 minutes before bedtime to wind down.

Establish a Routine

• Dinner Time
  • Feed your puppy 2–3 hours before bed to give them time to digest and have a last potty break.
• Pre-Bedtime Potty Break
  • Take your puppy outside for a final potty trip just before putting them in the crate.
• Bedtime Cue
  • Use a consistent phrase like “bedtime” or “crate time” to signal it’s time to settle.

Create a Comfortable Environment

• Location of the Crate
  • Place the crate in a quiet but not isolated spot. For young puppies, it may help to keep the crate in your bedroom so they feel reassured by your presence.
• Lighting and Sound
  • Keep the room dim and quiet. A white noise machine or calming music can help soothe your puppy.

Introduce the Crate Positively

• Daytime Practice
  • Let your puppy explore the crate during the day with the door open. Reward them with treats for going inside voluntarily.
• Short Crate Sessions
  • Before using it overnight, help your puppy get comfortable with short periods of crate time during the day.

Handling Nighttime Whining

• Ignore Attention-Seeking Whining
  • If your puppy whines for attention, avoid letting them out immediately. This prevents reinforcing the behavior.
• Respond to Genuine Needs
  • If you suspect they need to potty, calmly take them outside without engaging in play or interaction. Return them to the crate afterward.
• Comfort Without Letting Out
  • If whining persists, try speaking softly to reassure them or gently place your hand near the crate without opening it.

Gradually Extend Crate Time

• Young Puppies (8–10 Weeks Old)
  • At this stage, expect to take your puppy out for potty breaks 1–2 times during the night.
• Increase Crate Time Gradually
  • As your puppy grows and gains bladder control (usually around 12–16 weeks), they’ll start sleeping through the night.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

• Don’t Use the Crate as Punishment
  • The crate should always be a positive, safe space.
• Avoid Overusing the Crate
  • Don’t confine your puppy for excessive periods during the day, as this can make them resent the crate.

Example Nighttime Routine

• 7:00 PM – Dinner
• 8:30 PM – Quiet play or bonding time
• 9:00 PM – Final potty break
• 9:15 PM – Crate time with a toy and soothing reassurance
• 9:30 PM – Lights out

Final Tips

• Be patient. It’s normal for puppies to whine a bit in the beginning as they adjust to the crate.
• Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to helping your puppy learn that the crate is a safe and comfortable place to rest.
• With time, your puppy will likely view the crate as their own little sanctuary.