Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, heartwarming, and a little chaotic. But as night falls and your little bundle of fluff begins to cry nonstop, many new dog parents ask, “Why won’t my puppy stop crying?” or “How do I soothe a puppy the first night home?”  This comprehensive guide addresses the most common question: how to stop my puppy from crying when it first comes home. We’ll explore the reasons behind the crying, proven comfort techniques, and strategic training tips to bring peace to your pup and your household.

We however recommend that when you are bringing a new puppy home that you schedule some time to be there with them for the first couple of days. It would help with their transition and also with you getting to know them better.

Whether you live in Barbados or anywhere in the Caribbean, these steps will help ensure a smoother transition for your new furry family member.

Why Puppies Cry at Night in a New Home

Understanding the cause of the crying is essential to solving it. Here are some of the primary reasons:

1. Separation Anxiety

Your puppy has just left their littermates and mother. This sudden change causes emotional distress.  Some puppies feel it a lot more than others. His/her new environment is a lot for a little puppy to adjust to coming from a place where they had all their littermates and mother to entertain and comfort them. It is now a lonely world – the puppy will need time to adjust.

2. Fear of New Environment

New smells, noises, people, and furniture can overwhelm a pup which is shown by their cries.

3. Basic Needs

They may need to go potty, be hungry, thirsty, or too cold.  Most times when a puppy is crying something is wrong. Because they are new to you – picking up what is wrong will take some time.

4. Need for Reassurance

Puppies thrive on close contact and often cry for comfort or attention.

Step-by-Step: How to Stop Puppy Crying the First Night

Step 1: Create a Cozy Den-Like Sleeping Area

A crate or playpen with high walls, a soft blanket, and a warm toy can create a safe space that mimics the feeling of being with their litter.

• Use a heartbeat sound plush toy to mimic the sensation of sleeping with siblings.
• Add an item with your scent (e.g., worn t-shirt) for comfort.

Warning – because you puppy is also being potty trained ensure that their space is not too big. You do not want a puppy to urine in its crate as this smell can be very hard to remove.

check out: – American Kennel Club on Crate Training Basics

Step 2: Stick to a Sleep Routine from Day One

• Establish consistent feeding, potty, and bedtime routines.
• Avoid high-energy play right before bed.
• Lights out at the same time every night.

Routine breeds familiarity and reduces nighttime stress.

Step 3: Use Soothing Background Noise

White noise machines or dog-calming music playlists can mask household noises and soothe anxious puppies.

check this out: – Spotify Dog Music Playlist

Step 4: Gradually Build Crate Comfort

• Day 1: Feed your puppy near the crate
• Day 2: Toss treats into the crate and let them explore
• Day 3: Close the crate door for short periods

Step 5: Tire Them Out Before Bed

A tired puppy is a sleepy puppy.

• Short walk or play session 30-60 minutes before bed
• Chew toys or food puzzles help mentally exhaust them

Avoid overstimulation, though, as it can backfire.

Step 6: Don’t Reinforce Crying

Crying can escalate if you rush to comfort your pup every time. Once you ensure their basic needs are met:

• Give a calming cue like “Goodnight, pup.”
• Walk away and wait 10-15 minutes before returning
• Gradually extend the wait time each night

This is a very important point – you do not want to create bad habits by consistently rushing to your puppy every time s/he cries. Puppies crave attention and if they see that crying gives them your attention it will only get worst. Be comforted in the fact that this crying period will eventually end but unfortunately it is part of the puppy ownership process. If you do it well, you will have a well-adjusted puppy in the future.

Step 7: Use Night Lights

Dim lighting helps a puppy navigate their space and reduces fear in a new environment.  At PawfectionBB our puppies will be accustomed to the lights being turned off around 7pm every night. It is best that you continue to use this routine when they are home with you.

Step 8: Avoid Midnight Relocations

Bringing your puppy into your bed or another room at night teaches them that crying leads to attention. Stick to their designated space.

This is a big mistake that new puppy owners make. We highly do not recommend that you bring your puppy into the same room as you at night. This can increase separation anxiety when you go to work during the day. The puppy needs to get comfortable with being on their own and learn to entertain themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Should I sleep next to my puppy the first night?

A: Sleeping nearby (e.g., in a sleeping bag next to the crate) is fine but avoid bringing them into your bed. It reassures them without reinforcing dependency.

Q: Is it cruel to ignore a crying puppy?

A: Not if you’ve met all their needs. Controlled ignoring teaches them independence and builds long-term confidence.

Q: How long will the crying last?

A: Most puppies adjust within 3-7 days with proper care and training.

Tools to Help You Stop Puppy Whining at Night

Signs Your New Puppy’s Crying Could Be Medical

Consult your vet if your puppy is:

• Crying even when held
• Has diarrhea or vomiting
• Refuses to eat
• Has trouble breathing

Recap: Puppy Comfort Blueprint

1. Provide a safe sleep space
2. Use soothing sounds and scents
3. Tire them out (mentally + physically) during the day – a tired puppy will not cry
4. Stick to a nighttime routine
5. Avoid midnight cuddling in bed
6. Gradually let them self-soothe

Final Thoughts

The first few nights are tough for you and your puppy. But with patience, structure, and comfort, you’ll create a peaceful routine in no time.

At PawfectionBB, we specialize in providing support and advice to Caribbean families bringing home new Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Shih Poos, and Maltipoos. From day one to adulthood, we’re here to guide you.

Contact Us: admin@pawfectionbb.com