Kennel Training Puppy at Night: Quick & Easy Tips for Fast Results

Kennel training puppy at night can be one of the most challenging parts of bringing a new puppy home. While welcoming your furry friend comes with cuddles and playtime, nights often bring whining, crying, or barking in their crate.

If you’ve been feeling tired and restless from sleepless nights with your new puppy, you’re definitely not alone. Kennel training your puppy at night is a crucial step to help them (and you!) get the restful sleep you both need.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything about kennel training your puppy at night — from creating the perfect sleeping space to understanding their nighttime behavior and setting up routines that lead to peaceful, quiet nights.

Understanding the Benefits of Kennel Training Puppy at Night

Before diving into the specifics of nighttime kennel training, it’s important to understand why crate training is beneficial for both puppies and their owners. Despite what some may think, properly executed crate training is not cruel—it taps into your dog’s natural denning instinct.

Safety and Security

Dogs are den animals by nature. A properly sized crate provides a safe, den-like space where your puppy can retreat when feeling overwhelmed or tired. A crate creates a secure environment that prevents your curious puppy from getting into potentially dangerous situations while you’re sleeping or not directly supervising them.

“A crate can help not only with housetraining, but also car or plane travel, and overnight stays with friends, family or at a pet-friendly hotel,” notes veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker of the Animal Health Foundation.

House Training Acceleration

One of the most significant benefits of kennel training is its effectiveness in house training. Dogs naturally avoid eliminating where they sleep, making a properly sized crate an excellent tool for teaching bladder and bowel control.

Reduced Destructive Behavior

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, which often leads to chewing furniture, shoes, or other household items. A crate prevents this destructive behavior during times when you cannot actively supervise your puppy, such as at night.

Preparing for Future Situations

A crate-trained dog will be better prepared for various situations throughout their life, including visits to the veterinarian, grooming appointments, travel, or stays in boarding facilities. This training reduces stress during these events and provides familiar comfort.

Setting Up the Perfect Nighttime Crate

The right crate setup can make all the difference between a peaceful night and hours of crying. Here’s how to create the ideal sleeping environment for your puppy.

Choosing the Right Crate Type and Size

When selecting a crate for nighttime use, consider both the type and size:

• Crate Type: While plastic “airline-style” crates can block out light, wire crates provide better ventilation. Consider your puppy’s needs and preferences.
• Crate Size: The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably—but not so large that they can use one corner as a bathroom and sleep in another. If you’re purchasing a crate for a growing puppy, choose one with a divider panel that can be adjusted as your puppy grows.

Location Matters

Where you place the crate can significantly impact your puppy’s ability to settle down and sleep through the night:

• For nervous puppies: Keep the crate in your bedroom for the first few weeks to provide reassurance with your presence and scent.
• For light sleepers: If your puppy is easily disturbed by movement or sound, consider placing the crate in a quiet corner or a separate, less active room.
• Temperature considerations: Ensure the crate isn’t placed near drafty windows, heat vents, or in direct sunlight, which could make your puppy uncomfortable.

Creating a Comfortable Den

The inside of the crate should be inviting and comfortable:

• Bedding: Use washable bedding that’s comfortable but not too warm. Some puppies prefer cooling mats, while others like plush beds.
• Cover: Draping a light blanket or specially designed crate cover over the top and sides (leaving the door uncovered) can create a den-like feeling that promotes security and better sleep.
• Comfort items: A t-shirt with your scent or a special stuffed toy designed for puppies, like the Snuggle Puppy (which mimics the warmth and heartbeat of littermates), can provide comfort.

“Setting up a camera to monitor your puppy at nighttime (and during the day) can be incredibly helpful for crate training,” advises Preventive Vet. “You can even set up notifications on your phone when the camera senses movement, giving you a heads up that your puppy is stirring in their crate.”

Helpful Additions for Nighttime Crating

Consider these helpful additions to your puppy’s crate setup:

1. White noise machine or fan: This helps mask household or outdoor noises that might disturb your puppy.
2. Calming pheromone diffuser: Products like ThunderEase or Adaptil emit synthetic versions of the pheromones mother dogs release when nursing, which can help soothe anxious puppies.
3. Snuggle Puppy: This plush toy with a heartbeat simulator and heat pack can mimic the comfort of sleeping with littermates.
4. Limited access to water: While puppies should always have access to water during the day, limiting water intake 1-2 hours before bedtime can help reduce nighttime bathroom breaks.

First Night Strategies for Successful Kennel Training Puppy at Night

The first few nights with your puppy are crucial for establishing good habits and making the transition from their mother and littermates as smooth as possible.

Preparation is Key

Before your puppy’s first night, ensure you’ve prepared everything you’ll need:

• Have potty break supplies ready: Keep a leash, collar, flashlight, and poop bags by the door for middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks.
• Set up the crate: Make sure the crate is properly set up with comfortable bedding and positioned in its designated location.
• Set expectations with family members: Everyone should understand the nighttime routine and why it’s important not to give in to crying.

First Day Fatigue: A Helpful Tool

While you don’t want to overtire your puppy, a moderately active first day can help ensure they’re ready for sleep when bedtime comes:

• Mental stimulation: Introduce your puppy to their new home in a controlled manner, allowing them to explore different rooms.
• Short play sessions: Engage in brief play sessions throughout the day, being careful not to overstimulate.
• Practice crate introduction: During the day, introduce the crate with treats and positive associations.

The Bedtime Routine

Establish a consistent bedtime routine from day one:

1. Take a potty break: Always take your puppy out for one last bathroom break immediately before putting them in the crate.
2. Keep it low-key: Avoid exciting play or excessive attention right before bedtime.
3. Use a consistent verbal cue: Say something like “bedtime” or “crate” in a calm, positive tone.
4. Provide a small treat: A small treat or stuffed Kong (given only during crate time) can create positive associations.
5. Stay matter-of-fact: Don’t make a big deal about putting your puppy in the crate. A calm “goodnight” is sufficient.

Responding to First Night Crying

It’s almost guaranteed that your puppy will cry on the first night. How you respond sets the tone for future nights:

• Differentiate between distress and adjustment: If your puppy sounds truly distressed (high-pitched, continuous crying or howling), you may need to provide some comfort. If it’s normal adjustment whining, brief reassurance may be sufficient.
• Provide comfort without removal: If your puppy is distressed, you can sit near the crate and speak softly. Avoid taking them out of the crate unless they need a bathroom break.
• Consider sleeping nearby: For the first few nights, sleeping on a mattress or couch near the crate can provide reassurance.

“In a nutshell, my advice is to place your dog in the crate at bedtime, to lock the door of the crate and NOT to come back until a sensible hour in the morning, nor respond to crying in any other way than by ignoring totally. This really is as simple as it gets.” – AlphaDog Behaviour

While this approach works for some trainers, many veterinarians and behaviorists recommend a more balanced approach, especially for very young puppies who are experiencing their first nights away from their mother and littermates.

Recognizing Different Types of Nighttime Crying

Not all nighttime vocalization is created equal. Understanding the different types of crying can help you respond appropriately.

Distress Crying

This type of crying indicates genuine emotional distress:

• Characteristics: High-pitched, non-stop barking or howling, extended periods of whining
• Body language: Pacing in the crate, attempts to escape, panting, excessive licking
• Appropriate response: Provide comfort without removing from the crate (unless necessary). Speak soothingly, sit nearby, and provide reassurance until they calm down.

Here’s what distress barking might look like, as shown by puppy Finnegan in his first night home:

Demand Barking

This type of vocalization is your puppy’s attempt to get out of the crate:

• Characteristics: Repetitive barking or whining, often with periods of silence in between to listen for your response
• Body language: Alertness, looking toward you expectantly, stopping temporarily when they hear you approach
• Appropriate response: Ignore the barking. Wait for a moment of silence before providing any attention.

Potty Break Signals

Recognizing when your puppy genuinely needs a bathroom break is crucial:

• Characteristics: Restlessness before whining begins, moving around the crate
• Body language: Circling, sniffing, pawing at the crate door
• Appropriate response: Take them outside immediately for a bathroom break, keeping the outing boring and brief

Watch how Finnegan shows restlessness when needing a potty break in the middle of the night:

Tips for Distinguishing Between Crying Types

• Use a camera: A pet camera can help you observe your puppy’s body language and determine the type of crying.
• Watch the clock: Note the time since the last potty break. Young puppies have small bladders and may genuinely need to go out every few hours.
• Listen for intensity changes: Distress crying often intensifies over time, while demand barking may decrease if ignored.

Establishing an Effective Nighttime Routine

Consistency is the cornerstone of successful kennel training. A well-planned routine helps your puppy understand what to expect and when.

Daytime Preparation for Nighttime Success

What you do during the day significantly impacts nighttime crate training:

• Regular crate training practice: Incorporate positive crate experiences throughout the day, not just at night
• Proper exercise: Ensure your puppy receives appropriate physical and mental stimulation during the day
• Consistent meal times: Feed your puppy at the same times each day, with the last meal 3-4 hours before bedtime

The Evening Wind-Down

Start preparing your puppy for a peaceful night about two hours before bedtime:

1. Calm activities: Replace rambunctious play with gentle activities like light training sessions or quiet chew time
2. Reduce water intake: Pick up water bowls 1-2 hours before bedtime (consult your vet first, especially if your puppy is on medication)
3. Last meal: Ensure the last meal is fully digested before bedtime
4. Bathroom breaks: Take your puppy out for a thorough bathroom break right before crate time

Sample Nighttime Schedule for an 8-Week-Old Puppy

Here’s a typical nighttime schedule that works well for very young puppies:

• 7:00 PM: Last meal of the day
• 7:30 PM: Remove water (consult with your veterinarian first)
• 8:00-9:00 PM: Calm play and mental stimulation
• 9:15 PM: Last potty break
• 9:30 PM: Into the crate with a small treat
• 1:00 AM: Wake for a quick potty break (set an alarm)
• 5:00 AM: Morning potty break
• 6:00 AM: Wake-up time and breakfast

As your puppy grows, you can gradually extend the time between nighttime potty breaks until they can sleep through the night.

“For nighttime potty breaks, fortunately, we can expect a little bit longer between breaks than during the day, thanks to the fact the puppy is asleep. Plan for at least two potty breaks during the night for very young puppies, and then adjust accordingly based on their house training progression.”

Managing Potty Breaks Without Disrupting Sleep Training

Nighttime potty breaks are an essential part of kennel training a young puppy, but they need to be handled carefully to avoid disrupting your training progress.

Determining the Right Frequency

Young puppies have small bladders and limited control. Here’s a general guideline for how frequently puppies need nighttime bathroom breaks:

• 8-10 weeks old: Every 2-3 hours
• 11-14 weeks old: Every 3-4 hours
• 15-16 weeks old: Every 4-5 hours
• 17+ weeks old: May be able to last 6-7 hours

Remember, these are just guidelines. Some puppies develop bladder control faster than others based on size, breed, and individual development.

The Art of the Midnight Potty Break

When taking your puppy out during the night:

1. Keep it boring: No play, no excitement, minimal talking
2. Use minimal lighting: Just enough light to see where you’re going
3. Carry your puppy: If possible, carry your puppy to their outdoor potty spot to avoid accidents en route
4. Use a consistent potty cue: Say your potty cue word (e.g., “go potty”) in a neutral tone
5. No extended playtime: Return to the crate immediately after elimination
6. Limit praise: While you should acknowledge success, keep praise minimal and low-key

Proactive Scheduling vs. Reactive Responses

A proactive approach to nighttime potty breaks is more effective than waiting for your puppy to cry:

• Set alarms: Wake up before your puppy starts crying to avoid teaching them that crying gets them out of the crate
• Track patterns: Note when your puppy typically needs to go out and adjust your schedule accordingly
• Gradual extension: Slowly extend the time between potty breaks as your puppy develops better bladder control

The “Quick Return” Strategy

How you return your puppy to their crate after a potty break matters:

1. Minimal interaction: Avoid eye contact or excited talking
2. No play or cuddles: Save these for daytime interactions
3. Matter-of-fact attitude: Calmly place your puppy back in the crate without making it seem like a punishment or reward
4. Small comfort: If needed, briefly pet your puppy after they’re back in the crate, then exit quietly

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Common Challenges and Solutions

Even with perfect preparation and execution, you’re likely to encounter some challenges during nighttime kennel training. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

Persistent Crying or Barking

Challenge: Your puppy cries or barks continuously despite your best efforts.

Solutions:

• Check the basics: Ensure your puppy’s needs are met (bathroom, comfortable temperature, appropriate bedding)
• Crate location adjustment: Try moving the crate closer to or further from your bed
• Add comfort items: A Snuggle Puppy toy, your worn t-shirt, or a heartbeat simulator can provide comfort
• White noise: Use a sound machine or fan to mask sounds that might be triggering barking
• Crate retraining: Take a step back and work on positive crate associations during the day

One owner shared: “Brought him home at 2 months old. Started crate training at night right away. First night he cried and so did I. Second night I moved the crate from the kitchen to my bedroom floor and he only made a few little whines before settling. Third night he went right to sleep.” Reddit

Early Morning Wake-Ups

Challenge: Your puppy consistently wakes up at 5:00 AM ready to start the day.

Solutions:

• Block light: Use blackout curtains or cover the crate to prevent early morning light from stimulating your puppy
• Gradual time adjustment: If taking your puppy out at 5:00 AM, don’t start the day yet—take them back to the crate after the potty break
• Later evening: Consider pushing the entire schedule later by 15-30 minutes every few days
• Ignore alertness: Don’t respond to playful morning behavior; only respond to genuine potty needs

Regression After Initial Success

Challenge: Your puppy was sleeping well but suddenly starts crying at night again.

Solutions:

• Rule out medical issues: A sudden change in behavior can indicate health problems; consult your veterinarian
• Check for changes: Consider environmental changes (temperature, noises, new household members)
• Developmental phases: Puppies go through fear periods that can affect sleep; be patient and consistent
• Reinforce daytime training: Increase positive crate experiences during the day
• Growth adjustment: Your puppy may be outgrowing the crate division; adjust as needed

Accidents in the Crate

Challenge: Your puppy eliminates in their crate despite regular potty breaks.

Solutions:

• Size check: Ensure the crate isn’t too large, which might encourage the puppy to use one corner as a bathroom
• Schedule adjustment: Increase the frequency of nighttime potty breaks temporarily
• Clean thoroughly: Use an enzymatic cleaner to completely remove odors that might encourage repeat accidents
• Veterinary check: Rule out urinary tract infections or other medical issues
• Food/water timing: Adjust the timing of last meal and water access

When to Seek Professional Help

While most kennel training challenges can be resolved with patience and consistent training, sometimes professional guidance is necessary.

Signs You Might Need Professional Help

Consider consulting a professional trainer or veterinary behaviorist if:

• Extreme distress: Your puppy shows signs of severe anxiety or panic in the crate
• Self-injury: Your puppy hurts themselves trying to escape the crate
• No progress: Despite weeks of consistent training, your puppy shows no improvement
• Regression: Your puppy regresses significantly after initial success
• Unusual behavior: Your puppy displays concerning behaviors like excessive drooling, pacing, or destructiveness

Types of Professional Help Available

1. Veterinarian: Always start with a veterinary check to rule out medical causes for nighttime distress
2. Certified Dog Trainer: Look for trainers with CPDT-KA, KPA, or similar credentials
3. Veterinary Behaviorist: For severe cases, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist offers the highest level of expertise
4. Online Resources: Many certified trainers offer virtual consultations and training plans

What to Expect from Professional Help

A good professional will:

• Assess your specific situation: They’ll evaluate your puppy’s behavior and your current training approach
• Create a customized plan: You’ll receive a training plan tailored to your puppy’s temperament and needs
• Teach handling techniques: Learn how to respond to different types of nighttime behaviors
• Provide ongoing support: Many trainers offer follow-up sessions to adjust the plan as needed

Success Stories: Light at the End of the Tunnel

While kennel training can be challenging, countless puppy owners have successfully navigated this phase. Here are a few encouraging success stories:

From Howling to Snoring

“He was NOT a happy puppy when he woke up. He cried all night and we let him out several times. The 2nd night he slept in his crate until 4:00 AM. By the 3rd night, he settled in quickly and only needed one potty break. By the end of the week, he was sleeping through the night!” Golden Retriever Forum

Consistency Pays Off

“We have been training her to use her crate every day. When she first arrived we had a small pen attached to the crate so she could pee at night time. By 12 weeks she was fully house trained and now at 16 weeks she sleeps 8 hours straight in her crate with no problems. The key was consistency and patience.”

The Power of Patience

“Our pup goes into her crate for the night around 8:30/9:00pm and then we take her out around 6:15/6:30am. On the weekends, it’s more like 9 to about 7am. She’s 5 months old now and has been sleeping through the night since about 3.5 months old. It took time and patience but now she actually puts herself to bed in her crate when she’s tired in the evening!”

The key takeaways from these success stories are consistency, patience, and understanding that progress often happens gradually rather than overnight.

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Conclusion

Kennel training your puppy at night requires patience, consistency, and an understanding of your puppy’s needs. By creating the right environment, establishing a consistent routine, and responding appropriately to your puppy’s communication, you can help them become comfortable in their crate and develop good sleeping habits that will benefit them throughout their life.

Remember that every puppy is unique. What works for one may not work for another, so be prepared to adjust your approach based on your puppy’s temperament and needs. With time, persistence, and plenty of love, both you and your puppy will be enjoying peaceful nights before you know it.

Have you successfully kennel trained a puppy? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below to help other puppy parents on their training journey!

FAQs

Should I cover my puppy’s crate at night?

Covering the crate on three sides can help create a den-like feeling that many puppies find comforting. Leave the door side uncovered for ventilation. Use a breathable material like a cotton sheet rather than a heavy blanket, especially in warm weather.

Is it cruel to crate a puppy at night?

When done properly, crate training is not cruel. In fact, it provides security and safety for your puppy. The key is to ensure the crate is appropriately sized, comfortable, and that your puppy receives necessary potty breaks. Cruelty would be using the crate as punishment or confining the puppy for excessive periods without breaks.

At what age can puppies typically sleep through the night?

Most puppies can sleep through the night (6-8 hours) by 16-20 weeks of age, though this varies by breed, size, and individual development. Smaller breeds may take longer to develop the bladder control necessary for sleeping through the night.

Should I put water in my puppy’s crate at night?

Generally, it’s not necessary to have water in the crate overnight, especially if your puppy is still working on house training. However, consult with your veterinarian, as some medical conditions require constant access to water.

What is the 10-10-10 rule for potty training puppies?

The 10-10-10 rule refers to: 10 minutes in the yard, 10 feet of potty area in the yard, and 10 minutes of supervision. This structured approach helps puppies understand where and when to eliminate, which can support nighttime crate training success.

What if my puppy has an accident in the crate?

Accidents happen, especially with young puppies. Clean the crate thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove all odors. Don’t punish your puppy for the accident; instead, evaluate whether you need to adjust your potty break schedule or if there might be a medical issue requiring veterinary attention.

How can I tell if my puppy is crying because they need to go out or just want attention?

Need-to-potty crying is often preceded by restlessness, circling, and sniffing. Attention-seeking crying tends to stop and start as the puppy listens for a response. With time and observation, you’ll learn to recognize your puppy’s specific signals.

Until what age should a dog sleep in a crate?

There’s no specific age when a dog must stop sleeping in a crate. Many adult dogs continue to choose their crate as a preferred sleeping spot throughout their lives. Once your dog is fully house-trained and past the destructive chewing phase (typically 1-2 years), you can give them the option of sleeping elsewhere if desired.

Why Is Your Puppy Whining in Crate Nonstop After You Leave? Check out our helpful tips on how to calm your puppy and improve crate training.