How to stop a puppy from barking in a crate at night

Crate training a puppy can feel like you're trying to solve the mystery of the universe with a squeaky toy and some treats. Some puppies get the hang of it in no time—like Dublin, who after a few whimpers, settled in as though the crate was his new best friend. Others, like Stetson, will make you question your life choices during the first few weeks. But don’t worry, you're not alone, and there’s a way out of this crate chaos.

I’ve been there, done that, and got the paw prints on my favorite sneakers to prove it. Over the years, I’ve learned more than a few tricks about crate training that have saved my sanity. We’re talking about the kind of knowledge that’ll help you and your pup get through those early, often noisy, and sometimes downright frustrating nights. And for those pups who take longer to adjust (looking at you, stubborn tail-waggers), I’ve got your back with practical tips to get them to chill in the crate.

The Basics: Start Crate Training Right from the Start

You’re bringing home your new puppy. Maybe it’s your first puppy, or you’re a seasoned pro at this point, but either way, crate training starts from day one. This is when you lay the foundation for good habits, so don’t skip these steps.

Why Crate Training Works

Think of the crate as a cozy den for your pup. It’s not a prison; it’s a safe space where they can retreat, rest, and relax. For a puppy, a crate can be a lifesaver for both you and them. Done right, it becomes a comfort zone, not a punishment. In fact, puppies are naturally den animals. When used correctly, the crate becomes a sanctuary for your dog, a place where they can feel secure and protected from the chaos of daily life.

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The Crate: Size Matters

When choosing a crate, size is key. If the crate’s too big, your puppy might start thinking it’s an indoor bathroom. The perfect crate size should allow enough room for your pup to stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably. If it's too large, consider adding a divider to create a more snug space.

The First Night

Your puppy’s first night can feel like a battle. But the secret is to be patient and consistent. Place the crate in your bedroom, so your puppy doesn’t feel isolated. Let them see you, hear you, and get used to your presence. This will help them feel safe and secure. A blanket or towel in the crate can help with comfort, but be mindful of sneaky chewers—those blankets will be devoured faster than you can say "good boy!"

Building Positive Associations with the Crate

Start by making the crate a fun and rewarding place. Feed your puppy in the crate, play with them around it, and make sure they associate the crate with good things. If your puppy is whining or barking, avoid giving them attention until they’ve calmed down. If you rush to open the crate as soon as they start making noise, you might inadvertently reinforce the barking behavior.

Dealing with the Barking Drama

So your puppy starts barking in the crate? Yeah, we’ve all been there. It can be tempting to rush in and soothe them, but here’s the thing: if you give them attention every time they bark, they’ll learn that barking equals a visit from you. It’s like teaching your puppy that they’re in charge of the household noise level. So how do you stop the barking?

1. Routine is Key

Establish a consistent routine with feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and crate time. A structured schedule helps your puppy feel secure because they know what to expect. If they know it’s almost bedtime and then crate time, they’re less likely to bark out of confusion.

2. Tire Them Out

Playtime is a game-changer. A tired puppy is much more likely to settle in their crate without much fuss. A good game of fetch or a quick walk can make all the difference when it’s time for bed. If your puppy is mentally and physically exhausted, they’ll be more inclined to sleep soundly.

3. Comfort in the Crate

Make sure the crate is a comfy, safe space. Add a blanket, some chew toys, and maybe even a stuffed Kong with some tasty treats inside. Giving your puppy something to occupy their mind can distract them from the desire to bark. Just make sure the toys are safe for unsupervised play.

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4. Use the Power of Scent

If your puppy is particularly upset, try adding something that smells familiar, like a blanket or plush toy that’s been with their littermates. You can even buy toys like the Calmeroos Puppy Toy, which mimics a heartbeat and warmth, helping your pup feel like they’re cuddling with a littermate. It's like giving your puppy a little piece of home.

5. Gradual Crate Time

Start slow. Don’t expect your puppy to go from crate novice to seasoned pro overnight. Begin by closing the crate door for just a few minutes at a time while you’re in the room, then gradually increase the duration. This gives your pup time to adjust and learn that being in the crate is no big deal.

Tricks to Tame the Stubborn Barkers

Okay, so you've got a puppy who doesn’t quite get the memo about crate time being a peaceful experience. They’re barking, they’re whining, and you’re at your wit's end. Here’s where you need some advanced strategies to turn things around.

6. The "Don't Respond" Approach

If your puppy’s barking for attention, one of the best ways to break the habit is to not give in. This means no eye contact, no talking to them, and absolutely no opening the crate when they’re making noise. It may feel harsh, but consistency is key. Eventually, they’ll learn that barking doesn’t bring the rewards they’re seeking.

7. Soothing Sounds

Some puppies are more sensitive to their environment. If the barking is due to outside noise, consider playing soothing music or white noise to drown out distractions. Many dogs find classical music or soft piano tunes calming, so it’s worth a shot.

8. Consider DAP (Dog Appeasing Pheromones)

For dogs who are especially anxious in their crate, DAP can be a game-changer. These pheromones mimic the comforting scent of a mother dog, which can have a calming effect on your puppy. There are diffusers you can plug into the room or sprays that can be applied to bedding.

9. Crate Time = "Me Time" for Your Dog

Crating doesn’t have to be all work and no play. When your puppy is in their crate and being quiet, offer lots of praise and a few treats. Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Your puppy will start to understand that being calm in the crate gets them the good stuff.

10. Adjust Crate Placement

Sometimes the solution is as simple as moving the crate. If your puppy is barking because they feel isolated, try moving the crate closer to where you are, or even closer to the bedroom if you’re not already doing so. Gradually, you can move the crate further away once your puppy gets used to it.

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Crate Training: The Long Game

Let’s face it: crate training a puppy isn’t an overnight success story. It takes time, patience, and some trial and error. But if you stick with it, you’ll eventually have a pup who thinks their crate is the coziest little retreat in the house.

Remember, crate training is about building a positive association. The crate should be a sanctuary, not a punishment. And when you encounter a barking session (because let’s be honest, there will be barking), stay calm and consistent. Your puppy will get there—it just takes a little time and a lot of patience.

So, whether you’re dealing with a howling pup like Stetson or a quick learner like Dublin, know that crate training is a journey, and with the right tools and mindset, you’ll get through it together.

And if all else fails, just remember: Even the most stubborn pups can become crate pros—just ask my old dog Linus, who’s still lounging in his crate over 17 years later.

Thanks for your reading.