Crying at Night

Q: Our new puppy cries all night when it's time to go to bed. We put a blanket over her cage, she has a little bit of food and has water. We also made sure she has her warm blanky. All night long she would cry like she was dying only stopping for a half hour or so at a time. Is there anything we can do to make bedtime better so that she's not crying all night?

A: There is only one approach to this situation. Once you put her in to bed walk away and don't go back unless she has been quiet at least 30 minutes. It does help to be sure there is an opportunity for food and water at least one hour prior and an extended period of exercise right before bedtime. It is important to understand she is not crying because she hates the cage she is crying because she is away from you. She will learn that it is okay because you will return, but not until after she sleeps. If you stick to the routine it usually takes about 3-5 days, if you give in it will take longer and longer.