How to stop 9-week puppy separation anxiety and crying at night?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Cockapoo | Male | 2 months and 9 days old
I have a 9 week old puppy who we have had for over a week now. He seems to have extreme separation anxiety and cries for a majority of the night. He has also began to cry if left alone for short periods (10mins) during the day. We do not give him attention when he cries, and have not been going to see him during the night as we've been told this reinforces the behaviour. We are running out of ideas, any help?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on October 9th, 2017
Hi and thanks for your post on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry to hear Leo is having some separation anxiety. A few more tips that can help would be to freeze a Kong stuffed with low fat peanut butter or low fat plain yogurt to give to him for hours of entertainment a few mins before you leave. The Adaptil pheromone spray can help if you spray this around his bedding or crate 15 mins before you leave. Another suggestion are calming chews such the ones made by VetriScience (Composure) you can give him daily to help with anxiety. Lastly, never make a big deal out of leaving. Say your goodbyes 1/2 hour before you leave and never right before. This can make matters worse for Leo. I hope these tips help and best of luck to you and Leo!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 10th, 2019
Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do if you aren't there to be with Leo. Leaving behind something that smells like you, such as a shirt, or trying to find a housing situation you can bring him along to may help. I would also encourage you to get whoever is watching him during the week to start spending more time with Leo so they can bond, as well as look into some articles below on separation anxiety. https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/separation-anxiety/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/top-5-ways-to-reduce-separation-anxiety-in-dogs/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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