Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My new puppy screams and cries when left alone. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 4 months and 5 days old | 3.14 lbs

I have a new Puppy. She is a tiny MalShi. 3 lbs. She is 14 weeks old. I have had her now for 1 1/2 weeks. I can't leave her sight as if I do she screams. I crate her and leave her and she whines and screams and cries for hours. Like someone is hurting her. I have tried everything and read about leaving her for short amounts of times and start training but nothing has worked. i go back to work next week and she will be by herself until I get home.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 1st, 2018

Begin with crating her for very short periods of time. Gradually increase that time as she acclimates. This will take time and requires patience and consistency. Offer a special toy or treat as a distraction. Praise and reward her as she acclimates. A pheromone product, such as the Adaptil collar or DAP plug in diffuser, may help to decrease anxiety. This same method can be used to acclimate her to your absence. Additionally, you can prepare to leave several times daily then put everything away and stay or actually leave. Upon your return, ignore Lily Belle for 15 minutes or until she is calm. Do not make a big deal about coming or going. Consider a pet day care program or having a dog walker visit during the day. At her age, she should not be crated for more than 5 hours before being let out to relieve herself. This time can increase as she matures. The general rule is 1 hour of crate time per month of age plus an additional hour.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is it normal for a pregnant guinea pig to zoom after cage cleaning?
Is your pregnant guinea pig running in circles after a cage cleaning? A trusted vet explains if this is normal and what to watch for during her 59-72 day gestation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored