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Why is my new puppy hiding in his kennel on the first day?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 8 lbs

My new puppy doesn’t want to come out of his kennel, I’ve had him for a whole day now, is this normal ?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 11th, 2018

He is away from his mommy and his siblings for the first time. He is in a place foreign to him. He feels all alone and lonely. The kennel feels safest for him at this time. Give him time to come out by himself. Put his food and water outside, near the kennel. He will likely come out at night to eat and drink. Let him check out the place and be nice to him. It will take time, but he will come around.

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