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How to stop my 8-week puppy from crying at night in her crate?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | 14 lbs

My eigt week puppy is her second week home and she crys at nights she doesnt want the crate i take her to the bathroom put her back in she crys and i take her out again snd she just lays down on the floor wanting to sleep why is she being like that?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 2nd, 2020

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Congratulations on your new puppy. Crate training is an excellent tool for puppies (as well as adult dogs), but some dogs take easier to crate training than others. If Luna is having issues adjusting to being in a crate, it is important to make the crate a positive association for her. Leave the door open, and intermittently throughout the day place treats inside so she is able to go in, eat, and then walk back out freely when she is done. I also would recommend leaving the door open and feeding her all her meals in the crate as well. When she goes in the crate, be sure to praise her extensively. When it is time for her to be crated, place treats or a toy stuffed with peanut butter, etc to make it a positive experience. If you are still having issues or concerns, I would recommend either reaching out to your regular veterinarian or setting up a behavior consult for further advice. Good luck!

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