How to Train Your Puppy at Night

There are few animals more irresistible than a new puppy. Even though they look cute, housebreaking a puppy and training him to sleep quietly through the night can be a chore. Crate training a new pup at night can solve these problems. A crate is a plastic or metal enclosure used for transporting a pet or as a short-term bed or a safe space to keep the pup to prevent him from ransacking furniture and other household items.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog Crate
  • Towels
  • Dog Treats
  • Puppy Toys
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a crate for your puppy. Purchase a standard 24-inch dog crate for dogs 25 pounds or less. The crate should be big enough for the puppy to stand up, sit down, sleep and turn around. The puppy needs to recognize it as his bed, not a playroom or place to relieve himself. Place pet bedding, cushions or towels in it to make a comfortable bed. Put the crate in or near a living room or other area where your family congregates.

    • 2

      Introduce the puppy to the crate. Speak to him in an affectionate and cheerful tone. Entice the dog to the door by dropping a favorite treat or toy next to the crate. Move slowly and naturally. Don't be in a rush to get the puppy inside the crate. Continue placing toys and treats near or just inside the crate until the puppy feels comfortable enough to go inside. Depending on your pup's temperament, this may take hours or a few nights. When he walks into the crate, praise him and give him a pat on the head. Then you can close the door behind him.

    • 3

      Bring your puppy outside to relieve himself just before bedtime. Walk the puppy for 10 or 15 minutes. Do this at the same time each night, and allow the puppy enough time to urinate and defecate.

    • 4

      Stay within earshot of the crate at night. This will ensure that you'll hear the puppy if he whimpers to be let outside. He'll also feel happier if he knows his master is close to him. Place a favorite toy in the crate to help the puppy relax at bedtime.

    • 5

      Tell your pet it's time to go to his "bed" (or whatever name you use for the crate.) Use a treat to entice him into the crate if he hesitates. Always praise him when he enters the crate. Ignore initial fussing. Crate training takes time and the puppy will probably fuss at first. If he cries, avoid bringing him into the bed with you. This will spoil him and make crate training more difficult.

    • 6

      Walk your puppy at the same time every morning. Puppies have a natural alarm clock and will probably wake you up in the morning. Praise him when he relieves himself outside and when he returns to the crate. Give him a treat when he gets into the crate to reinforce this behavior.