Crate Training a Whining Puppy

Crate training is a useful way to speed up housetraining for dogs and puppies. While traditionally seen as cruel, crate training can actually provide your puppy with a safe place to call his own. Whining is a common problem dog owners face when crate training their puppies. It is possible to stop the whining and make the crate a safe, cozy place for your puppy to escape, nap and spend some time alone.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Dog food
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Introduce the crate slowly. Start by feeding your puppy in the crate with the door open. Place the bowls near the crate if your puppy refuses to go in. Move the bowls slightly closer each mealtime until your puppy is comfortable being in the crate at mealtimes with the door open.

    • 2

      Shut the door for a few seconds, then open it and release your puppy. Gradually increase the amount of time your puppy is in the crate with the door shut.

    • 3

      Leave the room for a few seconds once your puppy is comfortable with the door closed. Gradually increase the length of time you are out of the room until your puppy is comfortable being in the crate by himself for 30 minutes.

    • 4

      Take your puppy out regularly for potty breaks. Dogs and puppies tend to get the urge to eliminate after eating, drinking, napping and playing, so take her out after these events. If your puppy whines in the crate at night, clip on her leash and take her outside to potty, returning her immediately after the toilet break.

    • 5

      Ignore any attention-seeking whining that occurs after your puppy's toilet trip. Wait until the whining stops and then praise your puppy and release him from the crate if appropriate.