TRAINING & BEHAVIOUR

How to crate train a puppy that cries

When a puppy cries in the crate, check their immediate needs and how they are coping, then make the training step easier. Start with the door open and reward voluntary exploration before adding brief, comfortable door closures. Do not use prolonged crying as the training plan. A puppy learning to rest separately may need reassurance and overnight toilet opportunities; persistent distress deserves help from your veterinarian or a qualified behaviour professional.

By PostPuppies editorial · Updated November 3, 2026

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Before another training attempt, check the setup

PDSA’s veterinary advice warns against leaving a new puppy to “cry it out.” First consider whether they need you, a toilet opportunity or help settling. New surroundings and separation can be difficult; a crying puppy is not evidence of deliberate misbehaviour.

Check that the puppy is well and has their immediate care needs met.
Check temperature, noise and the resting surface.
Confirm who is supervising and who responds overnight.
Choose a practice time when you can stay and observe.

Further reading: PDSA vets: Why puppies cry at night.

Build up the skill in small steps

RSPCA recommends positive associations, gradual progress and never using the crate as punishment. Let the puppy investigate an open crate before working on comfortable door closures. Move on only when the current step is going well.

A progression to adapt to your puppy
Stage	Practice	Ready to move on when…
Open door	Reward voluntary approach and entry	The puppy enters comfortably
Settling nearby	Stay near while they relax in the open crate	They can settle without being pressured
Brief closure	Introduce a short, comfortable door closure	They remain comfortable
Small distance	Increase distance gradually	The earlier step remains easy

Separate training practice from the overnight plan

Write down where the puppy will rest, who responds and how to reach the agreed toilet area. The first-night guide helps with that household planning. A daytime practice session does not establish how long an individual puppy can be left overnight.

Record what happened rather than guessing a cause: when crying began, what had just changed and what happened after you responded. Bring that record to a professional if the pattern persists.

A different crate is not automatically the solution

Before buying, measure the dog and check the model’s instructions. A change in material or door layout might solve a practical access problem, but it is not a treatment for separation-related distress.

For an eight-week-old puppy, focus on comfortable introductory steps. For a larger puppy who can already climb or push barriers, ask for advice on suitable supervision and equipment. Stop relying on any setup where the puppy risks injury.

Common questions

Should I ignore a puppy crying in the crate at night?

Check their needs and comfort rather than applying a blanket rule to ignore them. PDSA advises against leaving a puppy to cry it out.

How long should I leave an 8-week-old puppy crying?

This guide does not prescribe a crying interval. Respond to their needs and make the practice easier. Ongoing distress calls for individual professional advice.

Will a bigger crate stop the crying?

Not necessarily. Check fit and practical comfort, but crying can have several causes. Buying equipment is not a substitute for a gradual training and care plan.

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Training & behaviour