6 Thoughts on “How to Kennel Train Your Puppy at Night: A Step-by-Step Schedule for Getting Pooch to Sleep Through the Night.”
Why Kennel Training?
One of the best ways to make puppy feel at home is with crate or kennel training. This not only makes the pup feel secure, but gives you peace of mind that they’re not up to no good while you sleep. Kennel training when done right is structure and trust building and also eases potty training.
The Pre-Night of the Living Fedoras Prep Build Up
Choosing the Right Model/Size of Kennel
Get the kennel size right the first night. It should be only big enough to allow the puppy to stand up, turn around and lay down. And offer them too much space and they may designate a “potty corner.” Wire crates with a divider are ideal as your puppy grows.
Create a Cozy, Welcoming Space
Use soft bedding in the crate, with a favorite toy thrown in and maybe one of your clothing items to comfort with your scent. A cover on the crate can simulate a den and be more secure and restful.
Establish a Pre-Bedtime Routine
Dogs thrive on structure. A regular wind-down routine signals to your puppy it will soon be bedtime. Include things like:
- Visit the toilet once, 30-60 minutes prior to bedtime
- A play session or walk
- Very light training or quiet petting to settle the anxious dog
- One more potty break before going in the crate
The Ideal Nighttime Schedule for Kennel Training
7:00 PM – Activity and Eating Around This Time Uncomment
Feed your puppy early in the evening so it has time to digest and go potty before the sun goes down. Limit food for up to two hours before you put them in their crate to keep overnight accidents to a minimum.
8 PM – PLAY & BONDING
I have a blast playing with blocks with my kids, it helps me get away and forget about life’s stresses of the day if only for 5 minutes.
Play gently with your puppy. Games and toys such as tug-of-war, treat training and puzzle toys are perfect for keeping their minds busy without over stimulating them.
9 PM – Last Food or Water (Depending on the Age)
Dogs under 12-weeks may also still need a light evening snack. If not, it’s time to take out their water bowl now. Another excellent blog to carry us into the month of Mac: Drink less in the p.m. = less walking to bathroom at night.
9:30 PM – Quiet Time and Final Potty Break
Begin dimming the lights, turning off screens, using a softer voice. Take your pup for one last potty break in a quiet, dark location.
10:00 PM – Crate Time
Lure your dog out of it’s crate using a treat or a toy. Trying to stick to a single cue (such as “bedtime”) consistently. Don’t linger. Slowly close the door and walk away, gently reminding them that sleep time is natural — not a punishment.
Managing the First Few Nights
Expect Some Whining or Barking
It’s perfectly normal for puppies to cry the first few nights. They are no longer among their own “K-9” family, They’re with their whole litter, and everything’s strange. Don’t run in there the moment they cry; give them a minute or two to see if they can settle themselves down.
When to Respond
If the crying continues, or is accompanied by frantic barking, a short potty break will set you both up for success — don’t introduce any play or talk until after he has peed and pooped. If they do not, bring them back to the crate immediately.
Keep the Crate Nearby
You could always start with the crate in your room. And in general, your presence will reassure the dog and will allow you to hear if your pet is attempting to communicate with you that they need to go out. You can gradually work back to the distance.
Sample Schedule First Week
Time
Activity
6:30 PM
Dinner
7:00 PM
Play & interaction
8:00 PM
Wind-down time
8:30 PM
Last water intake
9:00 PM
Quiet time & potty
9:30 PM
Into the crate
2:00 AM
Potty break if needed
6:00 AM
Wake-up and potty
You can shed this in-the-dead-of-night potty run as your pup gets bigger.
New and Improved Techniques of Night Time Crate Training
Use Calming Aids (If Needed)
Some puppies fare well with a white noise machine or calming pheromone sprays (like Adaptil). A ticking clock wrapped in a blanket is also heartbeatesque, which may have a calming effect on them.
The Crate Is Not for Punishment
The crate should be a happy place. Not ever, and not inside at all. Combine it with snacks and toys and some time home alone.
Be Lavish with Morning Good Behavior
Even if your puppy didn’t make a sound in the crate at all last night, you should act as if it’s Christmas morning. Get them out Animatedly, Praise them.” This serves as a reminder that when we sleep well, great things happen.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
My Puppy Won’t Sleep at Night and Cries
Stay consistent. Take them out of their puppy pen only to go potty and put them back in the pen immediately. If they’re clean and full, crying most likely results from anxiety about a new environment. Be patient.
My Puppy Is Soiling the Crate
This is often a poor crate or incomplete potty routine. Reevaluating your evening regime and creating less space by using a cage divider.
Puppy Sleeping All Day, Up All Night
Make sure your pup is being stimulated and exercised during the day. 5 Limit long caumo during the day, especially late afternoon or evening.
When Will My Puppy Be Able to Sleep Through the Night?
(Getty file) Most puppies sleep after they have eaten and played, sleep well through the night after 12-16 weeks of living or sleeping with you, although it could be more or less depending on your pup. Stick to your routine, be patient, appreciate the small wins.
Final Thoughts: The Long-Term Payoff
The first few nights of kennel training can be difficult. It pays off. This teaches dogs to feel safe in their spot, makes them more manageable when traveling and at the vet, and less likely to rip your house to shreds while you’re sleeping.
When it comes to teaching kids to look up from their screens on demand, your best bets are consistency, patience and positive reinforcement. And don’t forget, this isn’t just about making it through the night — it’s about establishing good habits in your pup’s life.
