How to stop a puppy from crying and whining

Puppies cry and whine for many reasons. They can't tell you what they need, so crying is how they communicate. A young puppy is also adjusting to life away from their mother and littermates, and needs plenty of reassurance as they get used to their new family and home.

Try not to get annoyed if your puppy whimpers a lot. Instead, try to work out what's wrong. How you respond now can shape their behaviour later on. If your puppy seems unwell or in pain at any point, take them to the vet straight away.

Here are some common reasons puppies cry, and what you can do.

They're lonely

Dogs are sociable, some more than others, and a puppy can feel needy while they adjust to being away from their mother and litter.

• If you're busy around the house, move their bed or crate closer to you.
• When the family is together in one room, bring your puppy's bed in too, or let them sit with you for a cuddle if they're small enough.

Often, just knowing you're nearby is enough to calm your puppy down. If you need to move around, you could carry a small puppy in a secure pet sling designed for dogs. The warmth and closeness can help settle your pup.

They're scared

As your puppy grows, they'll want to explore. Everything is new, and some things will seem a little frightening. A scared puppy may cower, whimper or run away from something unfamiliar, such as a backpack or an umbrella.

Many puppies go through fearful phases as they develop, so an object they were fine with yesterday may worry them today.

Watch your puppy closely. Are they cowering or shaking? Are they avoiding looking at you or the object? If so, they're probably frightened and need help to build confidence.

Don't force them closer. Instead, try again later with a gentler experience. For example, if your puppy cowers when they meet your neighbour, introduce them again the next day but from further away. Reward calm behaviour.

They need the toilet

Young puppies can't hold on for long, and crying or whining can be a sign that they need to go. Take your puppy outside regularly, especially after they wake up, after meals, after play and before bed. Praise them when they go outside.

They're hungry

Puppies need several small meals a day. A regular feeding routine helps your puppy know when food is coming, and can reduce crying around mealtimes. Ask your vet how much and how often to feed your puppy.

Crying at night

The first nights in a new home can be hard for a puppy, who may never have slept away from their littermates before.

• Put their bed or crate in your bedroom, or close by, for the first few nights, so they know you're near.
• Make the bed warm and comfortable.
• Take them out to the toilet just before bed, and again in the night if they wake and cry.
• Keep night-time trips quiet and calm, then settle them straight back into bed.

As your puppy grows in confidence, you can gradually move their bed to where you'd like them to sleep.

When to get help

If the fearful behaviour persists or worsens, speak to your vet, who can refer you to a qualified behaviourist.