Puppy Crying and Whining: Why It Happens and How To Stop It

There are several reasons why your puppy might whine, says Stephanie Wolf, DVM, a veterinarian with The Vets. 

Your puppy will likely whine if they need or want something from you or need your help with something. 

Some of these whines might indicate critical needs like needing to urgently urinate, while others might be for non-critical needs like wanting you to retrieve their favorite toy from under the couch. 

At times, your puppy may whine simply because they want you to pay attention to them. 

This behavior is akin to young children whining when they want their parents to stop what they’re doing and play with them. 

Whining can serve as an indicator that your puppy is feeling scared or anxious. If they’re pacing, trembling, or panting in addition to whining, it’s likely they’re experiencing fear or anxiety about a particular situation. 

This could be due to things like having a new guest in the house or a thunderstorm. Or perhaps they’re concerned because their favorite person is absent or about to leave the house—a behavior called separation anxiety.  

Puppies may whine out of excitement or in anticipation of a positive event. This can occur when guests arrive at the front door, when they see you holding their leash for a walk, or when entering public places. 

In these instances, whining is typically an expression of their enthusiasm and eagerness for the experience. 

Puppies may whine to express dissatisfaction with certain situations, such as being placed in a crate. 

Like humans, dogs have personal preferences and can communicate their displeasure through vocalizations, like whining. By paying attention to these cues, you can better understand your puppy’s needs and work towards creating a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for them. 

Whining can signal that your puppy is experiencing physical discomfort. For instance, if they whine each time they attempt to climb stairs or leap onto the couch, your dog could be suffering from an injured leg. 

When there is no apparent explanation for your dog’s whining (all their needs have been met, and there are no anxiety-inducing factors), it’s advisable to bring them to a veterinarian. A thorough examination can help identify any underlying health issues and ensure your dog receives appropriate care and treatment. 

The key to understanding your puppy’s whining is to look at the big picture—meaning, you need to consider the circumstances surrounding it. 

Understanding why your puppy is whining starts with context. If your puppy cries when in their crate, even though they just had a break for potty and play, their whining may simply mean they don’t want to be crated again. But if they wake from a long nap and start whining, they probably need a potty break—urgently. 

Generally, puppies under 8 weeks need to go outside every one to two hours, and crated pups can hold it for about two hours during the day and slightly longer at night. Proactive potty breaks help prevent accidents and reduce stress. 

Here are some reasons to take action when your puppy whines: 

• They need to go potty: Take them out right away to avoid an accident. 
• They seem in pain: See your vet to rule out injuries or illness. 
• They’re scared (e.g., thunderstorms): Comfort them to prevent escalating anxiety. 
• They show signs of separation anxiety: Work with a dog trainer or behaviorist—this often requires professional guidance. 

When your puppy is quiet, let them know it’s appreciated. Offer treats, praise, or affection to reinforce calm behavior. Just as important: don’t reward whining. If you give attention every time they whine, they’ll learn it works. 

In some cases, it’s OK to ignore whining—especially when it’s attention-seeking. Dr. Wolf says, “Ignoring a whining puppy can help discourage attention-seeking behavior and teach independence.”  

For example: 

• Whining in the crate after a potty break: Ignore the whining and wait for calm before engaging. Offer a toy or treat-filled chew to keep them occupied. 
• Whining for food: Wait until your puppy is quiet before serving their meal. 
• Whining with excitement when you get home: Let them out of the crate only after they’ve calmed down. 

But use your judgment; as we explained above, whining from pain, fear, or a real need shouldn’t be ignored.  

Consistency and patience are key. Reinforce quiet behavior, and your puppy will learn it’s the best way to get your attention. 

Establishing a routine can help your puppy feel more secure and reduce their need to whine for attention. Stick to a regular schedule for feeding, exercise, and playtime, and try to avoid sudden changes that may disrupt your puppy’s routine. 

Puppies have a lot of energy and need plenty of opportunities to burn it off. Make sure your puppy is getting enough exercise and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. This can help reduce their need to whinefor attention. 

Crate training can be a useful tool for reducing whining, as it provides a safe and secure space for your puppy to relax and rest. Make sure your puppy’s crate is comfortable and inviting, and avoid using it as a form of punishment. 

Obedience training isn’t all about learning cute tricks—the real benefit is creating a shared language between you and your puppy. As they learn to do what you ask, it will help build their confidence, which often helps reduce whining behavior.  

Is puppy whining normal? 

Puppy whining is a normal behavior, and most puppies will do it at some point. This is because whining is an innate form of communication for a puppy. Just like a human baby, puppies use whining to communicate to their mother that something is not right or that they need something. 

How do you stop a puppy crying at night? 

Make sure your puppy’s needs are met before bedtime (potty break, food, exercise), then use calming tools like a crate, white noise, or a pheromone diffuser to help them settle. 

What do I do if my puppy is crying in their crate? 

First, ensure they’ve had a potty break and aren’t in distress. If all their needs are met, offer a safe toy or treat to help them settle, and ignore the whining and wait for quiet before giving attention. 

How long does the puppy whining stage last? 

A decrease in whining typically occurs after a puppy is in their new home for about a month. But this timeline can vary depending on the individual puppy and the circumstances in which they are living. Generally, puppies will start to whine less frequently as they become more comfortable and secure in their new environment and routines.   

By decoding your puppy’s whines and addressing their needs, you’re not only making your puppy’s world more comfortable but also nurturing a bond that will last a lifetime.