Puppy Whining - How To Deal With It

Posted by Puppy Trainer on April 27th, 2009 filed in Dogs

Puppy whining comes very naturally to puppies when they are hungry, cold or tired. The mother dog will react to puppy whining by providing warmth, milk, and a secure sleeping place.

Over time, the puppy will begin to associate the two actions and will start to whine on purpose. This lets the puppy’s mother know that something is wrong or he needs something.

Puppy adoption should occur between eight and ten weeks of age. It’s at this time that puppies learn that their whining doesn’t have any impact with their new family; or they may use whining to influence their new mother (you!) into giving them what they require.

It is for this reason that the general opinion is that a new puppy should be left alone on his first night in your home. If you react to puppy whining with sympathy, cooing, cuddling etc., your dog is certain to feel that whining will get him what he wants.

For a great course to stop your dog from whining, I suggest that you check out: Puppy Whining.

Of course, this will require good judgment and common sense on your part. A frightened puppy will need affection, reassurance and attention. It is key that you react quickly so the puppy doesn’t feel that his whining got the desired result. Your pup must not be conditioned to whine every time he wants something.

You should teach your puppy to be comfortable with isolation and privacy by leaving him alone even when you are at home. This will help to stop separation anxiety in your puppy when you leave him alone. As soon as you know that all your puppy’s physical needs have been met and you have taken the time to get him used to isolation, then you must teach him that whining is unacceptable.

This does not mean that a puppy that is highly distressed, whining, and crying should be cruelly ignored. When he has stopped whining, you should show him some attention and calm him down. Some puppies whine for an extended period of time so it is not always feasible to wait until they have stopped whining.

If this is the case, there is no need to prolong your puppy’s suffering – seize your chance when he stops whining, if just for a few seconds, and open the door of the crate. This is certainly not ideal but, under the circumstances, it’s probably the best you’ll be able to do.

Most dogs have grown out of puppy whining by the time they are six months old. A puppy that continues to whine after this period is either doing it instinctively, or has learnt that it helps to get him what he wants.

For more details on how to deal with puppy whining, visit Stop Dog Whining.