Why A Dog Cries At Night
Let's face it, no one likes to hear a dog cry through the night. It can be disruptive to your family and your neighbors. Dogs cry through the night when they need to be reassured. Dogs are pack animals and need to be with either a dog family or their people family to feel safe and comfortable. Without contact they get lonely and will cry out for that reason. They need a comfortable, den-like place of their own.
Dogs also need plenty of social time during the day, much like people do. If you work all day and have evening plans, expect your dog to have a rough night because he is in need of attention. Taking time out during the day or enrolling him in doggie daycare may do the trick.
What to Do When Your Dog Cries At Night
First, try ignoring the behavior. If the crying doesn't stop you will have to make different sleeping arrangements for the dog and gradually work up to leaving the dog alone through the night. A spare room with the door closed is one option.
If you don't mind sleeping with your dog, this can offer a perfect solution because your dog is able to feel like he is a direct part of the family and he will feel how important he is to you. Co-sleeping isn't for everyone though, and if this doesn't interest you, you can set up a crate in your bedroom where the dog can sleep. In addition to being pack animals, dog are also den animals. Creating a den for your dog to call his own with soft bedding and toys may solve the crying problem.Another way to comfort your dog is to offer items for him to snuggle with. A simple option is to let him use a piece of clothing or blanket that has your scent on it. A Snuggle Puppy is another alternative. This is a stuffed dog that comes with a warming pack and a life-like heartbeat. There can be especially helpful when a dog cries at night because they miss the nurturing their mother provided.
