Introduction
It can be alarming for dog owners when a pet that is normally quiet and content in their crate suddenly begins crying and whining at night. This article will examine some of the possible reasons behind this behavior change in dogs, and provide tips for how to address it.
We’ll look at some of the most common causes of nighttime crate whining in previously crate-trained adult and senior dogs. These include health problems, insufficient daytime activity, attention-seeking behavior, separation anxiety, cognitive decline, fears and phobias. The article outlines these issues in detail and suggests both training techniques and lifestyle changes to help resolve unwanted crying and whining.
By understanding why this behavior may be occurring, owners can take steps to make their dog feel more comfortable and secure in their crate at night. Our goal is to provide dog owners with actionable advice so they and their pets can get a good night’s sleep.
Changes in Environment
Changes in a dog’s environment, such as moving homes, having new family members, or renovations to their living space, can cause them to feel insecure or distressed and cry at night.
Moving to a new home is very unsettling for dogs, as everything is unfamiliar – the sights, sounds, smells, layout, etc. This sudden change from the comfort of their old home to an unknown new environment can create anxiety. According to FamilyPups, a puppy or dog may pace, pant, lick their lips, and whine or bark when distressed about their new surroundings.
Likewise, major renovations or remodeling a home can also worry some dogs. The construction noises, workers in the home, furnishings being moved – it disrupts their formerly calm and stable environment. Some dogs may whine or bark at night as they struggle to adjust.
Adding a new family member, whether a new baby, child, or another pet, can also upset a dog’s routine. They will likely need time to get comfortable with the major change to their pack or family. An older dog who is no longer the center of attention may act out with nighttime whining or crying.
Health Issues
As dogs age, they can develop health problems that may cause them to vocalize more at night. Two common age-related health issues that could lead to nighttime whining are:
Arthritis – Joint pain and stiffness from arthritis often worsen at night and after periods of inactivity, which can cause whining when your dog moves around or changes positions. According to one source, arthritis pain is a common reason senior dogs whine and whimper at night (https://tailschirocare.com/why-is-my-dog-whining-at-night-for-no-reason/).
Cognitive dysfunction – Canine cognitive dysfunction is similar to dementia in elderly humans. It can cause confusion, anxiety, changes in sleep patterns, and vocalization, especially at night. Wandering around whining may indicate your dog is disoriented and anxious.
Other health issues like urinary tract infections, digestive issues, dental problems, muscle strains, and allergies can also cause discomfort leading to nighttime whining. If your dog was not prone to whining but suddenly starts, get them checked by a vet to rule out medical causes.
Insufficient Daytime Exercise
It’s important that dogs receive adequate physical and mental stimulation during the day through exercise, playtime, training, and enrichment activities. Puppies and younger dogs especially have a lot of pent-up energy and will become restless if they don’t have enough productive outlets during their waking hours. Older dogs also need daily exercise tailored to their age and physical abilities.
Lack of sufficient daytime activity can lead to boredom and frustration, causing a dog to act out with whining, barking, destruction, or other undesirable behaviors. Ensuring your dog gets enough exercise is key to avoiding annoying behaviors at night when you want them to settle down and sleep.Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity per day based on age and breed. This gives them an outlet and satisfies their needs so they are calmer at night. Physical exercise also leads to better sleep.
In addition to physical activity, dogs need mental stimulation through training, puzzles, and play. Work their brain during the day too with obedience, scent games, food puzzles, and more. A tired dog is a good dog, so make sure to meet their needs.
Attention-Seeking Behavior
One of the most common reasons a dog will cry in their crate at night is because they have learned it gets them attention and rewards. If a dog cries or whines and their owner consistently responds by letting them out, giving them affection, or otherwise reacting, the dog is being reinforced for that behavior. They learn that crying and whining leads to good things. According to a Reddit user, “If you reward for calm, positively associate the crate properly, and do a lot of other positive reinforcement in different areas throughout the day, it will get better over time.”1 Dogs want attention and activity, so they will try crying and whining in the crate to get their owner to let them out as a reward.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is one of the most common reasons for a dog to start exhibiting anxious behaviors like crying and howling at night when confined to their crate (Source). Dogs with separation anxiety panic when left alone because of a change in their routine. For example, a puppy that was surrounded by littermates may become distressed when separated from them. Or an adult dog rehomed from a busy household may become anxious when left alone in a new quiet home.
Dogs that have developed a strong attachment to their owner can become extremely distressed when that person leaves. Separation anxiety tends to escalate at night, when there are fewer household noises and distractions. A dog with separation anxiety left alone in a crate may vocalize their panic by crying, whining, barking, or howling persistently.
Cognitive Decline
As dogs age, they can develop cognitive issues like dementia or disorientation that may cause increased nighttime vocalizing or crying (Toegrips). Dementia is progressive and causes memory, learning, perception, and awareness problems in senior dogs (WebMD). The symptoms often worsen at night, when the dog feels more anxious or confused. Dogs with dementia may pace restlessly, seem lost or stare blankly, vocalize for no reason, or have difficulty sleeping through the night (Toegrips). Dementia can cause them to become disoriented about where they are and separation anxiety when left alone. Their nighttime crying or whining is often related to anxiety, fear, frustration, disorientation and loss of house training. If your older dog is vocalizing at night due to dementia or cognitive decline, there are some things you can try to help them feel more secure, like keeping lights on at night, playing calming music, using pheromone diffusers, or having them sleep in your bedroom. But dementia is progressive, so you may eventually need to discuss quality of life considerations and euthanasia options with your vet.
Fears and Phobias
Dogs can develop new fears and phobias as they age that may cause crying or other distress at night. Common triggers include:
- Storms – Thunder, lightning, wind, and rain can all provoke fear and anxiety in dogs. The noise and flashes of light are alarming. Some dogs may pace, pant, whine or hide during storms.
- Noises – Loud or unfamiliar sounds like fireworks, construction, or traffic can startle dogs. Noise sensitivity tends to increase as dogs get older.
- Being alone – Senior dogs may experience separation anxiety and fear when left alone at night, especially if a change has occurred like a new home or loss of another pet.
- Disorientation – Cognitive decline can cause dogs to feel confused at night in unfamiliar or changed surroundings.
If new phobias develop, crying in the crate may be your dog’s way of expressing fear and seeking comfort. Creating a calming environment and positive crate association can help ease anxiety.
Tips to Address Behavior
There are several ways to help address nighttime crying in a crate and reinforce positive crate training:
First, make sure your dog is comfortable with the crate during the day by providing treats and toys inside and gradually building up time spent inside with the door closed (see this guide). Provide plenty of exercise, playtime, and potty breaks during the day to tire them out before bedtime.
When your dog cries at night, avoid rewarding the behavior by letting them out or giving attention. You can try waiting for a lull in crying before quietly praising and giving a treat. It may help to cover the crate at night to make it more den-like and cozy.
Check with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues causing discomfort or pain. Seek professional behavioral advice if separation anxiety is suspected.
Be patient and consistent with positive reinforcement techniques. It may take some time, but your dog will learn to settle at night as long as their needs are met during the day.
When to Seek Help
If your dog’s nighttime crying persists for more than a few nights or seems severe, it’s best to enlist the help of your veterinarian. Persistent crying could indicate an underlying medical issue causing discomfort or pain. Some conditions that can cause nighttime crying include arthritis, dental problems, urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal issues, and cognitive dysfunction. Your vet can give your dog a thorough exam to diagnose and treat any conditions.
You may also want to speak with a certified professional dog trainer or behaviorist if your dog’s night crying continues despite addressing any potential medical issues. A trainer can help you implement positive reinforcement techniques to manage separation anxiety, fears, and other triggers. Persistent crying warrants a vet visit to address potential underlying issues. Professional training is recommended if the behavior persists despite your best efforts to correct it.
Don’t let your dog’s nighttime crying go on too long without addressing it. With patience and proper guidance from your vet or trainer, you can get to the bottom of the issue and help your dog feel comfortable and calm at night once again.