| The First Night |
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| The First Night Puppies have a natural instinct inside that are alone. Its because dogs are social creatures, much like humans. When they’re alone, they may feel nervous or frightened. Before dogs were made into mans best friend, they ran the land in wild packs. They hunted ate and slept together. When you leave your puppy alone at night, especially during his first few weeks at his new home, he is getting used to the environment. He’ll most likely whine or cry. It could last the whole nightlong. The best thing you can do is to soothe him, but not cuddle him to sleep. Remember, you’re trying to establish your role as leader and caretaker. There is a different time to cuddle. There is, however, a lot you can do to help put your new dog to sleep, to make him feel comfortable in his new environment. Don’t throw in the towel too early! Instead, try throwing him one of your laundered t-shirts to sleep beside. In his puppy room or crate, he’ll surely feel like you’re near when he smells your shirt close. It will be as if there is someone beside him, as if his mother were with him in the wild outdoors. If this fails, try moving his puppy crate to your bedroom for the night. If he continues to whine, try tapping the cage once forcefully. Then, in a low firm voice say, No. Sleep, or No. Quiet. This may sound harsh, but if you snuggle or cuddle him to sleep, you will actually be re-enforcing his whining behavior. He’ll associate his whine with your loving attention. Try throwing in a chew toy for him to suckle on. One thing will always surely help: be sure your puppy eliminates and is played with vigorously before bedtime so hes not riled up. Much of this can be applied to older dogs too. You may not have to take him out as often, but be sure to allow him to go to the bathroom and receive some attention before bedtime. In any case, you will have to teach your puppy or pooch that he will be soothed and loved, but that there are bedtime rules. It will seem like a lot of work, and you may lose some sleep. But, take your time. And, before you know it, your puppy or dog will sleep soundly, which will allow you and your family to sleep the whole night through. The first night is always best to get some earplugs, it helps as much as anything. |
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