Why do puppies cry?
Dogs of all ages cry or whine for different reasons. When puppies are in distress, they cry or whine. Their mother will then be able to find them. Adult dogs’ vocalizations can convey many things. They may be a way to greet, show defense, invite play, or even a sign that they are submissive.
You should determine the reason why your dog is whining or crying so you can soothe them and meet their needs.
The Puppy’s Developmental Stages & Learning to Communicate
The first two-week period of a pup’s life is called the newborn period. The eyes and ears of puppies are closed at birth. They spend most of their time sleeping or nursing. The puppies cry and whine in order to get the attention of their mothers. They are completely dependent on their mothers for all of the things they need, from food to grooming and a safe place to sleep.
During the transition phase, which is the following stage of development for the pup, its eyes and ears will open and it will progress from crawling to walking. As the pups mature, the frequency of their cries will decrease over the coming weeks.
Next comes the socialization phase for a puppy. The brain matures rapidly during this period, and the pup becomes more exploratory and coordinated. This is the period of development where the pups learn how to get along with each other.
At this stage of life, it is important to expose puppies to dogs and people in a consistent manner to develop attachment, confidence, and familiarity. Puppies should also be exposed to the different sounds, objects, and sights that will confront them as adults. Positive reinforcement is a great way to get your dog to behave the way you desire without having to scare them.
Positive reinforcement can help establish a communication channel between pet parents and their new puppy. This training also reduces fear, anxiety and boosts confidence in dogs.
If your puppy is at least eight weeks old and has received its first vaccination, as well as being dewormed with the proper medication, you can enroll them in a puppy socialization class. These classes will introduce them to people, other puppies, the environment, things, and even cars.
What is causing my puppy to cry?
It’s vital that pet owners determine what is causing their pups to cry or whine so they can comfort them.
Separation
When puppies are separated from their mothers and littermates, and in an unfamiliar environment (such as the first time the owner brings home the puppy), they will cry or whine.
When puppies form an attachment with their parents or other members of the family, they may also cry and whine if they are taken away from them. It could happen at night when a pet parent is asleep and the pups are placed into a crate or pen. They are used to cuddling with other warm bodies, such as their mother or littermates. It can be frightening and lonely to learn how to sleep by yourself.
Also, they may cry if family members leave the room for a short time or longer. For example, to go to work or the bathroom. The puppy will also cry when separated from the other dogs in the house with whom they’ve formed a bond. The puppy may cry if they are separated from their family and placed in a pen to housetrain.
You can also find out more about Pain
When puppies are in pain they cry, for example, when being stepped upon, receiving their first vaccination, or getting their nails cut too short.
Sickness
When puppies are sick, they will cry or whine. They may also show other symptoms of sickness, such as diarrhea, vomiting or discharge coming from the eyes and nose.
The items that are out of reach
The puppy will cry if he cannot reach his favorite toy. If the dog parent takes away an item that the pup is chewing, like an electrical cord, they may cry.
Crate Training
When puppies are crate-trained, they often cry and whine. You can distract your puppy by playing through the bars of the crate or pen. While you gradually increase your distance from the puppy, you can give him puzzles with food in them to solve. It helps your puppy to focus and become more independent.
Place the pen/crate in arm’s length so the pup can watch you as you sleep. It can help to stick your hands through the bars, so your puppy is comforted with the warmth and smell of your own hand. It is not a very comfortable position to sleep in, but it may be necessary for a few nights to help your pup adjust to the new surroundings. You can also place a toy in the crate that sounds like a heartbeat or provides warmth for the puppy while they sleep. It may be beneficial to use pheromones that make dogs feel comfortable in their new home, crate or pen.
Can I ignore my crying puppy?
It is okay to comfort your puppy when they are distressed. It is not necessary to pick up your pup immediately after it cries or whines. However, in some situations, such as after another dog has blinked at them, or after the veterinarian gave them their vaccination, you can comfort them by touching them.
Make a loud noise to interrupt your puppy’s whining or crying after they lose a toy, or when you take away an object from them (such as the remote or your expensive shoes). Then redirect your puppy to other toys, or return the item that was taken.
Puppies can cry or whine, depending on their situation. These are typically cries of needing comfort or help. Don’t ignore the whines and cries of your dog, but try to find out what is causing them distress.
You should provide your puppy with all the comfort he needs in the early days of his life, then train him to correct any behavior problems or improve communication.
Both positive and negative socialization experiences will affect your pup’s behavior in the future. Your puppy should not be afraid of new people or dogs, but rather open and eager to experience new things. As an adult, they’ll be more positive and confident if the puppy is comfortable.