My Puppy Is Crying When Im Sleeping

Question
My 1 month old chihuahua cries when I go to bed. I leave food, water, a nice cozy bed, newspaper on the floor and some fun chew toys for him but he ignores them and cries. I don't know how to teach him to be more independent so can you please show me how? I hate seeing him upset. I haven't been sleeping for 2 days now because of all the noise he's making and I force myself to wake up and keep him company. I just got him 2 days ago and he's such a sweet heart but when it's bed time, he frustrates me. Please help me!

Answer
Hi Jenny:

As dogs are social animals and as puppies have never been alone before (mother/Litter mates), at night time I always recommend placing the crate in your bedroom.

If puppy cries in crate in your room, ensure that he/she is not cold or needs a potty brake, otherwise ignore crying, puppy will eventually stop, as he/she learns bedtime is quiet time.

To build confidence, training builds trust and rules and respect.  Dogs are natural followers, so are most content when they know someone (their owner) takes on the role of leadership, by setting rules and being consistent using them.

Use the crate during the day as a means for the puppy to gain confidence with being alone.  Short 30 minute session, whilst you do something else in another room.

Never leave Puppy in a crate longer than he/she can be expected to hold their toilet.
If you have to work all day, then ensure Puppy is in a room, that has been puppy proofed (for safety) and provide Puppy Pads for bathroom needs as far from the crate as possible.  If you are away at work all day, then their is no need to separate yourself from you puppy whilst you are home.  They have had a long time alone already.

Making use of a Puppy/Dog Walking service is a great and/or a doggie daycare, for those dogs that are home alone a lot.

Hope that helps, if not please feel free to ask more questions.