Why Do Puppies Cry?

Both puppies and adult dogs express themselves through crying and whining, yet the reasons behind these vocalizations often differ. Puppies tend to cry or whine when they feel distressed, such as when they are separated from their mother. These plaintive sounds are their way of calling out, hoping their mother will come to their aid. In contrast, adult dogs use crying and whining to communicate a range of messages—whether it’s a friendly greeting, a warning to stay away, an invitation to play, or a signal of submission.

Understanding the cause of your puppy’s cries is essential for providing the comfort and care they need during moments of distress.

Puppy Developmental Stages and Learning to Communicate

The earliest stage of a puppy’s life, known as the neonatal period, spans the first two weeks. During this time, puppies are born with their eyes and ear canals closed, spending most of their time asleep or nursing. Their cries act as vital calls for attention and care from their mother. Completely helpless at this stage, puppies depend entirely on their mother for nourishment, grooming, and a safe, warm place to rest.

The next phase, called the transition period, sees dramatic changes: puppies’ eyes and ears open, and they progress from crawling to tentative walking. As they grow more capable and independent, the frequency of their cries gradually diminishes over several weeks.

Following this is the socialization period, a critical stage marked by rapid brain development. Puppies become more coordinated and adventurous, and their social skills blossom as they learn to interact with their littermates.

During this pivotal time, consistent, positive exposure to people, other dogs, and different animals forms the foundation of healthy attachments and self-confidence. Introducing puppies to various types of flooring, sights, sounds, and everyday objects helps prepare them for adult life. Gentle, reward-based training ensures your puppy confidently learns what behaviors are expected without fear or stress.

Positive reinforcement creates a clear communication channel between pet parents and their puppies, reducing fear and anxiety while boosting confidence and enthusiasm.

If your puppy is at least 8 weeks old, has been dewormed, vaccinated, and is healthy, enrolling them in puppy socialization classes can be highly beneficial. These classes offer chances to meet other puppies, people, and explore new environments and experiences like car rides, expanding their comfort zones safely and happily.

Why Is My Puppy Crying?

Puppies cry and whine for many reasons, and it’s important for pet parents to discern the cause of their upset to respond appropriately.

Separation

Puppies often cry or whine when they feel frightened and alone after being parted from their mother, littermates, and a familiar environment—especially during their initial days in a new home.

Once strong attachments have formed, puppies might also vocalize when separated from their new family members. For example, they may whimper at night when placed alone in a crate or pen, having been accustomed to snuggling close to their mother and siblings. Learning to sleep independently can feel lonely and scary.

Even brief absences—like a family member stepping out of sight to the bathroom or work—can trigger crying. Puppies may also protest when separated from bonded canine companions or confined for housetraining purposes.

Pain

Puppies will cry or whine when experiencing pain, whether from being accidentally stepped on, receiving vaccinations, or having their nails clipped too short.

Illness

Illness can cause puppies to whimper continuously. Besides the vocal distress, they may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or discharge from their eyes or nose, signaling a need for veterinary attention.

Items Out of Reach

Your puppy might whine if a treasured toy rolls just beyond their reach or if you remove an inappropriate object they’ve found—like an electrical cord. These vocalizations often express frustration or a desire for attention.

Crate Training

It’s quite normal for puppies to whine and cry during crate training. Sitting beside the crate and playing with your puppy through the bars can help distract and comfort them. Offering treats hidden inside puzzle toys encourages mental engagement and helps your puppy learn to enjoy some independence.

At night, position the crate close enough that your puppy can see you in bed. Reaching a hand through the bars to offer warmth and reassurance can soothe them during those first unsettling nights. Though it may be uncomfortable for you, this gentle connection usually only needs to last a few nights as your puppy adjusts.

Additional comforts like stuffed toys that mimic a beating heart or provide gentle warmth can ease separation anxiety. Using dog-appeasing pheromone products may also help your puppy feel secure in their new home and crate.

Should I Ignore My Crying Puppy?

When your puppy is upset, offering comfort is perfectly appropriate. You don’t necessarily have to scoop them up the moment they cry, but gentle physical reassurance can be invaluable—especially if they’re scared by another dog or recovering from a vet visit.

If the whining results from frustration—such as losing a toy or having an off-limits item taken away—try distracting your puppy with a noise and then redirecting their attention to an approved toy or returning the toy that fell out of reach.

Puppy cries and whines often serve as calls for help or comfort, so don’t ignore them. Instead, tune in to what your puppy might need.

Providing comfort in those early days at home is crucial, followed by patient training to address behaviors and build your puppy’s communication skills.

Remember, the experiences your puppy has during this sensitive socialization period shape their future temperament. By fostering a safe, nurturing environment filled with positive encounters, you help your puppy grow into a confident, well-adjusted adult dog eager for new experiences and friendships.