Ack - suddenly kicking up a fuss in crate!!

MicroMuttMom

Hi all,

Our little Stella is almost 41/2 months old now (we got her at 71/2 weeks) and she's mostly a dream puppy -- very affectionate & outgoing, litter training coming along (occasional "whoops" notwithstanding), and quiet.

Well, two nights ago, out of the blue she starts kicking up a fuss in her crate at bedtime, whereas she's always gone into it and settled down right away before. Last night we took her for a walk later in the evening to tire her out more, but same thing - once she's in the crate (a pretty cushy affair, btw - comfy bed, toys, etc) she starts jumping around, whining, growling, and yes - even barking. She keeps this up off and on all night. Finally, about 5 a.m. today, I waited until she wasn't vocalizing any more (still tearing around though) and let her out. Desperate for sleep, I went back to bed not much caring what she chewed and where she pottied. Turns out she settled on the rug by my side of the bed and crashed out too - no misbehavior.

Should I consider leaving the crate door open during the night and just take my chances? How old were your puppies when you stopped confining them for the night?

Any advice is much appreciated -- I'm ugly when it comes to sleep deprivation! Mad

nern · Moderator Joined: 14 Mar 2004 Posts: 5042 Location: NY

I did'nt use a crate but I confined Natalie to the kitchen until she was fully housetrained and had lost her baby teeth so that I could trust her not to chew everything in sight. She was about 6 months old when I stopped confining her.
I would'nt let her have too much freedom until she is at least fully potty trained. Maybe you can confine her to the room her crate is in and leave the crate door open?

MyBabyShihPoo · Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 2:26 am Post subject:

MicroMuttMom · Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 7:50 pm Post subject:

Finally, a good night's sleep for all concerned! Very Happy

Thanks for the advice. I agree about not giving too much freedom too soon, but unfortunately closing the bedroom door isn't an option because our two cats (who have seniority, after all) need access to both our bed and their litter box down the hall.

The good news is, we left the crate open and Stella slept in it all night - not a peep out of her. I think (knocking on wood) we're gonna be okay!

MyBabyShihPoo · Posted: Fri Jun 25, 2004 8:24 pm Post subject:

FANTASTIC!!! Surprised

Let's hope for continued success (and peaceful nights)!!! Very Happy