Welcoming a new family member can be fun and rewarding, but raising a puppy is not without its challenges. Many pup parents face worries around their new furry friend whining; it could happen while the pet is in their crate, at nighttime, or even completely out of the blue.

Whatever the case, wondering why your puppy is whining suddenly can be frustrating, especially if you don’t understand what they need. Here, we look at common reasons for dog panting and whining, how to tackle each one, and when you need to seek medical help.

Why is My Puppy Whining?

It’s normal – and even expected – for puppies to whine when they’re learning to communicate what they need, how they feel, or any potential discomfort. That said, if the whining has come seemingly out of nowhere, or seems excessive, there might be an underlying problem. Here are some causes to consider:

Attention Seeking

The reason your puppy is whining might simply be a need for attention. After all, dogs – especially young ones – love nothing more than companionship. So, if your puppy is whining even though they’re well-fed and comfortable, they might be feeling ignored or lonely.

As for how to stop a dog from whining in this situation, you might be tempted to immediately shower them with attention, but that might build bad habits. Instead, make sure they’re getting enough playtime and exercise during your walks, or when you have some downtime. You can also invest in things like puzzle feeders with puppy treats and toys to keep them busy when you’re otherwise occupied.

Enthusiasm/excitement

Your furry friend’s whining might also be a sign of excitement, brought on by seeing other dogs, the anticipation of food, or you coming home from work. As well as being the reason why your dog is whining and pacing, enthusiasm will often be seen with other behaviours, such as jumping or tail wagging.

To avoid encouraging excited whining, greet them in a relaxed manner, and promote calm interactions by teaching them commands like ‘stay’ and ‘sit’. Rewarding this behaviour with treats would also help here.

Woman holding a brown dog

Anxious Feelings

Your pooch might feel stressed and anxious in a new environment, or with strangers. This, as well as scary situations like thunderstorms or firework displays, might be the reason why your puppy is whining. Separation anxiety is also common, especially among pups who haven’t had proper separation training, and are left alone for a longer period.

How to stop a dog whining when they’re anxious is a more involved process. The most important step is to create a safe space for them (such as a quiet area, or a comfortable crate), where they can relax when they’re stressed.

Patience and positive reinforcement are key when introducing canine companions to new settings and people. Pair these with pheromone diffusers, puppy treats, and soothing dog-friendly music for optimal effect.

In more severe cases, you can try anxiety wraps too, or even consult a dog behaviourist for support with separation anxiety.

Physical Nuisances

Thirst, hunger, or needing the toilet can also cause whining. Of course, these things might be a source of bother for adult dogs too, but puppies have faster metabolisms and smaller bladders, so they need both food and toilet outings more often.

Stopping your dog from whining in these instances is quite basic: ensure they always have fresh water, feed them consistently, and take them out to the toilet regularly. It’s a good rule of thumb to schedule potty trips for puppies after they wake up, finish a meal, or wrap up playtime. 

Besides these scheduled loo breaks, if your dog is whining, pacing and sniffing around, they might need to go outside and relieve themselves.

A small dog and a large dog staring at each other

Sign of Submission

If it’s paired with no eye contact, tail tucking, and lowered posture, the reason why your puppy is whining might be appeasement behaviour. Pooches do this with other dogs or humans to show harmlessness.

The key to stop your dog from whining if you notice such signs of submission is positive reinforcement, paired with gradually meeting other humans and dogs. This will help build happy associations and boost their confidence.

Why is My Puppy Whining at Night?

A puppy whining at night in their crate can be stressful, but it’s also very common. For a social animal, being separated from the rest of the family – especially at nighttime – can be a big source of distress.

Brown and white dog with blue eyes leaning out of a cage

How to Stop Puppies from Whining At Night

You can try several things to help your pooch settle at bedtime. Start by setting up a comfortable sleeping spot for them, complete with soft, warm bedding. If they’re not allowed in your bedroom, have them nearby, so they don’t feel isolated.

If your puppy is whining at night in their crate, making crate training a positive experience by rewarding them when they enter on their own, and placing toys or puppy treats inside. Build up the duration over time, starting with short stints while you remain close, and gradually going longer.

An established, calming bedtime routine can also stop your dog from whining at night. A short walk or some gentle play, rounded off with a loo trip, is a great way to prepare for the night without overexciting them.

While it might be hard initially, making you question ‘Why does my dog keep whining at night?’, be patient but firm. Fight the urge to rush and comfort them, or let them out of the crate; instead, if you’re sure they have all they need, give them time to settle on their own.

When to Speak to a Vet if Your Puppy is Whining

As we’ve covered above, the reason why your puppy is whining can be quite varied, and sometimes addressed at home. However, in some instances – especially if your puppy is suddenly whining without an apparent cause – medical attention might be required.

Keep an eye out for other worrying symptoms, from your pet acting different or lethargic, to loss of appetite, diarrhoea and vomiting, or signs of pain, including limited mobility, limping, or too much licking in a particular spot.

If you notice any of these, or the whining persists despite all your dog’s needs being met, reach out to a vet for advice.

Trusted Dog Development Advice

Hopefully, our breakdown of reasons why your puppy is whining has armed you with some helpful ways to address the needs of your pooch (including plenty of positive reinforcement with tasty puppy treats).

Remember, consistency and patience can not only be effective in how to stop a dog from whining, but also enhance your bond with your canine companion.

For more support with your dog’s healthy development, check out our blog.