I had a hard time crate training Bauer at first. He would cry and bark at night too. I agree that the best thing to do is tire him out before bed. Eventually, he'll get used to the crate. It's also good to start teaching him the word "quiet". Bauer is almost a year old now, he loves his crate and sleeps through the night. Sometimes when I put him to bed he barks. I simply say "Bauer Quiet!" and he listens. Now he sleeps until he hears my alarm clock go off in the morning, then he barks to let me know he's awake too.
Just be patient it gets easier. The very best thing you can do for your puppy is have a routine. The dog will rest well and wait patiently if he knows what to expect. If he knows that you'll take him for a walk as soon as you wake up he won't cry if he has to pee, if he knows that you'll feed him right after his walk in the morning he won't cry for food, etc.
I hope this helps! |