Sorry I won't be any help -- I have always given up and let each new puppy sleep on me, curled up at my neck. Annie still likes to sleep there but I try to push her down a litrle so I don't suffocate in my sleep.
I just have never been able to listen to them cry. All 3 of mine sleep with me. One on each side and Annie right on me. Sometimes I think they have a hard time sleeping if I am not here. I had some things to do in town today so they got no naps and they are tired now. Ben is trying to get me oiff the computer so he can go to bed.
Guess I'd better go.
I did want to give you some empathy though! I know how hard it is to hear those little whines and cries. Most say they will eventually give it up and sleep in their crates. I just never got that far. Good luck to you and Dash!