How to Stop a Bernese Mountain Dog Puppy From Crying at Night
Bernese Mountain Dog puppies are naturally calm and affectionate, but they're also sensitive and prone to separation anxiety when adjusting to a new home. Nighttime crying is a common challenge during their early weeks, as these gentle giants struggle to settle without their littermates and the comfort of their mother. Unlike high-energy breeds that may cry from excess energy, Bernese pups cry from emotional distress and the need for security. The good news: their excellent trainability and good-natured temperament make them responsive to consistent, patient guidance. With a structured bedtime routine, gradual desensitization to alone-time, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Bernese puppy develop confident, restful sleep habits and create peaceful nights for your entire household.
Step-by-step
- 1
Establish a consistent bedtime routine
Create a calming pre-sleep ritual 30 minutes before bed, including a gentle walk, bathroom break, and quiet playtime. Bernese puppies thrive on predictability and structure; a consistent routine signals to their sensitive, intelligent minds that sleep is coming, reducing anxiety and crying.
- 2
Set up a secure sleeping space
Use a crate or enclosed puppy pen in your bedroom near your bed so your puppy can see you and smell your presence. This breeds' affectionate, gentle nature means they feel safest close to their family; being able to see you reduces fear-based crying.
- 3
Tire out your puppy appropriately during the day
Ensure your Bernese gets around 60 minutes of daily exercise split into shorter sessions (pups can't handle long walks yet). A moderately exercised puppy—not overstimulated—will sleep more deeply; however, avoid rough play right before bed, as sensitive Bernese pups can become anxious.
- 4
Use positive reinforcement for settling behavior
Reward quiet moments with gentle praise, treats, or a soothing voice when your puppy settles without crying. Never punish crying; Bernese puppies are sensitive and respond better to encouragement of the calm behavior you want to see.
- 5
Gradually extend time away from your presence
Start by stepping away for just 30 seconds while your puppy rests, then return before crying begins and reward them. Slowly extend these intervals over weeks; this trains your Bernese that you always return, building confidence and reducing separation-triggered crying.
- 6
Stay calm and consistent through setbacks
Bernese Mountain Dogs are highly attuned to your emotions; if you react with frustration to crying, they sense it and become more anxious. Remain patient and matter-of-fact; your calm demeanor teaches them that nighttime is safe and manageable.
Pro tips
- Bernese Mountain Dogs are highly responsive to their owner's emotional energy—your calm, patient presence teaches them that nighttime is safe; avoid reacting with frustration when they cry, even at 2 a.m.
- These sensitive giants bond deeply with routine; feed, exercise, and sleep at the same times each day so your puppy's sensitive nervous system knows what to expect and feels secure.
- Bernese puppies mature slowly and have moderate energy, so overexercise before bed can overstimulate them; aim for a calm, short walk 1–2 hours before sleep rather than vigorous play.
Frequently asked questions
Should I pick up my puppy when they cry at night?+
Avoid picking them up immediately, as this can reward the crying behavior. Instead, wait for a brief pause in crying, then calmly reassure them with your voice or a gentle hand. This teaches your Bernese that silence—not noise—gets your attention.
How long does it usually take a Bernese puppy to stop crying at night?+
Most Bernese puppies show significant improvement within 2–4 weeks of consistent training. Given their good trainability and calm temperament, they often progress faster than high-strung breeds, though some may need 6–8 weeks to fully adjust.
Is it okay to co-sleep with my Bernese puppy to stop the crying?+
While co-sleeping may reduce crying short-term, it can create dependency and make later training harder. Instead, keep the crate beside your bed so your puppy feels your presence without forming an unhealthy sleeping habit.
What if my Bernese puppy cries because they need a bathroom break?+
Very young puppies (under 12 weeks) may genuinely need nighttime potty breaks. Respond quickly and calmly without play or excessive interaction; go straight to the designated potty spot and return. Once around 16 weeks, most Bernese pups can hold it through the night.