How to Stop a Great Dane Puppy From Crying at Night
Great Dane puppies are naturally gentle and patient, but their large frames need proper settling routines from day one—especially at night. Unlike more energetic breeds, Great Danes don't require constant stimulation, which works in your favor for nighttime training. However, a new puppy separated from littermates will cry from loneliness and unfamiliarity, not obstinacy. This guide uses positive reinforcement to help your Great Dane puppy learn that nighttime is safe, comfortable, and quiet. By addressing their need for security while managing their growing size and mild stubborn streak, you'll establish peaceful sleep patterns that benefit both puppy and owner. Consistency and patience are key—Great Danes respond beautifully to routine and your calm, dependable presence.
Step-by-step
- 1
Create a Secure, Comfortable Sleep Space
Set up a spacious crate or pen large enough for your Great Dane puppy to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably—they'll grow quickly, so plan ahead. Include soft bedding, a familiar scent (like a blanket from the breeder), and a safe chew toy to encourage settling. A secure space reduces anxiety and teaches your puppy that nighttime confinement is normal, not punitive.
- 2
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
Take your puppy outside for a toilet break 30 minutes before bedtime, then engage in calm, quiet interaction—a gentle pat or soft voice. Feed them 2–3 hours before sleep to reduce nighttime bathroom needs. Consistency signals to your Great Dane's patient, routine-loving temperament that sleep time is approaching, reducing anticipatory crying.
- 3
Exercise Adequately During the Day
Great Danes have moderate energy (3/5) and need around 60 minutes of daily exercise. A tired puppy settles faster at night; aim for a 20–30 minute walk or play session in the late afternoon. Avoid intense play 1–2 hours before bed, as it can overstimulate even a calm-natured Great Dane.
- 4
Use Positive Reinforcement, Not Punishment
Reward quiet behavior with soft praise or a treat when your puppy settles without crying. Ignore whining—never reward it by picking up or comforting, as this reinforces the behavior. Great Danes respond beautifully to patience and encouragement rather than correction, so celebrate every quiet moment.
- 5
Gradually Extend Alone-Time Tolerance
Start with short periods in the sleep space during the day, with you nearby but not interacting. Gradually increase duration and distance over 1–2 weeks before expecting full nights alone. Your Great Dane's dependable, patient nature means they'll accept this progression if you're consistent and calm.
- 6
Address Leaning and Physical Comfort Needs
Great Danes often lean on owners for comfort and security. Near bedtime, sit calmly beside the crate for 5–10 minutes so your puppy learns your presence is reassuring without requiring constant interaction. This satisfies their friendly, gentle nature while teaching independence at sleep time.
Pro tips
- Great Danes are lean-on-dogs: they crave physical closeness but shouldn't sleep in your bed. Place the crate in your bedroom initially so your presence is calming without encouraging dependency—this leverages their dependable, patient temperament.
- Avoid the jumping and counter-surfing trap: a tired, settled puppy at night means a calmer dog during the day. Consistent 60-minute daily exercise pays dividends in nighttime behavior, so don't skip walks even on busy days.
- Great Danes respond poorly to harsh corrections—use their natural friendliness and desire to please. Reward quiet nights with soft praise and treats, and they'll naturally gravitate toward good sleep habits faster than punishment ever could.
Frequently asked questions
How long will my Great Dane puppy cry at night?+
Most puppies cry less after 2–4 weeks of consistent routine, though individual timelines vary. Great Danes, being naturally patient and rule-following, often adapt faster than more stubborn breeds if you're consistent. Full, uninterrupted nights typically come by 12–16 weeks of age.
Should I let my Great Dane puppy sleep in my bed?+
No—this creates dependency and complicates training, plus a growing Great Dane will quickly take up your entire bed. Keep the crate nearby so your puppy feels secure without relying on physical contact. Once fully housetrained (4–6 months), you can gradually allow supervised sleeping arrangements if desired.
What if my puppy needs to toilet during the night?+
Puppies under 12 weeks may genuinely need 1–2 nighttime bathroom breaks. Respond calmly without praise or play—take them out, let them relieve themselves, and return directly to the crate. As bladder control develops (by 4–5 months), nighttime toilet breaks naturally decrease.
My Great Dane puppy cries when I leave the room—what should I do?+
This is separation anxiety, common in loyal, people-oriented breeds like Great Danes. Build tolerance by leaving the room for 30 seconds, returning calmly (before crying escalates), then gradually extending absence. Reward silence with quiet praise. Avoid making departures emotional; keep them low-key and routine.