How to Stop a Bloodhound Puppy From Crying at Night
Bloodhound puppies are affectionate and gentle companions, but their stubborn, determined nature can make nighttime settling particularly challenging. Unlike more trainable breeds, Bloodhounds aren't motivated by obedience alone—they're driven by scent and their own independent will. Night crying in young Bloodhounds stems from separation anxiety, unfamiliar environments, and their need for reassurance rather than behavioral defiance. Because Bloodhounds have moderate energy levels (3/5) and require approximately 75 minutes of daily exercise, inadequate daytime stimulation often exacerbates nighttime distress. This guide uses positive-reinforcement methods tailored to the Bloodhound's affectionate temperament, helping you establish a calm bedtime routine and peaceful nights without relying on methods that clash with their sensitive, stubborn disposition.
Step-by-step
- 1
Exhaust Your Puppy's Energy Before Bedtime
Bloodhounds need consistent, structured exercise to settle at night—aim for at least 60-75 minutes of activity throughout the day, with a focused 20-30 minute play session 2-3 hours before bed. Use scent games and nose-work activities that align with their natural scent obsession (e.g., hiding treats in grass, trailing exercises), as mental stimulation tires them faster than generic play. A truly tired Bloodhound is far more likely to sleep through the night without crying for attention.
- 2
Create a Secure, Comfortable Sleeping Space
Set up a crate or enclosed sleeping area lined with soft, familiar-smelling bedding—consider including an item with your scent to comfort the puppy. Keep the space small enough to feel den-like but large enough for the puppy to stand and turn around; Bloodhounds are affectionate and may cry less if they feel enclosed and safe rather than isolated. Position the crate in your bedroom initially so the puppy knows you're nearby, reducing separation anxiety.
- 3
Establish a Consistent Pre-Bed Routine
Create a predictable wind-down ritual 30-60 minutes before sleep: gentle handling, calm voice interactions, and soothing activities that signal bedtime is approaching. Bloodhounds respond well to routine and affection; they're less likely to cry if they understand what comes next. Avoid stimulating play or training sessions close to bedtime, and take your puppy outside for a final bathroom break immediately before settling.
- 4
Use Positive Association With the Sleeping Space
Never force your Bloodhound puppy into the crate or use it as punishment—instead, reward calm behavior inside the space with treats, praise, and quiet affection. Bloodhounds are sensitive to harsh corrections and respond best to positive reinforcement; practice short stays during the day with the door open, gradually building their comfort. Reward silence and calm settling, not crying, to teach them that the space is desirable.
- 5
Respond Calmly and Consistently to Nighttime Crying
When your puppy cries, assess whether it's a genuine bathroom need (young puppies can't hold it long) versus attention-seeking or anxiety. If it's a legitimate need, carry the puppy outside matter-of-factly without play or excitement, then return them to the crate without fuss. For non-urgent crying, resist the urge to comfort vocally or pick them up immediately—instead, use a calm voice and brief, reassuring touch to acknowledge them without reinforcing the crying behavior.
- 6
Gradually Increase Crate Distance Over Weeks
Once your puppy sleeps through the night consistently from your bedroom, slowly move the crate further away over 1-2 weeks, allowing them to adjust gradually. Bloodhounds' stubborn independence actually works in your favor here—once they've accepted the routine, they'll maintain it. Rushing this transition often triggers regression; patience and consistency are essential with this breed's determined temperament.
Pro tips
- Leverage scent in your training: Place a worn piece of your clothing in the puppy's crate—Bloodhounds are scent-obsessed and find your familiar scent deeply reassuring at night.
- Expect stubbornness and plan accordingly: Don't react emotionally to crying. Bloodhounds have low trainability (2/5) and are determined; they'll test boundaries relentlessly, so unwavering consistency matters more than with other breeds.
- Exercise first, training second: A Bloodhound puppy with insufficient stimulation cannot settle, no matter your technique. Prioritize the full 75 minutes of daily activity—especially nose-work games—before expecting nighttime calm.
Frequently asked questions
My Bloodhound puppy cries constantly at night no matter what I do. Is this normal?+
Yes, it's normal for young Bloodhound puppies, especially in their first weeks. However, persistent crying often signals insufficient daytime exercise, inadequate scent stimulation, or separation anxiety. Ensure your puppy is getting 60-75 minutes of activity daily, including nose-work games that tap into their scent obsession. If crying persists after 4-6 weeks of consistent routine, consult your vet to rule out medical issues.
Should I sleep with the crate door open so my Bloodhound can cuddle with me at night?+
While Bloodhounds are affectionate and this might seem comforting, it undermines their learning to self-soothe and can extend crying behavior. Instead, keep the crate in your room with the door closed but you nearby for reassurance. Once your puppy sleeps through, you can gradually increase distance. This teaches them to trust their sleeping space while maintaining the security of your presence.
How long does it typically take a Bloodhound puppy to sleep through the night?+
Most Bloodhound puppies can sleep through the night (6-8 hours) by 4-5 months old with consistent training, though some stubborn individuals may take longer given the breed's lower trainability (2/5). Age also matters: very young puppies (8-12 weeks) have legitimate bathroom needs every 3-4 hours. Patience and consistency are key—forcing the timeline often backfires with this determined breed's stubborn nature.
My puppy stops crying when I let them sleep in my bed. Can I gradually transition them to the crate later?+
This approach typically creates bigger problems later. Bloodhounds' stubborn temperament means they'll resist the transition strongly once they've experienced bed sleeping. Co-sleeping also prevents them from learning independence and self-soothing. It's far easier to establish crate training correctly from the start using positive reinforcement than to re-train a determined adolescent Bloodhound who expects bed privileges.