How to Stop Your Border Collie Puppy from Howling at Bedtime

Hey there, fellow Border Collie enthusiasts! I’m thrilled to share my expertise on a common issue many of us face – our Border Collie puppies howling at bedtime. If you’ve been losing sleep and need a solution to keep those midnight serenades at bay, you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep for both you and your furry friend.

Understanding the Why

Before we tackle the “how,” it’s crucial to understand the “why” behind your Border Collie puppy’s howling at bedtime. Knowing the root cause will help you address the issue more effectively. Let’s delve deeper into these potential reasons:

1. Separation Anxiety

Border Collies are known for their strong attachment to their owners. When left alone at night, especially if they’ve been with you all day, they can experience separation anxiety. This anxiety can manifest as howling and whining.

Signs of Separation Anxiety:

• Excessive howling, whining, or barking when left alone.
• Destructive behaviour, such as chewing furniture or doors.
• Pacing and restlessness.
• Excessive drooling or panting.
• House soiling despite being house-trained.

Solution: Addressing separation anxiety requires patience and a gradual approach. Here are some additional tips to help your pup overcome this issue:

• Desensitisation: Gradually get your puppy used to being alone for short periods during the day. Start with just a few minutes and gradually extend the time. Reward calm behaviour.
• Use a Crate: A crate can provide a sense of security for your puppy. Start by having short crate sessions with you in the room. Then, gradually leave your puppy alone in the crate for short durations, increasing the time as they become more comfortable.
• Practice Leaving and Returning: To reduce anxiety when you leave, avoid making a big fuss about your departure. Simply leave and return without much fanfare. This helps your puppy understand that your departures are temporary.
• Calming Supplements: Some supplements and treats contain ingredients like chamomile or L-tryptophan, which can help promote relaxation. Consult your vet for recommendations.
• Professional Help: If separation anxiety is severe and persistent, consider consulting a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviourist. They can provide tailored guidance and may recommend techniques like desensitisation and counterconditioning.
• Interactive Toys: Provide your pup with interactive toys or puzzle feeders that can keep them mentally engaged in your absence.
• Scent Comfort: Leave an article of clothing with your scent on it in your puppy’s crate or sleeping area. Your scent can provide comfort when you’re not around.

Remember, it may take time for your Border Collie to overcome separation anxiety, so be patient and consistent with your efforts.

2. Attention-Seeking Behaviour

Puppies are naturally curious and love attention. Your Border Collie may resort to howling as a way to get your attention or as an attempt to be let out of their crate.

Solution: Ignore the howling when you are sure their needs are met. Reward quiet behaviour with attention and treats. Here are some additional tips to curb attention-seeking behaviour:

• Scheduled Attention: Establish a schedule for playtime, training, and attention. This helps your puppy know when to expect interaction.
• Interactive Toys: Provide your pup with toys that can keep them occupied, such as puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys. These toys can distract them and provide mental stimulation.
• Obedience Training: Teach your puppy basic commands like “sit” and “stay.” Use these commands to redirect their focus when they start howling for attention.
• Ignore the Behaviour: When your pup engages in attention-seeking howling, practice ignoring them until they calm down. Only provide attention and rewards when they are quiet.
• Reward Quietness: When your puppy is quiet, even for a few seconds, praise and reward them. Gradually increase the duration of quiet behaviour before rewarding.

By implementing these strategies, you can help your Border Collie understand that howling for attention is not an effective way to get what they want.

Preparing for a Restful Night

Now that we’ve explored the reasons behind your puppy’s bedtime howling and discussed additional tips for addressing separation anxiety and attention-seeking behaviour, let’s discuss how to set the stage for a peaceful night’s sleep:

Invest in Comfort

• Choose the Right Bed: Select a comfortable and appropriately sized bed for your puppy. Collies love to stretch out, so ensure there’s enough room.
• Create a Cozy Environment: Make sure the sleeping area is warm and cozy. You can use soft blankets and bedding to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Block Out Distractions

• Curtains and Lighting: Close curtains or blinds to minimise outside stimuli. Keep the room dimly lit to signal that it’s bedtime.
• Noise Reduction: Use white noise machines or calming music to drown out external noises that might trigger howling.

Exercise and Play

• Daytime Activities: Engage in play and exercise during the day to tire your puppy out. A tired puppy is less likely to howl out of boredom or excess energy.
• Mental Stimulation: Provide puzzle toys and games that challenge their mind and keep them occupied.

By incorporating these strategies and understanding the underlying causes of your Border Collie’s howling, you can work towards peaceful nights and a well-rested pup.

Crate Training: Your Secret Weapon

Crate training is an invaluable tool for teaching your Border Collie puppy to settle down at night. Here’s an in-depth look at crate training:

1. Introduction

• Positive Association: Make the crate a positive space by placing treats and toys inside. Allow your puppy to explore it freely without any pressure to enter.
• Mealtime in the Crate: Feed your puppy near the crate and eventually inside it, associating the crate with something enjoyable.

2. Gradual Enclosure

• Short Sessions: Start by closing the crate door for short periods while you’re present in the room. Gradually increase the time your puppy spends in the crate.
• Stay Nearby: Sit quietly near the crate to reassure your pup. Avoid making a fuss when opening the door.

3. Bedtime Routine

• Incorporate the Crate: Make the crate a part of your evening routine. Place your puppy in the crate with a treat or a special bedtime toy when it’s time to sleep.
• Comfort Items: Provide a comforting blanket or a soft toy that carries your scent to soothe your puppy.

4. Consistency

• Establish a Schedule: Be consistent with crate usage and bedtime routines. Dogs thrive on predictability.
• No Punishment: Never use the crate as a form of punishment. It should always be a safe and positive space.

By following these crate training steps, you can help your Border Collie feel secure and comfortable in their crate, reducing anxiety-related howling at bedtime.

Evening Routine: A Bedtime Ritual

Creating a soothing bedtime routine can signal to your Border Collie that it’s time to wind down for the night. Here’s an expanded routine to try:

1. Dinner and Water

• Timed Feeding: Feed your puppy dinner a couple of hours before bedtime to allow for digestion. Use high-quality puppy food to keep them satisfied.
• Hydration Management: Remove the water bowl a little while before bedtime to minimise nighttime bathroom breaks.

2. Calm Playtime

• Low-Energy Play: Engage in quiet, low-energy play before bed. Activities like gentle tug-of-war or fetch indoors can help them burn off any remaining energy.
• Training Time: Use this time to reinforce basic obedience commands like “sit” and “stay.”

3. Potty Break

• Final Bathroom Break: Take your puppy outside for a final bathroom break. Use a specific command like “Go potty” to reinforce the purpose of the outing.
• Quiet and Business-Like: Keep the environment calm during the potty break. Avoid play or stimulation.

4. Crate Time

• Comfort and Reassurance: Place your puppy in the crate with their favorite blanket or toy. Offer a gentle pat and soothing words before closing the crate door.
• Transition to Sleep: Avoid making any noise or engaging in play after your puppy is in the crate. This signals that it’s time for rest.

Problem Solving: Addressing Specific Issues

If your Border Collie puppy continues to howl at bedtime despite your efforts, here are some additional troubleshooting tips:

• Check for Health Issues: Ensure there are no underlying health problems causing discomfort. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect any health concerns.
• Gradual Adjustments: If your puppy is transitioning from a breeder or a different environment, allow time for adaptation. Provide familiar items from their previous home to ease the transition.
• Training and Obedience: Invest in basic obedience training to reinforce commands like “quiet” or “stay.” Professional trainers can provide guidance if needed.
• Consult a Professional: If the problem persists, it’s essential to seek advice from a professional dog trainer or behaviourist who specialises in Border Collies. They can provide personalised solutions and strategies.

Patience and Persistence: The Key to Success

In conclusion, bedtime howling is a common challenge for Border Collie owners, but with the right approach, understanding of your puppy’s needs, and additional tips to address separation anxiety and attention-seeking behaviour, it can be overcome. Teaching your pup to stop howling at bedtime takes time and patience. Stay consistent with your training and routines, and your pup will learn to settle down peacefully. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and many Border Collie owners have faced the same challenges.

If you found this guide helpful, please share it with other Border Collie enthusiasts. Together, we can help our beloved pups have a restful night’s sleep.