June 01, 2025
I'm getting a new Siberian Husky puppy, do you have any thoughts on how to make the first couple of nights in my home the least traumatic?
Full Question:
So I have a new 8 week old Siberian on the way, it it’s been almost 30 years since I’ve had one this young - even though I’ve had four previous huskys. I’m looking for advice on the first few nights, and with all the videos and trainers I feel like everyone’s training advice is all different. I have a crate, but it’s not in my bedroom (although my house isn’t huge - about 1600 sqft). I think I have enough of the right gear, and am always up for other suggestions. But I will be driving about 5 hours to get him each way, so I’m not sure I’ll be home in time for a gradual introduction to the crate. Any thoughts on how to make the first couple nights the least traumatic?
Cindy's Answer:
I'd suggest our video Your Puppy 8 weeks to 12 months for how Ed and I raise puppies in our home. I raise a new puppy about every 2 years or so (many different breeds) and we've come up with a system that we find works best for us and helps create a nice dog to live with.
I would put the crate next to your bed at first, I find that if the puppy is upset often just sticking your fingers in the crate gives the pup some comfort that they're not 'alone'
You can also hear them start to move around and whimper so if they need to go outside you can take the pup out before they have an accident. Hopefully, the breeder introduced the crate to the litter of pups so it's not so stressful. Also, if the breeder can send a small towel or baby blanket that the puppies slept with I like to take that along for comfort as well.
I would put the crate next to your bed at first, I find that if the puppy is upset often just sticking your fingers in the crate gives the pup some comfort that they're not 'alone'
You can also hear them start to move around and whimper so if they need to go outside you can take the pup out before they have an accident. Hopefully, the breeder introduced the crate to the litter of pups so it's not so stressful. Also, if the breeder can send a small towel or baby blanket that the puppies slept with I like to take that along for comfort as well.
User Response:
Thank you. His crate I got is the full size one with dividers and would make things pretty tight next to my bed. And I typically sleep with the tv on. Should I invest in a smaller crate for the bedroom? Or should I just spend the first few nights just sleeping in the great room next to him in the main crate?
Cindy's Answer:
I think either option would work, just so he doesn't feel completely alone til he settles in and you have a routine for potty outings. Some pups need to go out in the night until they are a bit bigger and others sleep right through, it varies from pup to pup.
I like to use a smaller portable crate (usually purchased fairly inexpensively at a big box store) I use that in the vehicle too, while acclimating them to short car rides.
Congrats on the new pup, our neighbors have 3 Huskies and they are loving our current weather, we just got about 6 inches of snow yesterday. :)
I like to use a smaller portable crate (usually purchased fairly inexpensively at a big box store) I use that in the vehicle too, while acclimating them to short car rides.
Congrats on the new pup, our neighbors have 3 Huskies and they are loving our current weather, we just got about 6 inches of snow yesterday. :)
User Response:
Thank you so much! I’ve always loved husky…thus the four before this one :) I want to really focus on training this one and be a lot more active. So I’m gonna be looking for good games and exercises for him since I’m not naturally an active or athletic person lol. I have a small wire one that’s 18”x12”x14” for the ride home in the car but I’m concerned it’s too small? Or maybe it’s ok for the drive home but not big enough to sleep in? The big one I have has a divider so thought it would be ok for the long term.
Cindy's Answer:
If the smaller crate is large enough for him to lie down and sleep comfortably, that's what I would use. I let my pups sleep crated next to my bed until I know they consistently sleep through the night. That time frame can vary a lot based on the puppy
Cindy's Answer:
I'd recommend the puppy video I linked in an earlier message, we start from day one building a fun relationship based on management and engagement with us. I've trained a few huskies and since they tend to be a bit more independent it's helpful to start setting up a routine and training mindset early. I'll link some other resources below here as well.
User Response:
Awesome! Thank you much. I’ll check them out.
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