Crate training is one of the most effective ways to provide your puppy with a safe, comfortable space while supporting housetraining and reducing destructive behaviors. Whether you have a young puppy or an older dog, crate training—when done correctly—can be a positive experience that builds confidence and routine. How to crate train a puppy, a step by step guide will walk you through a simple, stress-free approach to crate training.
Why Crate Training is Important
A puppy crate provides a quiet sanctuary where your puppy can go and relax and feel secure in their environment. For us, pet owners, it is a fantastic aid when house training and can reduce accidents in the home. If your puppy or dog is destructive, place your dog in the crate for peace of mind, knowing your furniture is safe. The crate also protects your dog from eating unsafe household items when you are not home. Depending on how well your dog travels in the car, the crate helps your dog feel safe and secure during car journeys to the vet or favorite walks.
Step-by-Step Crate Training Guide
Step 1: Choose the Right Crate For Your Puppy
Select a crate appropriately sized for your puppy. It should be large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably but not so large that it has extra space to eliminate in one corner.
Pro tip: For puppies select an adjustable crate that grows with the puppy.
Step 2: Make The Puppy Crate Inviting
Make the crate a positive and inviting place for your puppy. Place treats, toys, and a soft blanket or bed inside to entice them to explore. Leave the crate door open so your puppy can come and go as they please. Use a fun tone of voice to encourage your puppy to explore the new crate.
Read more about why your puppy whines in the crate at night
Step 3: Feed Your Puppy in the Crate
During mealtime, place your dog’s food bowl near the crate entrance, gradually moving it deeper inside. This encourages your dog to associate the crate with something positive – mealtime!
Step 4: Close the Door Briefly
Once your puppy is comfortable entering the crate to eat, start closing the door for short periods while they eat. Open it as soon as they finish their meal. This helps them get used to the idea of being confined temporarily.
Step 5: Gradually Increase Crate Time
Encourage short crate sessions outside of mealtime. Start with a few minutes while you’re nearby, then slowly extend the duration as they adjust. Offer a chew toy or stuffed Kong to keep them entertained while relaxing in the crate.
Step 6: Use a Command For Crate Time
Encourage your puppy to use the crate for naps and quiet time. Use a command like “crate” or “bed” to indicate when it’s time to enter the crate. Make it cozy with their favorite blanket or toy.
Step 7: Crating When You Leave
Once your puppy is comfortable with the crate, start leaving them in it for short periods when you’re out. Ensure they have water and toys to keep them occupied. Gradually increase the time you’re away.
Step 8: Ignore Whining (Within reasonable time)
It’s normal for puppies to whine at first. Avoid letting them out immediately, as this reinforces the behavior. Instead, wait for a moment of calm before opening the door.
Step 9: Practice Crate Training at Night
For puppies, crating at night helps establish a sleep routine. Take them out for a bathroom break before bedtime, then settle them in their crate. If they wake up, calmly take them outside and return them to the crate without extra fuss.
Step 10: Make the Crate a Lifelong Comfort Zone
Crate training isn’t just for puppies! Even adult dogs benefit from having a designated space where they feel safe and secure. Continue to use the crate for quiet time, travel, and resting.
Common Crate Training Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the crate as punishment – It should always be a positive place.
- Leaving your dog crated too long – Avoid extended confinement without breaks.
- Skipping steps – Patience and consistency are key to success!
Crate training can be a game-changer for both you and your pup when done correctly. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your dog will come to love their crate as a cozy retreat. Stick with the process, and soon enough, your furry friend will happily settle into their crate without a fuss!
Check out my top crate selection here, this is the crate I used for my German Shepherd adjustable to grow with him.