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Writer's pictureRachael Claire

The Ultimate Guide to Crate Training Your Puppy: A Positive Approach

Updated: Dec 4

A brown cockapoo puppy lying down outside of their crate

Training your puppy to love their crate is so important to give them a secure, cosy area while encouraging good habits from the start. Proper crate training not only helps manage unwanted behaviours but also lays the groundwork for developing trust, security, and independence. Whether you're new to dog ownership or seeking to improve your techniques from past pups, this guide will assist you in crate training your puppy positively and effectively.


The Importance of Crate Training


  1. Creates a Safe Space: A crate should be a snug, enclosed area they instinctively seek out for rest, security and relaxation


  2. Aids in House Training: Puppies tend to avoid toileting in their sleeping area, making the crate an effective tool for teaching bladder and bowel control


  3. Controls Destructive Behaviour: A crate ensures your puppy's safety when unsupervised, protecting your belongings from chewing


  4. Alleviates Anxiety: When introduced correctly, a crate becomes a comforting retreat during stressful times like vet visits, travel, or loud noises.


Ensure you have the right crate before beginning:

  • Size: Pick a crate large enough for your puppy to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, but not too spacious, to prevent accidents


  • Type: Wire crates are airy and allow your puppy to see out more easily, and soft-sided crates are great for car travel


  • Accessories: Pad out the crate to ensure that it does not feel hard or uncomfortable to lie down in. Also consider covering the top and sides to create a cosy den that dampens out noises and reduces morning light from getting in


Steps to Crate Train Your Puppy


Step 1: Introduce the Crate

  1. Position the crate in a familiar area where the puppy feels at ease, such as the living room, but keep it tucked away in a corner


  2. Keep the door open


  3. Place your pup's toys and a worn item of your clothing inside the crate then allow them to explore at their own will. Let them to enter and exit freely without pressure.


Tip: Feeding meals in the crate can create positive associations from the beginning.

Step 2: Build Positive Associations

  1. Throw a few treats inside the crate and let your puppy retrieve them


  2. Keep scattering treats through the roof of the crate to encourage them staying inside


  3. Once your puppy is comfortable, very briefly close the door while they’re occupied with a chew toy or treat-filled Kong (just a second or two at first!)


Tip: If your puppy wants to leave allow them to leave. Don't force them to stay in against their will

Step 3: Increase Duration

  1. Begin by closing the door for a minute or two while staying in the room


  2. Gradually extend the time your puppy remains in the crate with the door closed. Stay calm and reward them when they’re quiet and relaxed


  3. Start leaving the room for short periods to help your puppy learn to be alone


  4. If they cry or start pawing at the bars let them out and reduce the duration next time


Pro Tip: Use a consistent cue like “in your crate” to signal it’s time to enter.

Step 4: Establish a Routine

Puppies thrive on routine. Use the crate during:

  • Nap Times: Puppies sleep 18-20 hours daily. Encourage crate naps to make it their preferred rest spot


  • Bedtime: Keep the crate near your bed for comfort at night. As they grow, move it to a designated area. Or sleep downstairs next to your puppy


  • When You’re Away: Limit crate time to less than 2 hours during the day for young puppies.


Important: Always let your puppy out for toilet breaks after eating, playing, or waking up.




Troubleshooting

  1. Whining, barking or pawing at the bars: If your puppy shows signs of not wanting to be in the crate, you should immediately let them out, then determine why they’re upset. Puppies vocalise to express needs, such as needing a toilet break, feeling scared, or being uncomfortable.


    Never ignore a puppy who wants out of their crate. They aren't being naughty! They are expressing that they're unhappy, and listening to this and letting them out is not a bad thing. In fact, ignoring them can create separation anxiety issues. Stay next to your puppy when they are back in their crate and creep away once they're asleep. If they wake up and want out you should let them out again, and rinse and repeat!


  2. Waking up in the night: Sleeping next to your puppy for the first 2 weeks reduces the chances of them getting upset in the night. Usually after this period you can then start to creep back to bed. However, if they do cry you should take them out to the toilet in the first instance and wait with them until they fall back asleep. Resettle them ASAP every time - DO NOT LEAVE THEM TO CRY IT OUT! This method can cause psychological damage and separation problems as adults


Note: Vocalising isn’t misbehaving — it’s communicating. Puppies are just babies who act on emotions - they are not smart enough to be manipulating you! Listening to your puppy’s needs builds trust and ensures a positive crate-training experience. NEVER ignore a puppy who wants out of their crate. Let them out straight away.

When to Phase Out the Crate

As your puppy matures into a well-behaved adult, the crate may become less necessary. Start by leaving the crate door open and gradually allow supervised freedom in the house. Some dogs continue using their crate voluntarily, while others transition to a dog bed.


Key Points

  • Patience and consistency are crucial for successful crate training.

  • Make the crate a positive, inviting space with rewards and comfort.

  • Gradually extend crate time to help your puppy adjust without stress.

  • Use the crate responsibly and never as punishment.

  • If your puppy cries in their crate never ignore them. Let them out and reduce the duration they are in there next time


With effective crate training, your puppy will develop excellent habits and learn to see their crate as a safe haven.


Happy training! 🐾

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