How to Crate Train a Puppy

Crate training your puppy is one of the most rewarding things you can do.

It provides a safe, warm place for them to sleep, rest and relax, and it also teaches them to be independent and comfortable in a confined space. If you're about to bring a puppy into your family, then these steps are for you!

Before You Begin

A few points before you begin. Crate training is most successful when you use positive reinforcement and consistency!

Crate Selection

The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up and turn around comfortably, but not too large that your puppy can eliminate in one area and sleep in another area.

Location Of Crate

Place the crate in a quiet area of your house. The crate should not be in a high-traffic area, as this can make it difficult for your puppy to relax. The crate must also be elevated off of the cold ground.

What You Need

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

- Crate

- Puppy bed or soft towel

- Crate cover or blanket

- Treats

- Toys

- Patience!

Step-By-Step Guide

1. Introduce The Crate

Introduce your puppy to the crate by placing them inside for short periods of time, initially with the door open. You could put a few treats in the crate to entice your puppy to go inside. Make the crate a positive place by giving them treats and toys when they're in it.

2. Make It Comfy

Make sure the crate is comfortable by placing a soft bed or blanket inside.

3. Start To Close The Door

Once your puppy is comfortable with staying in the crate with the door open, start closing the door for a couple minutes at a time, gradually increasing the length of time you close the door.

4. Stay Calm

Whenever you put your puppy in their crate, make sure to stay calm and positive. Talk to your puppy in a soothing voice and always reward them with a treat when they go inside.

5. Don't Punish

Never use the crate as a punishment as it will only create negative associations. If your puppy starts whining, resist the temptation to let them out immediately as it can teach them that whining will get them out.

6. Be Consistent

Crate training takes patience, so be consistent even if this means being woken up during the middle of the night and resisting cute puppy eyes wanting out! Your puppy will learn eventually, they just need to be taught properly.

7. Use Positive Reinforcement

Always reward your puppy when they go in their crate and make a fuss of them when they're inside their crate. This will encourage them to do so.

Additional Tips

* Place the crate in a quiet, draft-free area.

* Make sure the crate is at a comfortable temperature.

* Provide plenty of toys and treats for the puppy to play with while in the crate.

* If your puppy is whining or barking, do not let them out of the crate until they are quiet. This will teach them that whining or barking will not get them out of the crate.

Summary

Crate training can be a challenging process, but it's worth it to have a well-behaved pup! By following our step-by-step guide and these additional tips, you can help your puppy become comfortable with crate training.