Crate Training a Puppy

Crate training a puppy is one of the best ways to get your new furry bundle settled into their new home. But, let’s be honest – it's not always easy to get these wiggle-bums to settle in their crate. Here’s a guide on how to crate train a puppy to ensure it goes as smoothly as possible.

Key steps to crate training a puppy

Step 1: Ease them into the crate slowly
Step 2: Gradually increase crate time
Step 3: Get them used to having the door closed
Step 4: How to crate train a puppy at night

Should you crate train a puppy?

Puppies and crates can be a match made in heaven. A crate helps mimic a den-like space that’s your puppy’s personal retreat where they feel safe and secure. Plus, a crate can be a handy tool for you as a pet parent to help with training and structure.

The benefits of crate training

Still on the fence about crate training a new puppy? Here are a few more reasons why you may want to consider incorporating a crate training schedule:

Safe space for your puppy

A crate offers an environment where your puppy can relax without getting into mischief. It’s especially useful during unsupervised times or busy household moments when they might want a calm sanctuary to retreat to.

Toilet training a puppy using a crate

Puppies instinctively avoid doing their business in their sleeping area, making crates an effective tool for potty training.

Wondering, “how to crate train a puppy for potty training?” Make sure to stick to a clear routine so they know when and where to go potty. This will help them learn that the crate is for relaxing and the outdoors is the toilet.

Reduces separation anxiety

Gradual crate training can help puppies learn to enjoy their own company, reducing separation anxiety when left alone.

Eases travel stress

Crate-trained puppies are often more comfortable during car rides and vet visits as the crate becomes a familiar and calming space wherever they are.

Training early is easier

Puppies are naturally more adaptable when they’re young, making it the perfect time to introduce them to the crate.

Crate training older dogs is still very possible of course, but puppies are less likely to have established habits that might make the process trickier. Plus, early crate training lays a strong foundation for other essential skills, like potty training and alone time without stress.

Choosing the right crate for your puppy

So, you’re ready to dive into crate training with your puppy! First things first, it’s important to buy the right house-training puppy crate so your snuggle bug feels as comfortable as possible.

Types of crates

Wondering, are metal or plastic dog crates better? Let’s take a look at the different options for your new puppy:

Wire crates: These strong crates are well-ventilated and ideal for puppies who like to keep an eye on what’s happening around them (but they are on the more pricy side). You can also buy a blackout crate cover to make the crate more cozy for your pup when needed.
Plastic crates: These provide more privacy and can be a great dog travel crate for car journeys as they’re more lightweight. They’re also easy to clean.
Soft-sided crates: These are very lightweight and portable so they’re also a great option for travel. They’re best suited for smaller dogs and puppies and can be extra cozy as they have a den-like feel.
Wooden crates: These blend in better with home decor, however, you might find your pup will tend to chew on it.

Crate size guide

A puppy crate will tend to be smaller than an adult-size crate. Choose a crate that’s large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably but not so roomy that they can use one end as a bathroom.

Your crate may come with the ability to adjust the size as your puppy grows. We especially recommend this if you have a fast-growing dog – take a look at our guide on choosing a dog crate for large breeds for more guidance on this.

The best way to crate train a puppy: step-by-step

So how do you crate train a puppy? Let’s get stuck in with these effective, simple steps:

Step 1: Ease them into the crate slowly

Once you’ve set up the crate with all the cozy loveliness your puppy can imagine, firstly encourage your puppy to explore their new crate with the door open (make sure to fix the door open so they don’t accidentally get locked in). If your dog has a play-pen then set the crate up in the pen so it’s an addition to their already familiar space.

Let them have a sniff about for a short time and use positive reinforcement. No rush, remember this is just the first step.

Step 2: Gradually increase crate time

Small steps! Once your dog seems to be comfortable with the crate, start gradually increasing crate time whilst keeping sessions short and enjoyable. Let them settle into the crate and give them a long-lasting chew toy to encourage them to stay in the crate for longer.

Step 3: Get them used to having the door closed

Once your puppy’s feeling comfy in their crate, it’s time to get them used to the door being closed. Start by making sure they have a bowl of water and a long-lasting chew toy to keep them occupied.

Gently close the door for a few seconds (not locking it) and stick close by for reassurance. If your pup starts to seem anxious, no worries – just take a step back to the last stage where they were comfortable and try again.

Gradually build up the time they’re enclosed in the crate. You can even try stepping out of the room for very short periods of time and see how they react. When doing this we recommend giving them their meal or another positive distraction.

Once you’re sure your puppy is comfortable in their crate you can leave them for a longer period of time, but not locked in for more than a couple of hours at a time. When you’re not training, leave the crate in the same space with the door open so your puppy can get used to going in and out when they feel like it.

Step 4: How to crate train a puppy at night

The final step to having a fully crate-trained pup is crate-training a puppy at night. So, how do you crate-train a puppy at night?

We recommend to first put the crate in your room for nighttime crate training so your puppy feels more secure with you nearby. Once they’re more comfortable and a bit older, you can move the crate to a more permanent spot away from your bedroom

Create a relaxing nighttime routine where you take your puppy for one last toilet trip and create a calm, winding-down atmosphere. Make sure your dog has a bowl of water and cozy bedding in the crate and don’t close the door.

Extra tips for crate training a puppy

Now we’ve had a look at how to crate train a puppy step-by-step, let’s look at a few extra top tips to set you up for success:

Set up the crate in a suitable location

Put the crate in a quiet area of your home, away from drafts and direct sunlight, but close enough for your puppy to feel included.

Create a positive association with the crate

Introduce the crate gradually. Let your puppy explore it freely without forcing them inside.

Use treats and toys

Place treats and toys inside the crate to encourage your puppy and build a positive connection with their new cozy space.

Encourage exploration

Praise your puppy whenever they go near or inside the crate to boost their confidence.

Establish a cozy environment

Add blankets and a soft bed for comfort and ensure a water bowl is accessible if the puppy will spend extended time inside.

Take a look at our article on how to make a dog crate more comfortable for some more tips!

Manage lighting and noise

Create a calming atmosphere by reducing loud noises and providing dim lighting during rest time.

Practice patience and consistency

Remember, puppies learn at their own pace. Stay calm and consistent with your training and adjust your approach as needed to suit your puppy’s lovely, unique personality.

How long does it take to crate-train a puppy?

How long to crate train a puppy depends on their age, personality, and past experiences. With some consistency and patience, most puppies may take about 1–2 weeks to adjust to their crate, though some may need a little longer to settle in.

Avoid these common crate training mistakes

Now we’ve covered how to crate train a puppy, here are some things you should avoid to make the experience happier for both you and your new four-legged friend:

Using the crate as punishment

Never use the crate as a form of discipline. Doing so can create fear and make your puppy associate their crate with something negative. The crate should be their cozy, safe space, not a time-out zone.

Leaving the puppy in the crate too long

Avoid leaving them in the crate for too many hours at once – especially when they’re young. Puppies have small bladders and can’t hold them for long periods. Keep enclosed crate time to just a few hours, and always make sure to take them outside for frequent potty breaks.

Ignoring signs of discomfort or distress

Pay attention to whining or barking that may indicate your puppy needs something or is feeling anxious. Crate training a puppy who is crying or showing other forms of distress isn’t the way forward - be sure to respond gently, assess what your puppy might need, and even pause training until they feel less anxious.

Troubleshooting crate training challenges

We’ve all been there – puppy training can definitely have its challenging moments! Here are a few possible solutions to the problems you might be facing:

How to handle whining or barking

First, figure out what's causing the whining or barking – are they hungry, uncomfortable, or needing a bathroom break? Address the issue, calmly soothe your puppy, and offer reassurance. You may need to pause puppy training and go back a few steps to where they feel comfortable in the training schedule if they’re feeling distressed.

Managing crate avoidance

If your puppy is avoiding the crate, try reintroducing it in a positive way with treats, toys, and lots of praise. Start by letting your puppy explore the crate at their own pace, and gradually build up to longer stays to help your puppy feel safe.

Crate training a rescue puppy

Crate training a rescue puppy can take a little extra patience as they may have sadly had negative experiences with crates or feel uncertain about their den.

It's important to go at your puppy's pace and keep training sessions short and calm. Be sure to offer plenty of praise and reassurance as they build trust with their crate.

By following this crate training a puppy schedule, you’ll help your puppy view their crate as a sanctuary and set them up for further puppy training success!

Top tip: if you’re planning on welcoming a pet sitter, make sure to let them know about your puppy’s crate training schedule.

Browse through our trusted in-house pet sitters today, so your puppy’s training routine can stay on track if you are planning a trip away.

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