How to crate train an older dog

Updated 15/11/2024

Got a senior dog who's set in their ways? Don’t worry — yes, you can teach an old(er) dog new tricks, including the all-important crate training! Let’s go into some paw-some tips on how to crate train an older dog.

How to crate train an older dog

Crate training an older dog is similar to crate training training puppies, but with some tweaks to cater to their specific needs. Here are five easy steps on how to crate train an older dog which we’ll go into more detail later:

1. Pick the perfect crate
2. Make it the ultimate cozy nook!
3. Let them explore on their own
4. Close the door for short periods
5. Gradually extend crate time

Why crate training is important for senior dogs

Crate training offers lots of benefits for older dogs, including offering a cozy spot and providing a sense of security. Here’s why your senior dog will love their new crate:

It provides a safe space

Your older dog might be sensitive to changes in their environment, such as fireworks, storms, or unfamiliar visitors. A crate can become their cozy retreat where they feel safe and secure in times of stress.

It helps with potty training

Wondering how to crate potty train an older dog? Well, a crate is a great tool to help your dog learn the difference between comfy zones like their crate and outside where the business happens. 

When you can't supervise your dog, placing them in a crate reduces the chances of any indoor accidents. It acts as a controlled environment as they’re less likely to do the toilet in a confined, cozy space. Just make sure that your dog is never left alone for extended periods and has regular opportunities to go out to the toilet.

It’s a way to train your dog to travel

Trips to the vet or family vacations become way less stressful when your dog’s already comfortable with a crate. It’s their little portable den; the familiar space keeps them calm during car rides or in new places.

Related article: Road trips with dogs: tips and essentials

Step-by-step guide to crate training an older dog

Now what you’ve been waiting for! Let’s take a look at how to introduce an older dog to a crate, step by step:

Step 1: Pick the perfect crate

Wondering how to choose the right dog crate for your older dog? Make sure to choose a crate that’s large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. 

For crate material, if your dog prefers quiet, enclosed places then a plastic crate will be best as it adds a sense of privacy. Wire crates are sturdy and they’re better for dogs who like to see their surroundings. They offer better visibility as well as ventilation. Don’t forget you can partially cover a wire crate with a blanket if they ever need more security.

Related article: How to make a dog crate comfy: Creating the paw-fect comfy dog bed

Step 2: Make it the ultimate cozy nook!

To start crate dog training, set up the crate while your pooch is out of the room. Place the crate in a familiar, quiet, and draft-free area, and load up the crate with blankets, toys, and maybe even some orthopedic bedding to support your older dog’s joints. 

Step 3: Let them explore on their own

Let your dog explore the crate freely with the door to the crate open. Then, use positive reinforcement to encourage your dog to go into the crate more often. Treats, dog food, toys, and praise will help create positive associations with the crate. Remember, no rushing — go at their pace! 

Try placing treats in the crate when they aren’t looking (sneaky) so they associate the crate with positive things when you aren’t there too.

Step 4: Close the door for short periods

Once your dog’s comfy hanging out in the crate, it’s time for the next step: closing the crate door. Start small and don’t lock it — just a few seconds with a tasty chew toy to keep them happy and a bowl of water. Gradually extend the time and stick close by so they stay relaxed.

If your dog reacts negatively to the door being closed, such as whining, barking, or panting, open it immediately. Take a step back and practice with the door open for a little bit longer.

Step 5: Gradually extend crate time

By now your dog should be pretty comfortable with the crate. Extend crate time gradually with the door locked, starting with a few minutes and slowly increasing the duration. Practice leaving the room while your dog is in their crate to help them adjust to being alone. Again, take a step back if they seem distressed.

Even once they’re very comfortable with the crate, avoid leaving them in there for more than three hours at a time. Oh, and always leave the crate door open when you’re not training so they can pop in and out as they please! Keep the crate experience positive and never use it for punishment.

How to crate train an older dog at night

Wondering, “how to crate train an older dog overnight?” Once they’re comfy in the crate during the day, you can start working on overnight crate training.

Make sure they’ve had one last potty break before bedtime and avoid late-night play sessions to keep them calm. Your dog will soon associate a final bathroom trip and a calm atmosphere with sleep time in the crate. Don’t lock them in — just make sure they’ll have everything they need overnight like a water bowl and warm bedding.

If you’re welcoming a pet sitter soon, don’t forget to fill them in on your pup’s training routine.

Related article: Crate training a puppy: A step-by-step guide to success

How to crate train an older dog with separation anxiety

Got a pooch who can’t bear to be alone? If your dog experiences separation anxiety, the crate can still be helpful. Here are some tips on how to crate train an older dog with anxiety:

• Add a personal touch: Place a blanket or shirt with your scent into their crate to give them that "you're still here" feeling.
• Calming vibes: Use anxiety toys, calming pheromone sprays, or even some relaxing background music to help keep them at ease.
• Take it sloooow: Go at an extra gentle pace with crate training, making sure every crate experience is positive. Lots of praise, treats, and patience will make all the difference and will build positive associations with alone time.
• Listen to your dog: If your dog starts barking or whining in the crate, it’s important to respond to your pooch - otherwise, you may cause more issues in the long run. Slow down the training process, and do what you can to create a calm environment.
• Don’t make it a big deal: Certified master dog trainer, Rob Kuty explains how to act when approaching your dog after their alone time:

“When a person has been away from their dog, especially if it’s been for hours, the human tends to feel bad and wants to make up the lost time. 

They immediately shower their dog with an excited voice, touch and treats as they enter back into their dog’s life. This communicates a drastic difference between being with you and being without you. 

It gives your dog the ability to realize being with you is so intense and exciting and being without you is the total opposite: boring, quiet and lonely.”

Make sure to seek help from a qualified behaviorist if you’re struggling to cope with your dog’s anxiety issues alone.

Special considerations for crate training older dogs

When it comes to crate training, it’s definitely not a one-size-fits-all situation! Here are a few things you might want to keep in mind for your senior pup:

Health issues

Older dogs may suffer from arthritis or other mobility issues, so make sure their crate is super comfy, easy to get in and out of, and is in an accessible place.

Crate training a shelter dog

Need advice on how to crate train an older rescue dog? If your dog has had negative experiences with crates in the past, patience and positivity are key. Introduce the crate slowly, and if you need a little extra help making your dog feel comfortable about their crate, reach out to a vet or certified dog behaviorist.

Related article: How much does dog training cost?

How long should an older dog stay in the crate?

The recommended crate time for senior dogs varies depending on their needs. In general, dogs shouldn’t spend more than three hours at a time in the crate during the day, and they should always have regular opportunities for bathroom breaks, exercise, and social interaction.

Related article: 5 things to avoid when leaving your dog alone

Crate training for travel and emergencies

Crate training isn’t just for the home. Practice crate training in the car by starting with short trips and gradually increasing the time spent in the crate during travel.

Meet our veterinary expert, Rebecca

This article has been checked by veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed MRCVS. Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!

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