Crate Training
A complete guide to helping your new puppy feel safe, secure, and right at home in their crate from day one.
Why Crate Training?
One of the very first things you will be working on with your puppy once you bring them home is crate training. Some people feel that crates are cruel — but this couldn't be further from the truth. A crate is a safe place for your puppy, and they will learn to love having their own cozy space.
In addition, dogs often need to be crated at the vet's office or groomer, boarding facilities, during travel, and crates are crucial in the event of natural disasters or emergencies.
The Goal
Once trained, many dogs and puppies choose to rest in their kennel even when they don't have to. The crate becomes their safe den.
Choosing the Right Crate
Wire Kennels
Convenient because they can be folded down and stored or transported easily, and usually come with a divider to make the kennel smaller for your young puppy.
Plastic Kennels
Have the advantage of feeling more den-like for your puppy, but the same can be achieved by covering your wire crate with a blanket.
What We Recommend
For miniature sized puppies (under 20 lbs full grown) we recommend a 36" crate. Medium sized puppies (under 40 lbs full grown) a 42" crate. And standard sized puppies a 48" crate.
Making It Cozy
We like to place a kennel pad & blanket in the crate, something that will be easy to wash if your puppy has an accident. As well as a chew toy to entertain them, and a favorite toy.
Keep the kennel door open for your puppy to explore its new crate. You can sit on the floor with your puppy and play with toys in and around the kennel. Try to make it a positive experience.
We like to give a treat when we put the puppy in the kennel. This creates a positive association right from the start.
First Few Days Tips
- 1Have the puppy's crate wherever you are when you're home — this will encourage her to hang out in her den without feeling lonely or isolated.
- 2The best place is a central room like your kitchen or family room.
- 3At night, put a small carrier or kennel on your nightstand so the puppy doesn't feel alone.
- 4If they are crying, put your fingers in the kennel and talk to the puppy to comfort it.
- 5This isn't forever — just until your puppy adjusts to their new home and family.
Remember: Puppies Need Their Family
Puppies come with a pre-programmed need to be around their mother and littermates. The hardest part about crate training is helping them understand that the crate doesn't mean they will be separated from their family.
Then you can move the crate into its permanent place in your home.
Patience & Love
Crate training a puppy takes time and patience. Stay focused on the end goal: giving your pup a safe, secure location to call her own.