How to Crate Train a Puppy

Never believe that crate training hurts your dog. Quite the opposite; if you don’t crate train your new puppy, you’ll be hurting him both now and in the future. Reasons for crate training include:

• Used for housebreaking

• Keeps your puppy safe and protects your house and furniture from damage

• Prepares your puppy for travel and/or future kenneling

Setting up a Crate

• Size– Select a crate that has large enough room for your puppy to sit, stand, or stretch out on its side. Realizing your puppy will grow, you should choose one that still fits him when he’s an adult dog. Many crates come with a partition that you can insert and later remove as your dog matures. If you place your puppy in an over-sized crate, he may be tempted to relieve himself in a corner of the cage, away from where he sleeps. However, if he’s partitioned off, having less space, he’s more likely to “hold it in”.

• Bedding – Use an old towel, blanket, or washable crate pad for bedding. Include a small treat or safe chew toy (without a squeaker that your puppy can remove which could possibly be a choking hazard.) In other words, make it as inviting as possible.

• Setting up - Set up your new puppy’s crate before you even bring him home. Crates are sold at pet stores department stores, as well as pet supply catalogs and by ordering online. Wire crates are better than plastic ones as some dogs will chew through the plastic. Don’t select an isolated spot for the crate, but place it in an area where your puppy can socialize with you and the family, such as the kitchen or family room. When you go to bed, position the crate in your bedroom so you can keep an eye on him and he won’t feel abandoned. What’s more, you can hear him when he needs to go potty.

How Long to Crate a Puppy

The length of time you crate a puppy depends on his age. A basic rule of thumb to remember is “don’t crate him longer than you know he can wait to eliminate”. Go by the number of months of the puppy. For example if he’s four months old, don’t crate any longer than four hours. Also, be sure to remove any collars and/or leashes to avoid possible choking accidents.

It’s best to keep by his side the first few days (or weeks). When you do have to go out, place his crate (with door opened) in an enclosed area such as a bathroom or laundry area with newspapers on the floor. Just make sure to "puppy proof" the room so it's safe.

Give Him Time to Eliminate Outdoors

Before placing him in his new crate, give him plenty of time to exercise and go potty outdoors. As soon as you see him doing his business, lavish him with praise. Then, when he’s tired, take him inside to be introduced to his new house.

Expect Crying

It’s only natural your new puppy will cry or whimper when first placed in his crate. However, it’s important that you don’t give in to his tears. You can place a reassuring finger through the crate bars and soothe him by saying, “it’s okay, etc.” But DON’T take him out of the crate. Only reward him with time out when he stops crying.

Finally, remember that crate training should be done with a positive attitude. In other words, reward with praise rather than punish with harsh words.

Crating is Good for Your Dog

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