The Best Ways to Crate Train a Puppy

Although some people consider crating a dog or puppy inhumane, an indoor crate satisfies a dog's natural instinct as a den animal. Introducing dog to a kennel crate early in it's life will help it see the crate as its own room to enjoy throughout his lifetime. Crate training also provides the dog owner a way to housebreak the dog, minimize the development of destructive habits and provide a safe way to transport the dog. Crate training may take several days to a few weeks. It is important to take each step slowly and refrain from moving to the next step before the dog is ready. Above all, never use the crate to punish your dog.

  1. Crate Preparation

    • Whether it is a kennel type crate or a wire mesh type, fasten the door back or remove the top to allow the dog to enter and explore it. Place the crate in an area where members of the family are usually present. Supply the crate with the dog's toys, water and a soft towel or blanket to be used for bedding. Dog treats put on the far end of the door opening will encourage the dog to enter.

    Introduction

    • Begin feeding the dog his meals in the crate. Place the food dish in the far end of the crate if he is already comfortable entering. A dog who is still reluctant to enter should be fed closer to the entrance. The plate should be placed further in the crate with each future feeding. When he is comfortable eating in the crate, close the door until done eating. Keep the door closed for a longer time with each feeding until he has stayed in the crate for ten minutes. Do not let the dog out if it cries, or it will know that crying will get it out of the crate.

    Extending the Crate Time

    • Begin extending the time the dog spends in the crate. This should begin once the dog is comfortable eating in the crate. Encourage the dog with a treat while giving a command to enter the crate. Praise and reward it with the treat when it enters. Close the door and sit near the crate for 10 minutes, and then move out of sight for a few minutes. Sit near the crate for 10 minutes more and then let it out. This process should be practiced a few times daily, while increasing the time away from him. Work up the time away to 30 minutes.

    Crate While Away and At Night

    • Give the dog the command to enter the crate five to 20 minutes before leaving the house. Praise and treat the dog for entering and then leave the house quickly. Continue the crate time while you are home to eliminate the dog from associating the crate and isolation. At night, crate the dog in the bedroom. As the dog gets comfortable spending the night in the crate, it can then be moved to the preferred location.