How to Properly Crate Train a Puppy

Behaviors learned as a puppy will be carried into adulthood, whether good or bad. Teaching a puppy what behaviors are expected at an early age, including being in a crate, establishes a pattern that provides structure and comfort in the future, as well as keeping the dog at ease for travel and trips to the vet. As long as the crate is the appropriate size for the breed of the animal, based on height and weight, and it is allowed time for sufficient daily exercise, crate training is not harmful.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog
  • Crate
  • Treats
  • Toys
  • Blanket, towel or dog bed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the door to the crate to allow easy access on the puppy's own terms. Place a towel, blanket or dog bed inside the crate to make a comfortable bed. Also place toys and treats inside to attract its attention.

    • 2

      Place the crate in the room most frequently used in the house. Each time the puppy goes into the crate on its own, provide plenty of praise to create a positive association with the crate.

    • 3

      Once it is comfortable with the crate, feed the dog inside the crate with the door closed. Open the door before it is finished eating so the puppy is not frightened.

    • 4

      Increase the amount of time the puppy spends in the crate with the door closed in five-minute increments. If it whines, scratches or barks, do not open the door; the door should only be opened when the dog is quiet. This teaches proper crate behavior and reinforces its reward for being quiet. If the puppy continues to show signs of stress for long periods, go back to the previous amount of time and begin working toward increasing it again.