How to Crate Train a 7 Week Old Puppy

House training is one of the first lessons pet owners often teach their puppy. Compared to other methods, crate training is one of the best ways to house train a puppy. While starting early to crate train a puppy is ideal, it is important to make sure you are doing it the right way to ensure the training is effective.

Instructions

    • 1

      Buy a crate that is adjustable or just large enough to allow the puppy to turn completely around and lie down. Avoid making the crate too small or too big. An adjustable crate is preferred because it can grow with the puppy.

    • 2

      Place the crate in the kitchen, living room or another room that is used frequently throughout the day. Move the crate into the bedroom at night.

    • 3

      Place a blanket, towel or bedding in the crate to make it comfortable for the puppy and put some toys inside.

    • 4

      Start the puppy on a regular feeding schedule that is maintained on a daily basis. Put the puppy inside the crate for 10 to 15 minutes after meals before taking the puppy outside to allow it to relieve itself.

    • 5

      Praise the puppy each time it eliminates at the appropriate spot to encourage the behavior. After the puppy is done, have a playtime session or take the puppy for a walk before placing the puppy back inside the crate. If the puppy does not relieve itself after 10 minutes, put the puppy back inside the crate for 15 minutes before taking the puppy back out to try again.

    • 6

      Let the 7-week-old puppy outside to eliminate once every hour. The time can be extended as the puppy gets older.