Crate Training Tips for a Puppy

A common misconception is that it is cruel to keep a puppy in a crate when you are not at home. Though extended periods in a crate is not fair to the puppy, using it in moderation provides your dog with peace of mind. The crate is secure and quiet, and many dogs will view it as a their den. Crates are also an important house-training tool, ensuring your home stays clean while you're gone.

  1. General Caution

    • Crate training is a process that takes time. If you rush your puppy, she might begin to view the crate negatively, and resist going inside. Do not use the crate as a punishment. You want her to like being in there, not view it as a prison.

    Acclimating Your Dog to the Crate

    • Start the crate training by feeding your puppy near the crate. Do not force her in. Let her explore on her own, giving her a treat when she goes in without prompting. Gradually, over several days or weeks, move the food bowl inside the crate, until she is being fed in the crate.

    Start Shutting the Door

    • When your puppy is happily going into the crate, begin shutting the door while she is eating. The first time you do this, open the door and let her out as soon as she has finished.

    Lengthen Time

    • Begin to lengthen the time she spends in the crate after eating. During this period, the crate should only be used while you are home and she can see you.

    Leaving

    • As you lengthen the time she is in the crate, start to leave her sight while she is inside. Do this is in 5-to 10-minute increments based on her behavior. If she becomes anxious or upset, you are moving too quickly.

    Crate When You Leave

    • After you can leave the room without her being anxious for 30 minutes, you can start crating her when you leave. Remember, however, that puppies have small bladders and need to go out often, so don't be gone too long!

    Problems

    • You may find that your puppy whines and yips when confined. There are a few reasons for this--she needs to go out or she is testing to see if you will relent and let her out; she is anxious about you leaving; or the process has proceeded too quickly. If this happens, ignore the whining for about 10 minutes. If it does not stop, quietly take her out to go potty and return her directly to the crate. If she is still whining, she might have anxiety issues. It would be best to start the crate-training process again to try and determine the cause.

    A Note About Attention

    • You should not overly praise your dog when she is getting out of the crate. Be matter-of-fact about it to help prevent anxiety while you are gone.