How to Train a Pup to Sleep in a Cage

Cage training--also called crate training--offers new pups a safe and cozy environment, much like the den an animal might burrow for itself when out in the wild. Cage training aids in housebreaking efforts because of the animal's natural instinct not to soil where it sleeps. It also allows you a safe place to leave your pup overnight or when away from the home. Most pups will become quickly acclimated to their new "bedroom" if you make the cage a happy, soothing and inviting environment for your dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Soft bedding
  • Dog treats
  • Chew toys
  • Food bowl
  • Drippable water system
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a cage of the proper size for your pup, keeping in mind the growth potential of your dog. Some crates provide dividers that allow you to expand the area as the puppy gets bigger. Size the area cozily for your puppy, with enough room for it to lie down comfortably, turn around and stand up.

    • 2

      Set up the cage so it is comfortable and fun for the new puppy. Add some soft, washable bedding and purchase a half-dozen or so chew toys that you can rotate in--one or two at a time--to keep things new for your dog. Don't overwhelm the pup with too many toys or playthings inside the cage at the same time.

    • 3

      Begin cage training by feeding the new puppy inside the crate--both its meals and its treats. Use a command such as "Kennel up!" and toss in a treat or fill up a food bowl so the dog will have happy associations with the command. Do not close the cage these first times; wait until the puppy has time to adjust to the interior and readily goes inside.

    • 4

      Keep the puppy in the crate for short, two-hour periods in the beginning, making sure to give it plenty of exercise and playtime in between time spent in the cage. Tiring the puppy out well before cage time will allow it to settle down and maybe even nap, which will make nighttime crate training all the easier.

    • 5

      Stay next to the crate the first few times after you close the door, to comfort and assure your new pup that the process is okay. Pet your dog through the cage and offer soothing words, but do not let it out of the cage while it is complaining. Wait until the pup settles down, even if you need to distract it with a treat or toy. Let the puppy out as soon as it stops whining.

    • 6

      Avoid using the crate as punishment or discipline; you do not want your pup's new safe haven to have negative associations. If you need to get the puppy out of the way while you clean up or for safety reasons, always limit discipline times to short 10- or 15-minute increments.

    • 7

      Do not cage your dog excessively. Use it overnight, while at work or when gone for a reasonable amount of time. Make sure your puppy gets adequate time to play, go to the bathroom and run before you leave it inside for long periods of time.