How to Crate Train a Puppy

Crate training is one of the most effective ways to help your young dog or new puppy feel safe and secure while also teaching them important habits.

While the idea of confining your furry friend may seem daunting at first, a crate can actually become a cozy haven where your puppy can relax, sleep, and feel protected. In this guide, we'll walk you through the benefits of crate training, essential tips to get started, and helpful techniques to ensure your pup learns to love their crate.

How to Crate Train a Puppy in 10 Steps

The following pointers are essential when crate training a puppy. We'll discuss more below, but note that the following guidelines are generally considered best practices for crate training in general. 

1. Choose the Right Crate: Select a crate that is appropriately sized for your puppy—large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

2. Introduce the Crate: Place the crate in a quiet area and allow your puppy to explore it on their own. Leave the door open and encourage them to go inside with treats or toys.

3. Make It Comfortable: Add soft bedding and a few toys to make the crate a cozy space. Avoid using the crate as a punishment.

4. Start with Short Periods: Begin closing the door for short periods while your puppy is inside. Gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable.

5. Establish a Routine: Take your puppy to the crate during quiet times, such as after playtime or meals. Use a consistent command, like “crate,” to signal it’s time to go in.

6. Reward Good Behavior: Praise and reward your puppy when they enter the crate willingly. This helps them associate the crate with positive experiences.

7. Practice Leaving the Room: Gradually get your puppy used to being alone in the crate by stepping out of sight for short periods. Slowly increase the duration.

8. Be Patient and Consistent: Crate training takes time. Stay patient and consistent with your approach to help your puppy adjust.

9. Monitor and Adjust: Watch for signs of distress or discomfort. If your puppy seems anxious, take a step back and allow them more time to acclimate.

10. Transitioning Out of the Crate: Once your puppy is comfortable, you can start leaving the crate door open during the day and encourage them to use it as a safe space.

By following these steps, you can help your puppy learn to love their crate and feel secure in their new environment.

Common Issues When Crate Training Puppies

If everything was easy as following a few steps, there wouldn't be a need for resources like this one! Naturally, your little puppy is going to pose some challenges. 

Let's address some of the most common issues. We're confident that at least one or more of the issues below has brought you to this article. 

1. Your Puppy is Peeing in The Crate

Your puppy might pee in the crate due to anxiety or simply from having to go (those little guys are still working on their bladder control!). Here are some general pointers if your puppy is peeing in their crate while you're training them:

• Stay Calm: Reacting with anger can create fear and anxiety around the crate. Remain calm and collected.
• Clean Thoroughly: Clean the area with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odors. This helps prevent your puppy from returning to the same spot.
• Assess Timing: Evaluate your puppy’s schedule. Puppies have small bladders and may need more frequent potty breaks, especially after eating, drinking, or playing.
• Adjust Crate Time: If your puppy is crating for too long, shorten the time to avoid accidents. Gradually increase crate time as they gain bladder control.
• Reinforce Potty Training: Take your puppy outside to their designated potty area immediately after letting them out of the crate. Praise and reward them for going outside.
• Limit Water Intake: Avoid giving water right before crating to help manage their need to pee, especially at night.
• Be Patient: Remember that accidents are a normal part of training. Be patient and consistent with your approach.

2. Your Puppy is Crying and Whining in The Crate

Puppies crying can get frustrating and concerning after a while. You might even think you're doing something wrong, which is most likely not the case. Note that puppies will cry out for you in most cases while crate training begins. 

Even though it's normal for your puppy to do this, consider the following tips for keeping whining to a minimum:

• Ensure Comfort: Make sure the crate is cozy with soft bedding and a favorite toy. Ensure it's in a quiet area away from distractions.
• Check for Needs: Before crating, ensure your puppy has been fed, had a chance to potty, and received enough exercise to tire them out.
• Gradual Acclimation: Start with short crate sessions and gradually increase the time. This helps your puppy adjust to being alone without overwhelming them.
• Avoid Reinforcing Whining: Don’t let your puppy out of the crate while they're whining. Wait for a moment of silence before opening the door, so they learn that calm behavior is rewarded.
• Use a Crate Cover: A light cover can help create a den-like atmosphere, which may make your puppy feel more secure.
• Comfort with Sounds: Consider leaving a ticking clock or a white noise machine nearby to soothe them.
• Use a Cue: Train your puppy to associate the crate with positive experiences by using a consistent command when placing them inside.
• Practice Short Departures: Occasionally, leave the room for a short time while your puppy is in the crate to help them get used to being alone.

3. How Long to Let The Puppy Cry in Its Crate

So long as your puppy is just crying for attention and has all of their needs met, the following guidelines should be a good system to follow when it comes to letting your puppy cry in their crate. 

Beginning Phase (Days 1-3)

• Crying Duration: Allow for about 10-15 minutes of crying before checking on them.
• Response: If they continue to cry after that, assess their needs (potty, comfort).

Middle Phase (Days 4-10)

• Crying Duration: Gradually increase to about 20-30 minutes.
• Response: Only check on them if they seem distressed or need to go outside.

End Phase (Days 11 and Beyond)

• Crying Duration: Allow for up to 30-60 minutes, depending on their comfort level.
• Response: Monitor their behavior, but aim to reinforce calmness by not letting them out immediately when they cry.