How to Crate Train a Puppy
Learn effective crate training tips for your puppy. Explore how crate training aids potty training for a happy, well-behaved dog.
Key Takeaways
- Crate training your puppy helps keep them safe and teaches them independence, which will help them grow into a confident adult.
- By introducing your puppy’s crate gradually and keeping the experience positive, you will set yourself and your puppy up for success.
- Skipping crate training could lead to accidents that hurt your wallet and your puppy.
- Pet insurance can cover vet costs associated with unexpected accidents.
Your new puppy may be small — but their vet bills might not be.
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Your dog’s crate can help them relax, especially during highly stressful moments, and alleviate any separation anxiety they may have. A crate can also give you peace of mind when you aren’t around since you’ll know your pup is safe and secure.
With some patience, positive reinforcement, and a little practice, you and your newest family member will be crate-training pros in no time.
✔️ Reviewed by multiple licensed veterinarians
✔️ Updated with the latest medical data
✔️ Compiled from veterinary research
- The Benefits of Crate Training Your Puppy
- Crate Training Tips & Tricks
- Step #1: Introduce your puppy to the crate
- Step #2: Feed your puppy in the crate
- Step #3: Increase the time your puppy is in the crate
- Step #4: Crate your puppy when you leave
- Keeping your puppy in their crate at night
- Skipping Crate Training Could Cost You
- FAQ
The Benefits of Crate Training Your Puppy
Crate training is recommended for puppies for several reasons. Puppies are naturally curious and will inevitably get into trouble if left alone. If you allow your puppy free rein of your home, they will likely end up chewing the couch cushions or getting into the trash. Your puppy (and your home) will be much safer if you use a crate when you are not around.
Crate training is also a positive way to teach your puppy how to be alone and build their self-confidence. A confident puppy who learns how to adapt to various situations is more likely to grow into a well-rounded, secure adult dog without behavioral problems.
Crate Training Tips & Tricks
Crate training can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your pup’s personality, age, and past experiences. You can begin training your puppy when they are 8 weeks old, since they are adaptable to new routines at this age. The key is to take things slowly and keep the experience positive so your dog makes pleasant and comforting associations with their crate.
Remember, training your pup, whether for sleeping in their crate or potty training, takes time, patience, and dedication.
Here are the steps to follow when crate-training your puppy:
Step #1: Introduce your puppy to the crate
The first step in crate training is introducing your pup to the crate in a positive way.
Place the crate where your family spends most of their time. Keep the door open to allow your dog to explore the crate at their leisure. Place comfortable bedding and a few toys inside the crate to make it appealing.
Curious puppies may naturally venture into the crate and begin to sleep in it on their own. If your dog doesn't seem to notice the crate, here's how to introduce them:
- Bring your puppy close to the crate and talk to them in a happy tone. Keep the door securely open so it doesn’t swing closed and frighten your puppy.
- Place treats near the door and inside the crate to lure your dog in.
- If treats fail, toss your pup's favorite toys into the crate. Stay close to your puppy throughout this process so they feel safe.
Remember that you want your puppy to form positive associations with their crate, so never use the crate as a form of punishment.
Step #2: Feed your puppy in the crate
After your pup starts to become familiar with their crate, start feeding your dog in the crate to create additional positive associations with it.
If your dog happily enters the crate for their food, try placing the bowl deeper inside to encourage them to go further. If your puppy is hesitant, place the dish only as far as they are comfortable going.
As your dog becomes more comfortable with the crate, gradually place the dish a little farther inside. Once they’re more comfortable, try closing the door for short periods while they eat.
On the first try, open the door right after your dog finishes their meal to let them out, and praise them for staying inside the crate. Gradually leave the door closed a little longer each time, allowing your dog to stay in the crate after eating.
If your dog starts whining, try shortening the time the door is closed until they feel more comfortable. Gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable.
(Ensure a proper fit, so your pup feels comfortable and secure. Source: World Animal Foundation)
Step #3: Increase the time your puppy is in the crate
Eventually, your dog will eat in their crate without fear or anxiety. Once this happens, begin confining them for short periods while you are home. Create a routine or set of instructions to direct them into their crate.
Here are some ideas:
- Call your puppy to the crate and give them a treat.
- Give a voice cue for entering the crate. Mention the word "crate" while pointing inside with a treat in your hand.
- Once your dog enters the crate, praise them and reward them with the treat, and then close the door.
- Stay near the crate for a few minutes, and then walk away for a short time. When you return, again sit near the crate for a few minutes before letting your dog out.
- Repeat this process several times a day. Gradually increase the time your puppy is in the crate while you are out of sight.
Step #4: Crate your puppy when you leave
Once your pup can rest calmly in their crate for 30 minutes, they are ready to be left alone. At first, only leave your house for short periods. Use your regular routine to get your puppy into the crate. Reward them with a treat and praise for entering the crate calmly. You can also place toys inside the crate to entertain your puppy while you are away.
It’s a good idea to place your puppy in their crate for a short time (five to 20 minutes) before you leave, so they don’t immediately associate the crate with your absence. Crating your dog for short periods while you're home also helps prevent them from associating the crate with being left alone. However, avoid crating your pup for too long before you leave the house.
When you leave, do so calmly and quietly. When you return, keep your greetings calm and low-key. Avoid running to your dog’s crate to let them out, talking loudly, or getting your puppy excited. Remaining calm during departures and returns can help prevent your dog from becoming anxious.
Keeping your puppy in their crate at night
Having your puppy sleep in their crate is a good way to ensure they stay safe and out of trouble while you sleep. Use your regular routine to get your pup into their crate at bedtime. While you are potty-training your puppy, keep the crate in your bedroom so you can quickly let them out if they need to go during the night. Sleeping near you will also help your puppy feel safe at night. Once your dog is comfortable sleeping in their crate, you can move the crate to another room.
(Choose based on your puppy's needs and your lifestyle needs. Source: Petco)
Skipping Crate Training Could Cost You
If you allow your puppy to roam freely, they will likely destroy a pillow or chew up a couch when you’re not there to watch over them.
Vet bills can add up quickly, especially if your dog eats something they shouldn’t when free roaming.
Pet insurance can help cover unexpected accidents and injuries - including foreign object ingestion. It’s best to enroll in a pet insurance policy when you first bring your puppy home, before they develop any conditions that will be flagged as “pre-existing” (and therefore would be excluded from coverage).
Get expert guidance to find the best pet insurance for your best friend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to crate train a puppy?
The crate training process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your puppy’s age, temperament, and past experiences. Younger puppies often adapt faster because they are still forming habits.
How do I crate train a puppy at night without them crying?
To crate train a puppy at night, start by placing the crate in your bedroom so your puppy feels safe and close to you. Make sure they’ve gone potty before bedtime, and offer a soft blanket and a chew toy inside the crate. If your puppy whines, avoid letting them out immediately, so they don't associate whining with attention. Be patient and consistent—most puppies adjust within a week or two.
Should I cover my puppy’s crate at night?
Some puppies feel more secure with a crate cover at night because it mimics a cozy den. If you choose to cover the crate, ensure there’s still proper airflow and that your puppy isn’t overheating or feeling trapped.
Is crate training puppies cruel?
No, crate training isn’t cruel when done correctly. A crate serves as a safe, comfortable space for your puppy to relax and learn independence. It’s essential to introduce the crate gradually and never use it as a punishment.
How long can I leave my puppy in the crate?
The general rule is one hour per month of age, up to about six months. For example, a three-month-old puppy shouldn't be crated for more than three hours at a time during the day. Puppies can stay in their crate longer overnight, but they may need a potty break.
Can crate training help with potty training?
Yes! Crate training is one of the most effective ways to speed up potty training. Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so they learn to hold their bladder while crated and eliminate only when let outside.
What if my puppy hates the crate?
If your puppy resists crate training, take a step back and reintroduce the crate slowly. Make the space inviting with treats, toys, and praise. Avoid forcing them inside. Patience and positive reinforcement are key to helping your puppy feel comfortable.
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DVM, FFCP
Dr. Angela Beal has worked in private practice and taught veterinary technicians for 15 years. Angela is a veterinarian who loves using her writing to help pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. Since 2020, she has worked full-time within the veterinary education writing and editing industry. Angela lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, two sons, and their spoiled Chihuahua mix, Yogi.
