Everything You Need to Know About Crate Training a Puppy
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A dog crate is a valuable tool in your dog training. Crates give your pup a place of their own, keep them out of trouble when you’re not around, and help them feel safe and comfortable. If you’re new to crate training, consider this your guide on how to crate train a puppy. We have all of the details you need, including how long to keep them in the crate, where to place the crate, and how to spot any issues worth looking out for.
To bring you the most valuable information, we consulted with Brian Burton, CEO and founder of Instinct Dog Behavior & Training, who has a bounty of experience, and even holds a Master’s Degree in Animal Behavior. From the best way to crate train a puppy to how to train a puppy at night, the rundown below includes step-by-step instructions, as well as tips for crate training a puppy. But, says Burton, “every puppy is different, so you’ll have to experiment and see what they do best with.” Young dogs have lots to learn—and it’s up to you, their human, to help them get there.
Benefits of Crate Training
Crate training isn’t a must, but it can be a great tool. Getting your pup comfortable with the crate can help with safety, sleep, potty training, travel, boarding, and veterinary care, among other things.
How to Choose the Right Crate
The best crate for puppy training depends on the dog. The product you choose should give your dog room to stand up, fully turn around, sit down, and lie down comfortably, but it shouldn’t be big enough that it gives them enough room for a potty area. Burton recommends sticking with a standard wire or hard-sided crate for puppies. “I would skip soft-sided fabric crates for young puppies. They are often too easy for puppies to chew, scratch, or destroy,” he says.
Step-by-Step Guide to How to Crate Train a Puppy
1. Meet Their Needs
Before you put your pup in the crate, make sure that their needs have been taken care of, including a potty break, exercise, a little connection time, and a drink if they’re thirsty.
2. Comfort Is Key
Create a welcoming environment for your dog by putting safe, comfortable bedding and a food toy or chew inside the crate to keep them from getting bored.
3. Guide Them Inside
Show them the crate and encourage them to go inside. A verbal cue like “Crate!” can help get them used to the process.
3. Start Slowly
When you’re starting out with crate training, stay within eyeshot and only keep them in the crate for short periods. As they get used to the process, gradually increase the time they spend inside and go farther away.
4. Be Consistent
Predictability is vital, so establish a routine with your pup. That could mean anything from taking them outside when they get out of the crate to using the crate at specific times to creating a pre-crate routine that signals when it’s time to go in.
5. Pay Attention, and Get Help When Necessary
Keep an eye and an ear on your fluffy friend when they’re in the crate. If they panic or vocalize, you might be going too quickly. “There is a big difference between a puppy fussing briefly and a puppy panicking,” says Burton. “If barking is shrill, frantic, or lasts more than about 10 minutes, or if the puppy is panting heavily, has wide or red-rimmed eyes, or is gnawing or scratching frantically at the crate, that is a sign that you need to change something up and likely should bring in professional help.”
Expert Tips, Tricks, and What to Know
- Background noise, like classical music, talk radio, or nature sounds, can help your pup relax and sleep. “Some families also find a dog-appeasing pheromone diffuser helpful,” says Burton.
- Your pup needs to see the crate as something good rather than a punishment. “Leave occasional ‘surprises’ in the crate for your puppy to discover, like a special treat or a food-smeared lick mat,” Burton shares. “That helps build a positive association. Sounds simple, but honestly can have a huge impact. Just make sure they don’t see you do it!”
- Just like people, when puppies are overtired, they can get extra nippy and unruly. “Scheduled crate or pen naps are not just about convenience,” says Burton. “They support sleep, emotional regulation, and better behavior overall.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to crate train a puppy?
The answer to this one depends on the puppy. Some dogs pick up training quickly, while others need a bit more time to get the hang of it. “The goal is to help the puppy feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable spending time in a restricted area without direct access to their people,” shares Burton. “That is THE KEY point. It’s a skill that will make their life a lot less stressful, including any boarding stays, travel, or overnight vet visits they may require in the future.”
Should I cover the crate?
Covering the crate can help your dog stay calm. If you do cover the crate, use something lightweight, and leave the back side of the crate uncovered to allow air flow. Shares Burton, “The goal is to make the crate feel calmer and cozier. It should not be used to ignore real distress, overheating, or frantic attempts to escape.”
How long should a puppy be in a crate?
Puppies shouldn’t be in the crate longer than they can hold their bladders. That typically means a few hours at a time during the day, and potentially longer at night.
Where should I keep a puppy crate?
You don’t want your pup to feel isolated, so at first, keep the crate where you and your family spend time. At night, bring the crate into your bedroom so they’re not alone. “As the puppy becomes more comfortable, you can gradually practice having the crate farther from you and eventually out of sight,” shares Burton. And of course, make sure that the crate isn’t in direct sun, isn’t extremely hot or cold, and has adequate ventilation.
Puppy Crate Training Essentials
Before you start crate training, make sure you have all of the supplies you need on hand. Take a look at our recommendations below.
Amy Gordon
Amy Gordon is a freelance writer and editor who splits her time between New York, NY and Vieques, PR. When she’s not at her desk, you’ll probably find her on a plane with her nose in a book, in the Caribbean snorkeling through coral reefs, or on the couch watching true crime TV. Learn more and read her work at www.amygordonmedia.com.
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