Crate Training a Dog - Rules of Crate Training for Puppies

Crate Training a Dog

Crate Training is a method that is best used on puppies. The idea is to use the crate as confinement to the rest of the house until the dog understands certain rules. The trick to this method is to eliminate the dog’s fear of the crate and instead, to have him view it as his own personal space

Why would I want to use a crate?

  • Crates are used to help house break puppies

  • Provide your dog with a sense of safety and security

  • Makes traveling with the dog easier

  • Will make it easier for the dog to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings

  • Crates can help with other training methods and dog behavioral problems

Does crate training a dog take a long time to teach?

The time it takes in order to teach your dog to love his crate greatly depends on the following factors:

  • The age of your dog (older dog’s are more stubborn)

  • Your dog’s temperament

  • The dog’s past experiences

  • Your training methods (consistency, patience, repetition, teach in small steps, and kindness)

If you meet the above requirements, then your dog may become accustom to the crate in a few weeks or less.


What is the best technique to use when crate training a dog?

There are a number of ways to help your dog become comfortable with his crate. For instance, place the crate in a location of your home that your family normally occupies (e.g. the family room). It is recommended to place a dog floor mat or a dog bed inside the crate as well. You may also place treats near and inside the crate in order to provoke your dog to approach it. Never force your dog to go near or inside the crate. Your goal is to create a pleasant experience and view of the crate from the dog’s standpoint.

Place the dog’s food and water near the crate as well as his toys. When you feed him, try placing the food inside the crate (maybe a quarter of the way in). Each time you feed him, increase the distance inside the crate.

If your dog begins to eat inside his crate on a regular basis, you have made a “big step”. He is beginning to feel comfortable with the crate. Focus your attention on training him to stay inside the crate for a longer period of time. Encourage him to enter his crate with a treat in your hand. When he enters the crate, close the door and hand him the treat. Sit with him for a period of time. Let him out if he begins to cry. Continue this process for as long as it takes. Remember, your goal is not to frighten the dog but to make him feel comfortable in his crate.


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