How to successfully crate-train your puppy

• Author : Admin
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• Blog Category : Crate Training
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• Created on 10-19-2021

Training your puppy to be comfortable and happy with spending the night in their crate is one of the best decisions that you as a puppy owner can make. Crate-training allows your puppy to have a comfortable; relaxing place to get their much needed sleep (up to 20 hours each day!) while you can have your peace of mind knowing that your puppy is safe and will not be getting into trouble.

Begin by choosing an appropriate crate for your puppy’s breed size. The crates in stores should be labeled based on the size of the dog in pounds, so buy a crate that will be big enough for your puppy when they have finished growing. Once you begin crate-training, you must commit to it and be consistent. Nothing will confuse a puppy more than being placed in their crate to sleep for the night only to be removed to sleep with you before being put back in their crate again again. Puppies will generally whine for a few minutes before calming down, so you have to be strong and resist the urge to take them out to allow them to get used to the crate.

Allow easy access to the crate and avoid putting your puppy in the crate as a punishment. The crate should be a safe space for your puppy to sleep or relax, so try putting a toy or treat inside the crate to create a positive association for your puppy and the crate. To help house-train your puppy while simultaneously crate-training, immediately carry your puppy outside to “go potty” after being in their crate to lessen the chance of them doing their business on the floor or in the crate. Be sure to let your puppy outside at least every few hours to use the bathroom and avoid keeping them in the crate for long periods of time.