After bringing your new puppy home, you’ll probably want to have them with you all the time, but it is important to have a safe space for your puppy to put your puppy when you can’t supervise them. Even if you want your pooch to sleep with you in your bed, having a crate provides you with somewhere to place your puppy when you are busy, have to run to the store, or need to do anything without a little bundle of fur running underfoot. Puppies also sleep most of the day, so it is important to provide a comfortable, safe space for them to sleep and relax. If you crate-train your puppy, you won’t have to worry about them chewing up dangerous or valuable items in the house, such as furniture or electrical cords. If you live in a multi-level home, having your puppy in a secure, enclosed location also ensures they won’t fall down steps or wander where they shouldn’t.
Crate-training early on can reduce stress for both you and your puppy. Some dislike the idea of having a puppy in a crate because they think it makes the puppy sad, but crate-training the right way can lead to a happier, healthier puppy. Simple tips like adding a blanket or toy to the crate or giving your puppy easy access to the crate throughout the day will make crate-training easier and more positive for you and your puppy. Avoid using the crate as a punishment and remember to let your puppy outside often to help limit accidents inside the crate, especially when first beginning to crate-train. By making the crate a comfortable, positive space, your puppy will have a calming place to curl up while you have the peace of mind that your puppy is safe and happy.