Article Updated January 23, 2024

With adorable wagging tails and soft fuzzy noses, puppies can be great fun. But, puppies can be equally messy and prone to trouble. Crate training is a great way to help work on your puppy’s potty training routine. And, crates are a great “safe zone” for your puppy to hang out. Your puppy can use it as a den during the day or as a safe spot to stay out of trouble when you’re away from home. Here’s why you should consider crate training as part of your puppy’s training regime. And, check out some tips and tricks to help it go smoothly. 

Why Crate Training?

You may be wondering why you should attempt crate training over other potty training methods. There are many alternative methods to crate training. These include using a gated-off laundry room or kitchen, potty pads, or even leash-tether training. However, crate training is a great way to get your puppy used to a “safe” space all their own. The crate is also a great “home den” where your puppy can relax comfortably away from noise and people. And, crate training may help your pup remain stress-free if you need to crate them for travel or when staying at the vet. 

Leave your puppy’s crate open when not in use so they can use it to rest at any time. And remember, crate training should NEVER be used for punishment. The crate should always be used as a positively associated tool to assist in potty training and other training techniques, not as a way to punish or harm your puppy.

Supplies You’ll Need

You’ll need a few supplies before you start crate training. The first, and most important one, is the crate. Opt for a crate that will be usable by your puppy at their adult size. Most wire crates come with dividers that can be used to gradually increase the area your puppy can lay in over time, working with them as they grow. Make sure your puppy can comfortably turn around and lay down but can’t make a mess. 

In addition to the crate, you may want some additional items. These include puppy pads or chew-safe bedding to place in the crate. Consider additional baby gates or X-pens for creating a safe play area such as a laundry room or kitchen when the crate is not in use. 

Your Puppy’s First Time in the Crate

Your puppy’s first time in the crate may be a stressful one for both you and your puppy. It’s best to get them gradually used to the crate first. Start by leaving the crate open, and tossing a few fun items such as toys or treats into it. Encourage your puppy to explore the crate without locking them in. Once they seem comfortable, you can then start closing the crate door — while offering a few treats through the openings as you do.

After your puppy is used to going in and out of the crate with the door open and closed, you can move on to leaving your puppy in the crate for longer periods. This may be as short as a few minutes, or up to an hour. Remember, you should only crate your puppy for as long as they can hold their potty — generally 1-2 hours per 2 months of age — until their bladders are fully developed.

If your puppy seems stressed out, wait a few moments to give them a chance to settle in, then end the training session. This period of adjustment can take anywhere from a few minutes or hours to several weeks. It’s best to go at your puppy’s pace so that the crate remains a positive, fun place to be. 

Do’s and Don’ts of Crate Training

Do make the crate a fun place for your puppy! When not in use, make it a great place by adding toys, treats, and comfy bedding to hang out in. If your puppy is struggling being away from their littermates, you can help. Add a warm water bottle or ticking clock wrapped in a towel to give them something soothing to snuggle. A blanket or towel draped over the crate can also increase comfort. 

Don’t use the crate for punishment. Don’t crate your puppy if they have an accident elsewhere, are being bad, or are just generally being a puppy. This can increase negative associations with the crate, which you don’t want. Instead, try other methods to stop your puppy’s bad behavior, such as distracting from nipping with a toy, training a new command to increase focus, or moving your puppy to a different room away from the distraction.

Do reward your puppy for interest in the crate and calm behaviors. If you see your puppy hanging out in the crate, offer a few treats and praise. And when your puppy is calm when crating them, offer a few more!

Don’t stress your puppy out. Leaving them in the crate when they’re panicking or keeping them crated longer than they can hold their potty will only lead to further stress. Even when potty training, make sure you’re still taking your puppy out every 1-2 hours until they can hold it longer. And, if they’re stressed out and whining in the crate, move back a few steps in the training process until they’re comfortable.

What to Do if Your Puppy Isn’t Enjoying the Crate

Sometimes, puppies just can’t handle crate training. This may be due to stress or trauma from being crated previously, or it just isn’t a good fit. In cases of severe separation anxiety, the crate may lead to further distress. If your puppy is struggling, looking into alternative methods of training such as using X-pens or baby gates may help. It’s also a good idea to speak with a trainer or local animal behaviorist to make sure you’re not making any mistakes that could be causing your puppy stress.

Crate training is a great tool to help your puppy with potty training and provide a safe, comfortable place to relax. Interested in more puppy training techniques? Check out our Puppy Place for more fun articles! Or, get started on the right paw with Puppies, Puzzles, and Potty Training — a book that is sure to make life with your puppy a breeze!