Training your puppy to use their crate
Crate training takes patience, but done gently it gives your puppy a safe, comfortable space of their own. Here's how to introduce the crate step by step.
The short answer
Introduce the crate slowly. Put it somewhere your puppy likes to be, add a blanket and toys, leave the door open and let them explore in their own time, using treats to encourage them. Then feed meals in the crate. Once your puppy is happy eating there, close the door for a few seconds and build up gradually while you're nearby. Never use the crate as a punishment or leave your puppy shut in for long periods.
Key considerations
- 01Never force your puppy into the crate or shut them in straight away.
- 02Never use the crate as a punishment.
- 03Don't leave your puppy shut in for long periods during the day.
- 04Go at your puppy's pace; it may take days or longer.
A crate can be useful in lots of ways. It can help with toilet training, gives your puppy a safe place to rest, and can make car journeys safer.
Many dogs like a cosy, enclosed place to rest, but not every puppy takes to a crate straight away. If it's introduced badly, a puppy can develop a fear of the crate.
The good news is that most puppies can learn to feel relaxed in a crate, as long as you start early and go about it gently and patiently.
Introduce the crate gently
The worst way to introduce a crate is to put your puppy straight in and shut the door. Nobody likes feeling trapped, and puppies are no different. Instead, treat the crate as a normal, pleasant part of the home.
Put the crate in a part of the house where your puppy likes to spend time. Add their blanket and a few toys, and leave the door open so they can wander in when they feel like it.
If they're backing off, let them work it out on their own. Don't push them in, and don't get too excited or frustrated if it takes longer than you expected. You can scatter a few tasty treats inside to encourage them.
The aim is for your puppy to walk into the crate happily and confidently when they're ready. This could take days, so be patient.
Use the crate for mealtimes
Once your puppy goes into the crate on their own, the next step is to help them stay in there for longer. Feeding meals in the crate builds a positive link with being inside.
Place the food bowl at the back of the crate so your puppy goes all the way in. If they're unsure, start with the bowl near the entrance and move it a little further back at each meal until it's at the back.
Building up time with the door closed
Once your puppy is happy eating in the crate, start closing the door for a few seconds, then build up gradually while you're nearby. Never use the crate as a punishment, and don't leave your puppy shut in for long periods during the day.
Open the door before your puppy becomes upset. If they seem anxious, go back a step and build up more slowly.
Questions readers ask
How long does crate training take?
It varies. Some puppies are happy walking into a crate within a few days; others need longer. Go at your puppy's pace and avoid rushing to close the door.
Should I use the crate as a punishment?
No. Never use the crate as a punishment. The crate should always feel like a safe, pleasant place for your puppy.
About this article
- Written by Mypetzilla Editorial Team
- Published
- Updated
This article is general pet advice, not veterinary or legal advice. If your pet is unwell, speak to a vet.
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