Why crate train
Crates support potty training, prevent unsafe chewing when you cannot watch, and give your puppy a quiet place to rest. Used well, a crate is not a punishment.
The basic steps
- Make it comfortable. Pick a size where your puppy can stand, turn and lie down.
- Build positive associations. Feed meals and offer chews in or near the crate.
- Start short. Gradually extend time while you are in the room, then out of sight.
- Keep routines. Crate time before and after play, outings and potty breaks.
Common problems
- Crying or barking when first crated.
- Accidents in the crate if the puppy is left too long.
- A crate used as the only place the puppy ever rests.
How Jacob handles it
Crate training is part of the Puppy Head Start Program, along with potty training and exposure. Your puppy lives in Jacob's home, so routines are practiced around normal household life, then handed over to you.