puppy crate training


How to crate train your puppy

We often think of our bedrooms as our safe spaces. We retreat there when we need privacy or to rest. Your puppy could benefit from a similar space for themselves! Proper crate training has a lot of benefits for your puppy.

Benefits of crate training your puppy

  1. Safe space: The crate could be a positive place for your pet to go when anxious, such as during storms or a busy family party.
  2. Safety when unattended: Let’s face it—puppies get into things. When you’re not home, crating your pup will keep them from destructive behaviors.
  3. Potty training: If your puppy learns that their crate is where they sleep, they won’t want to soil their bed. Crating may help prevent accidents when you’re not around.
  4. Transportation needs: Crates can be useful for transporting your pet, whether by car or plane. An alternate to a crate for traveling in a car is a seatbelt. Your puppy should not roam freely in your vehicle while you’re driving.
  5. Activity restriction post-surgery: After surgery, most veterinarians will recommend activity restriction for an allotted time period. In dogs who aren’t crate-trained, it can be extremely difficult to keep them from roughhousing, jumping or other behaviors. 

We don’t want your puppy to resent their crate, so you should never use the crate as a consequence for bad behavior. 

How to crate train your puppy at night

Your puppy’s crate should be where they sleep at night. Early on, you’ll need to check on them several times throughout the night. For instance, a 2-month-old puppy should be taken outside at least every 2 hours, even overnight. A 3-month-old puppy should be taken outside every 3 hours. Your puppy may not be comfortable staying in the crate all night until they’re around 6 months old. 

Be prepared for some late-night accident cleanups. With consistency, these occurrences will decrease in frequency as your puppy grows, gets used to their routine and learns to eliminate outside. Make sure your puppy’s crate has comfortable (but washable) beds and blankets. It’s a good idea to line the crate in puppy pads for easier cleanup.

How long does it take to crate train your puppy?

Your puppy will likely get used to their crate within 1 to 2 months. This doesn’t mean they won’t have any accidents! Your pup will learn to signal to you when they need to eliminate. They may not be comfortable remaining in the crate overnight until they’re around 6 months old. Make sure to never use the crate as punishment—this can significantly set back your puppy’s crate training! 

To learn more about how to crate train your dog, read: Crate Training and Confinement for Puppies and Dogs.