🐶 Our Top 10 Crate Training Tips

Create a Positive Association Always introduce the crate with enrichment treats, toys, and praise. Never use it as punishment as it is their safe haven.

Choose the Right Size Your dog should be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably. Use a divider for growing puppies to gradually increase space.

Start Slow Let your dog explore the crate at their own pace with the door open. Gradually increase time inside with the door closed.

Use for Calm, Not Chaos Place your dog in the crate after meals, playtime, or walks, when they’re naturally ready to rest. Not when they’re over-excited.

Pick the Right Location Position the crate somewhere your dog can feel part of the action, like the living room or bedroom - not isolated or tucked away.

Create Comfort Inside Add an orthopaedic mat (like the Peppa Plump) and something familiar-smelling (like a blanket or toy) to make it cozy and secure.

Establish a Routine Dogs thrive on consistency. Use the crate at the same times daily like nap time, after meals, and bedtime.

Don’t Rush Night Crating For young puppies, expect a few overnight toilet trips. Keep it low-key and return them to the crate calmly.

Ignore Short-Term Whining If you’re confident they don’t need to toilet, wait for a few seconds of quiet before opening the door to avoid reinforcing barking.

Keep it Going Long-Term Even after your dog is trained, keep the crate as their special space. Many dogs choose to use it daily on their own.

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