How to Crate Train a New Puppy

Crate training a new puppy (or even a new dog for that matter) is essential to prevent accidents, chewing and other bad behaviors.
Often, this is a daunting task - especially when faced with a whining, crying, brand new puppy.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a puppy, or new dog
• a kennel
• toys
• blanket
• lots and lots of patients

1. Get (purchase, borrow, trade) a kennel. Most people recommend a small kennel, one that is just big enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around and lay down in. Kennel training works on the premise that dogs won't go potty where they sleep. A small kennel puts this theory to work.
   
   If getting a small kennel isn't feasible, a large kennel, split up will work just fine.

2. Set up the kennel.
   You will need to provide the puppy a soft, comfortable place to lay down (such as a blanket or met), toys to play with (only puppy toys please) and stuff to chew on.

3. Introduce puppy to his or her new bedroom. Place the puppy inside with the toys and chewies. Do not close the door just yet, give the puppy time to check out this new place.

4. Before you put the puppy in the kennel, and expect it to stay there, make sure it has (1) not hungry, (2) gone potty and (3) is actually tired enough to sleep.
   
   Make sure YOU are ready to listen to whining. Lots and lots of whining, barking, howling, any noise a puppy can make to either sound demanding or pathetic, it will try.

5. If you have followed step #4, it is ok to let him or her cry for a while. When the puppy stops throwing a fit, go ahead and take him or her out of the crate and take it right outside.
   
   If you take the puppy out during the crying, it will think this is all that is needed to get out ... and training will have to start over.

Tips & Warnings

• It may help the puppy to be located in the living room, dining room or some other 'family' place. This way they don't feel alone while in the kennel
• It is often helpful to cover the crate with a blanket. A lot of times this is all that is needed to convince a young puppy to fall asleep.
• Have patients ... your puppy just came from a life of constant companionship and multiple bed buddies.
• NEVER hit the kennel while the puppy is inside
• NEVER yell at the puppy while it is in the kennel
• NEVER use the kennel for punishment
• NEVER leave the puppy in the kennel for longer than absolutely necessary after it wakes up.
• NEVER force your puppy to eliminate in the kennel

[southernmel]

on 11/18/2009 good advice!

[kims3003]

on 10/19/2009 very true and accurate and fine instructions and advise. well done

[cdog1790]

on 9/8/2009 Great tips. 5*

[NatalieJ]

on 8/25/2009 Great article. Crate training does work! 5*

[imme911]

on 8/4/2009 good tips