How to Crate Train Your Dog in Easy Steps

We all want a well-behaved dog that doesn’t tear things up and goes to the bathroom outside — and crate training is an important part of that. It creates a safe environment for your dog that teaches them responsibility and independence.

 Choose the Right Crate for Your Dog

“You want to get one that’s durable, comfortable, and flexible with whatever training you’re doing,” says Flayton. For dogs that prefer to sleep in the dark, she recommends kennel or airline crates (which are more enclosed), while wire ones work best for other dogs. It’s important, she notes, that you don’t buy a crate that is too big for your dog. “Depending on how big your dog is going to get, buy the right crate for their adult size,” she advises. “Then get a divider so you can build the space and grant them more and more space.”

Establish the Proper Mindset

“The more the dogs associate the crate with a relaxed mindset, the more they’ll ultimately enjoy hanging out in there,” says Flayton. If you put the dog in the crate when they’re playing, then they’ll want to come back out and continue to play. But if you bring them in it when they’re calm, they will likely view it as a place of rest. Start by bringing them in for 10 minutes at a time and work your way up from there.

Determine How Your Dog Will Be Most Comfortable.

Give the Dog a Treat After They Go Into the Crate

Play Crate Games