Crate training basics

Making the crate a good place

• Put it somewhere your family spends time, not tucked away in a basement.
• Add a soft blanket or towel — Mom's Scent Blanket from us is perfect here.
• Start by feeding meals near the crate, then inside with the door open. Toss treats in and let your puppy go in on their own.
• Never force your puppy into the crate.

Building up time

• Start with the door closed for a few seconds while you are right there. Slowly work up.
• Stay in the room at first so they do not associate the crate with you leaving.
• Give them something to work on. A stuffed Kong or chew toy makes crate time rewarding.

How long is too long

• As a rough guide, puppies can hold their bladder about one hour for every month of age.
• During the day, no more than three to four hours at a stretch. Overnight is different since they sleep longer.
• If they cry, wait for a brief pause before responding so they do not learn that crying gets them out. Then check whether they need a potty break. The principle is not "let them cry it out." It is "do not reward the crying itself."

The most important rule

Never use the crate as punishment. If your puppy sees it as a bad place, it stops working. The goal is a dog who walks into their crate on their own because they feel safe there.

We have already started gentle crate introduction with your puppy before they go home. Ask what we did so you can build on it.