Crate Training Your New Puppy

Crate Training Your New Puppy

Crate training is an effective way to teach your puppy to eliminate outside and establish a safe, comfortable space for them to rest when you’re unable to supervise. A crate also helps minimize destructive behavior by providing a controlled area for your dog.

Dogs instinctively avoid going to the bathroom near their eating or sleeping areas. If you choose a crate that’s too large, your puppy may use one corner as a bathroom space. To avoid this, use a crate with a divider to limit the space. This will help encourage your puppy to keep the crate clean. Additionally, selecting a crate that can accommodate your puppy’s adult size is a good investment. Make sure the crate is large enough for your puppy to lie down and stretch comfortably.

Getting Started with Crate Training

1. Introduce the Crate:
   Place chew toys and bedding in the crate to make it inviting. When your puppy enters the crate on their own, praise them excitedly. Allow them to explore the crate freely at first. Once they’re comfortable, give a firm command like “kennel up” and guide them into the crate using a toy. They won’t understand the command initially, but with repetition, they’ll learn that “kennel up” means it’s time to go into their crate.

2. Building Comfort with the Crate:
   After your puppy enters the crate, praise them immediately. Leave the door open and stay in sight so they don’t feel anxious. Gradually close the door for a few minutes while remaining in view. Repeat this process several times a day, allowing plenty of playtime between crate sessions.

3. Increasing Time in the Crate:
   Slowly increase the time your puppy spends in the crate. Begin stepping out of sight for short intervals. If they start to fuss, wait until they calm down before opening the door. Don’t reward them for fussing—this can create an association between whining and being let out.

4. Consistency and Praise:
   Use consistent commands and praise. Over time, your puppy will come to see the crate as a safe, den-like space.

Bathroom Breaks

Puppies have small bladders, so frequent potty breaks are essential. A 6- to 8-week-old puppy should be taken outside every couple of hours. As they get older, they can hold it for longer periods, but puppies should generally be taken out:

• After waking up

• After meals

• After play or training sessions

• Immediately before bedtime

Choose a Potty Area

For successful potty training, it’s important to choose a designated outdoor bathroom spot and stick to it. Here’s how to set up your puppy’s potty routine:

• Always walk your puppy on a leash to the same spot each time.

• Praise and reward them immediately after they finish eliminating in the right area.

• Keep the area clean by removing waste promptly to maintain a consistent scent and prevent accidents in the same spot.

Crating Tips

• Create a Den-Like Environment: Covered crates can make your puppy feel secure, but if you’re using a wire crate, drape a blanket over it to create a cozy, den-like space.

• Scent Comfort: Place an item of clothing with your scent inside the crate to help your puppy feel more at ease.

• Frequent Breaks: Young puppies will need to go outside frequently. At a minimum, they should be taken out every three hours.

• Supervision: Like an infant, your puppy needs constant supervision. Develop a schedule with your family to ensure someone is always available to supervise and play with your puppy.

Nighttime Crating

If possible, place your puppy’s crate in or near your bedroom. This helps them feel secure knowing you’re close by. Puppies under 3 to 4 months old may need a bathroom break during the night. Here are some tips:

• Set an alarm to take your puppy outside at the same time each night. If they don’t go within 10 minutes, take them back to their crate and try again after 10 minutes.

• Gradually extend the time between bathroom breaks by setting your alarm 15 minutes later each week.

As your puppy matures, they will learn to “hold it” through the night, making for a smoother, more restful sleep for both of you.

Going to the Bathroom on Command

You can train your puppy to go to the bathroom on command by associating a unique word or phrase (like “hurry up” or “go potty”) with the act. Use this command while they’re eliminating, and repeat it consistently. Over time, your puppy will learn to respond to the command and go potty on cue. Be sure to praise and reward them for responding correctly.

Handling Accidents

Accidents are inevitable, especially with young puppies who have limited bladder control. Here’s how to handle them:

1. Catch the Act: If you catch your puppy in the act of having an accident inside, say “No” in a firm voice, immediately take them outside to finish, and praise them when they do.

2. Cleaning Up:

   • Remove solids with a plastic bag and blot up urine with paper towels.

   • Use a pet-safe cleaner that doesn’t contain ammonia to neutralize odors. Avoid over-saturating the area.

   • Don’t rub the stain; blot it gently to preserve the fibers of your carpet.

   • If odor persists, use a commercial odor-neutralizer or have the area professionally cleaned.

Important Points to Remember

• Don’t punish accidents: Never rub your puppy’s nose in their mess or shout at them. This only creates fear and confusion. Instead, use a firm “No,” take them outside, and praise them for finishing in the right spot.

• Prevent future accidents: Block access to areas where accidents have occurred. Your puppy may return to these spots due to the scent left behind.

• Stay Consistent: Puppies often have accidents because they aren’t supervised closely or weren’t in their crate where they feel secure. Be vigilant and patient during the training process.

The “Rattle Can” Distraction

Instead of punishing unwanted behaviors like chewing, use a “rattle can” to distract your puppy. Fill an empty soda can with a few pennies, tape it shut, and shake it near (but not at) your puppy when they engage in undesirable behavior. This will startle them and redirect their attention. Follow up by offering a chew toy or playtime to reinforce positive behavior.

Praise, Play, and Rewards

Positive reinforcement is the key to successful crate training and overall puppy training. Always praise your puppy for good behavior and reward them with affection or treats. Avoid using punishment, as it can have negative effects. Consistent praise and rewards will help your puppy understand what behaviors are expected and encourage them to repeat them.

Crate training and housebreaking require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. With time and effort, your puppy will learn where and when to go potty and develop good crate habits. Remember to stay patient, and celebrate your puppy’s progress as they grow into a well-behaved companion