Training your puppy to be comfortable with this situation is sometimes known as crate training. Crate training can be an effective training tool if used properly – or inhumane if not done properly.

 

 

Ideally, you should have a crate ready for your puppy as soon as you bring him home. Choose one that’s got plenty of room for the puppy to lie down and turn around in, but that isn’t too big – a puppy may actually feel uncomfortable if the crate is too large. Most puppies won’t go to the toilet in the crate – it’s a good way to help develop a dog’s bladder control as well.

 

 

You can cover the crate with a towel or blanket which helps to put a dog at ease. And you should put a couple of his favorite toys in there as well as a bowl of water if he will be in there for some time. Don’t put newspapers in there – unless you don’t mind them being shredded up.

 

 

When first introducing your puppy to the crate or cage, allow him to explore the new surroundings at his own pace. Let him sniff, wander in and out a few times and get comfortable with it. You should leave the door open at first and it’s also a good idea to put a treat in there for him.

 

 

The next step is to feed your puppy while he is in the crate – at first, with the door open and later closed. After that you can start leaving your puppy in the crate for a short time while you are around, and then gradually extend the time. Develop a routine so that after leaving the crate, your puppy is taken outside to go to the toilet.

 

 

Be sure to exercise your puppy before and after any time spent in the crate. And try to be firm when it comes to letting your puppy out – don’t give in and let him out just because he whines or barks as this will simply encourage him to try this behavior the next time.

 

 

The location of your puppy’s cage is also important. Dogs are pack animals and they instinctively want to be close to other members of the pack – in this case, you and your family. While you are first crate training your puppy, locate it in a busy place such as the living room or kitchen, so he is surrounded by people and activity.

 

 

Once you have successfully trained your puppy, an ideal place to locate the crate is in a bedroom. Your puppy will be more comfortable next to you – and you will also know if he needs to go out at night.

 

 

Successful crate training will also make it easier to transport your puppy by car – to the vet for example. You may want to choose a crate that is able to fit comfortably in the back of your car or van. Your puppy feels more secure – and it’s also safer in case of an accident.