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Crate and Potty Training

This is designed to help give new puppy owners ideas and options on how to confine their puppy in various situations as well as options on crate training and potty training. 

X-PEN

 

It’s crucial that your puppy has a safe place to go for short periods of time throughout the day. Although a crate is a wonderfully safe place, it shouldn't be used excessively for several reasons. Puppies need to play and have some wiggle room. If you’re putting your puppy into a crate 10 times a day then he is going to begin to hate the crate. Throughout the day when you or your puppy needs a break, the x-pen is a great place to put them where they can still play, drink and have wiggle room. Puppies need to be watched constantly and the x-pen is also a good place to put them when they can't be fully watched and still be kept safe and out of trouble.

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Set it up in an area that has water resistant, washable flooring. You can put a crate inside of the x-pen or if you don’t want a crate in the pen, I suggest an elevated bed. Clip-on dishes are good to avoid spills.  Be sure to also have some fun toys!

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It’s important that you take your puppy out to potty prior to putting them in the x-pen. Your puppy may complain at first when you start putting them in the x-pen.When you put them in, make sure to offer an enticing treat or a good chew such as a Bully Stick.  Once you walk away, if they cry, you must ignore them  As soon as they are quiet reward them with a treat and walk away again. It's good to walk by often and reward them for sitting quietly. If they nap and wake up, be sure to take them outside as soon as they wake. If they're jumping, try not to pick them up until they sit.  It's best to pick your puppy up and carry them outside to avoid accidents between the pen and door.

 

 

 

CRATE

 

The crate should be used at night, for sleeping and potty training. 

When choosing a crate, be sure your puppy only has enough room to lay down, stand and turn around. This may mean buying several sizes of plastic crates or moving the divider as needed in a wire crate, depending on the type of crate you have chosen. Do not put food or water dishes in the crate. We suggest waiting to add a plush bed until your puppy is through the chewing stage and is better about potty training. We use blankets or towels, easily washable. Try to put the crate in a place that is as close to the outside door as possible.  When a puppy is let out of their crate they have to go almost immediately. 

We work hard to introduce our puppies to crates during their 8 weeks here, starting them at 3 weeks old. Your puppy has been sleeping in a crate with the door open, had rest time and has spent time during the day and time during the night with the door closed. We have done all of these things to help you create a smooth transition to crate training.

Even though we have started crate training, we suggest easing in to the crate training in their new home. By allowing your puppy a slower transition, it helps reduce so much stress at one time and will result in less crying and concern when you begin crate training. For those first few nights, I would have his crate in his x-pen with the door securely fastened open (like zip-tied to the x-pen) or the door removed. Either have a doggie door or a litterbox accessible to the puppy. Have a few toys and a secure water dish, as discussed in the x-pen set ups above. This is a familiar setting for your puppy. Before bed, take him out for a good walk and be sure he’s had time to eliminate. Put him in his x-pen and sit with him for cuddles and then leave him with a Kong, Greenie or Bully Stick. Be sure he has his blankie (as provided in your puppy packet) placed inside the crate. Walk away and go to bed, understanding that there is likely to be a little fussing. 

Mastering Crate Training for Your Puppies

Crate training is a crucial skill for any puppy owner. It can make a world of difference in the way your puppy adapts to your home. Proper crate training not only keeps your puppy safe but also offers them a secure space to relax. By mastering crate training, you set the foundation for good behavior in your home. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about crate training your puppy.

Crate Training Puppies Guide

Before diving into the specifics, let’s discuss what exactly crate training is. At its core, crate training is the practice of getting your puppy to accept a crate as a safe space. This is not just about keeping your puppy contained but providing a cozy den where they can feel secure. Puppies have a natural instinct to seek small, enclosed spaces, so a crate can become a place of comfort.

Benefits of Crate Training

Crate training comes with many advantages. Here are some essential benefits:

 

  1. House Training: A crate can significantly aid in house training. Puppies do not want to soil their sleeping area. Utilizing a crate can teach them bladder control.

     

  2. Safety: When you can't supervise your puppy, the crate keeps them safe. It prevents them from chewing on dangerous items or getting into hazardous situations.

     

  3. Travel: Crate training makes traveling with your puppy easier. A crate provides a familiar space during trips, reducing anxiety.

     

  4. Reduced Separation Anxiety: A crate can help your puppy feel secure when you are not home. They learn that being alone is not something to fear.

     

  5. Prevention of Behavior Issues: Crating can mitigate destructive behaviors. When left loose, puppies may chew on furniture or get into mischief. 

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Setting Up the Crate

 

Preparation is key to successful crate training. Here are steps to set up the crate:

 

  • Choose the Right Size: Your puppy’s crate should be big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If it’s too big, they may use one corner as a bathroom.

     

  • Make It Inviting: Use comfortable bedding, toys, and perhaps a piece of clothing with your scent to make the crate inviting.

     

  • Location Matters: Place the crate in a quiet area of your home where your puppy can feel safe and secure. A corner of the living room or a cozy den is ideal.

     

  • Introduce in Stages: When first introducing your puppy to the crate, leave the door open and encourage them to explore. Use treats to create a positive association.

     

What is the 10 Minute Rule for Puppies?

 

When crate training puppies, the "10-minute rule" is essential. This rule suggests that for each month of your puppy's age, they should be able to hold their bladder for 10 minutes. For example, if you have a two-month-old puppy, they should be able to stay in the crate for 20 minutes without needing to relieve themselves. 

 

This rule is designed to help you gauge how long your puppy can remain in a crate before needing a break. As your puppy grows older, they will require longer intervals. 

 

The Crate Training Process

 

Once your puppy is comfortable with the crate, it’s time to begin the training process. Here are practical steps to follow:

 

  1. Short Sessions: Start by placing your puppy in the crate for brief periods while you are home. Gradually increase the time as they grow more comfortable.

     

  2. Positive Reinforcement: Use praise and treats when your puppy enters the crate willingly. This positive reinforcement will help create a strong association between the crate and good things.

     

  3. Feeding in the Crate: Begin feeding your puppy in the crate to foster a positive relationship with it. This can help them look at the crate as a place where good things happen.

     

  4. Practice Leaving the Room: Once your puppy is comfortable being in the crate with the door closed, practice leaving the room for short durations. This step helps them get used to being alone while in their crate.

     

  5. Night Time Routine: Make crate training part of your puppy’s nightly routine. A consistent before-bed process can signal to your puppy that it’s time to relax.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

 

Not all puppies take to crate training effortlessly. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

 

  • Whining: If your puppy whines, check if they need to go outside. If not, avoid letting them out immediately. This reinforces the whining behavior.

     

  • Reluctance to Enter: If your puppy is hesitant to enter, make the crate more enticing. Use toys or treats to lure them in. 

     

  • Chewing the Crate: Some puppies may chew on the crate itself. Ensure they have plenty of chew toys and try to redirect this behavior.

     

  • Accidents in the Crate: If accidents happen, it may be a sign that the crate size is too big or that your puppy needs more frequent breaks.

     

Maintaining Success

 

Once your puppy is crate-trained, it’s essential to maintain the positive behaviors learned during training. Here are ways to do that:

 

  1. Routine: Maintain a consistent schedule for letting your puppy out of the crate for potty breaks and exercise.

     

  2. Limit Crate Time: Avoid crating your puppy for extended periods. They are social animals and need interaction and play.

     

  3. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation: Engaging your puppy with toys, walks, and socialization will keep them healthy and enjoy their crate time.

     

  4. Continuously Reinforce: Even after your puppy is trained, regularly reward them for entering the crate voluntarily. 

     

  5. Adapt as Needed: As your puppy grows, adjust the crate's size if necessary and always make it a comfortable space.

     

Enjoy the Benefits of a Well-Trained Puppy

 

Mastering crate training opens the door to a well-behaved puppy. It teaches them discipline and provides a space where they feel secure. With persistence and positivity, you can establish a successful crate training routine that benefits both you and your puppy. 

 

Now that you are equipped with knowledge on crate training puppies, get started on creating a happy, safe environment for your furry friend. 

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