Crate training

Crate training a puppy: a calm step-by-step guide

A crate should feel like your puppy's own quiet den, not a place they get sent. The secret is going slowly and making every step worth it for them.

Chihuahua puppy sleeping on a soft blanket

The short version: pick a crate that fits, let your puppy walk in on their own for treats, build up time with the door closed in small steps, and never use the crate as punishment.

1. Pick the right size

Your puppy should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably.¹ Too much space can backfire: some puppies use one end as a toilet and sleep in the other.¹ A crate sized for the adult dog with a divider can grow with your puppy.¹

2. Introduce it step by step

STEP 1 · DOOR OPENSit next to the crate and toss treats inside whenever your puppy comes close. Don't close the door yet.¹
STEP 2 · TREASURE HUNTHide a few treats inside and let your puppy discover them on their own.¹
STEP 3 · STAYING INSIDEWhile your puppy is in the crate, keep rewarding every few seconds (AKC suggests every 5–10 seconds).¹
STEP 4 · DOOR CLOSED, BRIEFLYClose the door for a short moment, reward, open again. Slowly build up the time.¹
STEP 5 · SOMETHING TO DOGive a food-stuffed chew toy (frozen lasts longer) every time your puppy goes in.¹

Go at your puppy's pace and never push them in.¹

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3. How long is too long?

Never crate your puppy longer than they can hold their bladder or stay comfortable.¹ As a rough guide for bladder control, see our potty training schedule (age in months + 1 hours is a common maximum, not a goal).

4. What whining usually means

Whining within minutes: often a sign of stress. Go back a step and make the introduction slower.¹
Whining after a while: more likely boredom, hunger or a potty need.¹ Take them out for a quick, boring potty break.

5. The one rule

Never use the crate as punishment. It teaches your puppy that the crate is a bad place.¹

About bedding: AKC suggests waiting with beds and blankets until your puppy reliably has no accidents in the crate.¹ If your puppy came with a small blanket that smells like their litter, watch how they use it.

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Want the full plan? The First 30 Days with Your Puppy includes potty and crate trackers and 30 small daily training missions.

¹ Source: American Kennel Club, Crate Training a Puppy. Day One Puppy is not affiliated with or endorsed by the AKC. This article is general guidance and does not replace advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.