When it comes to potty training your dog, one of the most popular methods is crate training. Crate training can be an extremely effective way to train your dog not to soil in the house, and can be a quick and relatively easy process if done correctly.

To come up with this guide, I read widely on resources available on best practices for dog crate training. The American Kennel Club(AKC’s) resources and several others were very helpful.

Without further delay, let’s start by defining what crate training is before explaining how you can get your dog to like the crate and make good use of it.

What is crate training?

Crate training is a process of teaching your dog to be comfortable in and accept spending time in a crate or kennel. This can be an effective way to potty train your dog, as well as provide them with a safe space when they need some time to themselves.

How to crate train:

Step 1 – Find the right crate:

The first step in crate training is to choose the right crate for your dog. There are a variety of different crate sizes and styles available on the market, so it is important to find one that will be comfortable for your dog and fit in well with your home.

Step 2 – Introduce your dog to the crate:

Once you have the perfect crate for your pup, it is time to introduce them to it. Start by placing the crate in a spot in your home where they spend a lot of time, such as in the living room or their bedroom. Put a soft blanket or towel inside the crate and leave the door open so they can come and go as they please. Allow them to explore the crate and get comfortable with it on their own.

Step 3 – Begin crate training:

Once your dog is comfortable with the crate, it is time to start the crate training process. Begin by putting them in the crate for short periods of time, such as 10 minutes, while you are home and able to supervise. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate until they are able to stay in there for 30 minutes or more.

Step 4 – Reward your dog for going into the crate:

Whenever your dog goes into the crate willingly, be sure to give them plenty of praise and a treat. This will help them to associate the crate with positive things and make the training process go more smoothly.

Step 5 – Check the time:

When you are first crate training your dog, it is important to keep an eye on the clock to make sure they are not in the crate for too long. Dogs can only hold their bladder for a certain amount of time, so be sure to take them out frequently at first and then gradually increase the intervals between bathroom breaks.

Step 6 – play crate games:

One way to make crate training more fun for your dog is to turn it into a game. Get them excited about going into the crate by playing fetch or tug-of-war near the opening. Once they go in, give them plenty of praise and a treat. With a little time and patience, your dog will be crate trained in no time!

Step 7- Make sure to remove the collar:

If your dog is crate trained with a command such as ‘kennel up’, make sure to remove their collar before they enter the crate. This will prevent them from getting stuck or tangled in the crate and will keep them safe while they are inside.

Step 8 – Let them out:

When it is time to let your dog out of the crate, do not make a big deal out of it. Simply open the door and allow them to come out on their own. If they have been in the crate for a long period of time, they may need to go to the bathroom, so be

Step 9 – Be patient:

Crate training can take some time, so be patient with your dog and yourself during the process. It may take a few days or weeks for your dog to get comfortable with the crate, but if you are consistent with the training, they will eventually catch on. Do not get discouraged if there are setbacks along the way, Just keep working at it and you will eventually succeed.

How to crate train a puppy:

Puppies are especially easy to crate train because they have a natural instinct to seek out a small, enclosed space to sleep in. Follow the same steps as above for crate training an adult dog, but keep the following in mind:

-Puppies have shorter attention spans than adult dogs, so keep the training sessions short and sweet.

-Puppies need to go to the bathroom more often than adult dogs, so take them out frequently to avoid accidents.

-Puppies have less self-control than adult dogs, so be sure to give them plenty of praise and rewards when they do well.

Below are some helpful steps to follow when crate training a puppy;

  1. Find a small crate of appropriate size for puppies. It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use one end as a bathroom.
  2. Put the crate in an area of the house where the family spends a lot of time, such as the living room or kitchen. This will help your puppy to feel like they are a part of the family and not isolated in a crate.
  3. Place a soft bed or blanket in the crate to make it more comfortable for your puppy.Puppies are more likely to be willing to go into the crate if there is something inside that they enjoy, such as a toy or treat.
  4. Start by putting your puppy in the crate for short periods of time, such as 10 minutes, while you are home. This will help them to get used to being in the crate without feeling anxious or stressed. Be sure to give your puppy plenty of praise and rewards when they go into the crate willingly. As your puppy gets more comfortable with being in the crate, you can begin to increase the amount of time they spend inside.
  5. If your puppy cries or whines while in the crate, do not let them out until they are quiet. This will only teach them that crying gets them what they want, which is to be let out of the crate.

How to crate train an older dog:

Older dogs are not as easy to train as puppies but it is still possible to crate train them. The first step is to find a crate that is the right size for your dog. It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use one end as a bathroom.

Place the crate in an area of the house where the family spends a lot of time, such as the living room or kitchen. This will help your dog to feel like they are a part of the family and not isolated in a crate.

If your dog is resistant to going into the crate, try putting a soft bed or blanket inside to make it more comfortable for them.

You may also want to put some of their favorite toys or treats inside to entice them into the crate.

Start by putting your dog in the crate for short periods of time, such as 10 minutes, while you are home.

This will help them to get used to being in the crate without feeling anxious or stressed. Be sure to give your dog plenty of praise and rewards when they go into the crate willingly. As your dog gets more comfortable with being in the crate, you can begin to increase the amount of time they spend inside.

If your dog cries or whines while in the crate, do not let them out until they are quiet. This will only teach them that crying gets them what they want, which is to be let out of the crate.

How to crate train an older dog:

Older dogs are not as easy to train as puppies but it is still possible to crate-train them. You may want to use a dog crate on a senior dog when you must leave them unsupervised for a period of time, such as when you go to work or run errands. The first step is to find a crate that is the right size for your dog.

It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so big that they can use one end as a bathroom. Place the crate in an area of the house where the family spends a lot of time, such as the living room or kitchen.

This will help your dog to feel like they are a part of the family and not isolated in a crate. If your dog is resistant to going into the crate, try putting a soft bed or blanket inside to make it more comfortable for them.

You may also want to put some of their favorite toys or treats inside to entice them into the crate. Start by putting your dog in the crate for short periods of time, such as 10 minutes, while you are home.

This will help them to get used to being in the crate without feeling anxious or stressed. Be sure to give your dog plenty of praise and rewards when they go into the crate willingly.

As your dog gets more comfortable with being in the crate, you can begin to increase the amount of time they spend inside. If your dog cries or whines while in the crate, do not let them out until they are quiet.

Crate training puppies vs adult vs senior dogs:

The key differences between crate training a puppy, an adult dog, and a senior dog are the age of the dog and their level of resistance to being crated.

Puppies are usually the easiest to train because they are not yet used to having freedom and will adapt quickly to being in a crate. Adult dogs may be more resistant to being crated because they are used to having more freedom, but it is still possible to crate train them.

Senior dogs may also be resistant to being crated, but it is still possible to crate-train them with patience and persistence. The main difference between crate training a puppy and an adult or senior dog is the age of the dog and their level of resistance to being crated.

How to crate train a rescue dog:

Rescue dogs may have underlying physiological or psychological issues that make crate training more difficult. For example, some dogs may have been abused or neglected and as a result, they may be mistrustful of people. Others may have never been in a crate before and may be resistant to being confined. It is important to take things slowly when crate training a rescue dog and to consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if you are having difficulty.

The first step is to introduce your rescue dog to the crate. Sit by the crate and call your dog over to you. If they are hesitant, try tossing a treat into the crate to entice them inside. Once your dog is inside the crate, give them plenty of praise and rewards.

Start by putting your dog in the crate for short periods of time, such as 10 minutes, while you are home. This will help them to get used to being in the crate without feeling anxious or stressed. Be sure to give your dog plenty of praise and rewards when they go into the crate willingly. As your dog gets more comfortable with being in the crate, you can begin to increase the amount of time they spend inside.

Close the door to the crate while your dog is inside only when they are calm and relaxed. If your dog becomes anxious or stressed, open the door to the crate and try again later.

Walk away or leave the room for a few minutes while your dog is in the crate to get them used to be alone. If they cry or bark, do not let them out until they are quiet.

Why crate-train a puppy?

Crate training a puppy has many benefits. It can help to potty train them, as dogs are typically reluctant to soil their sleeping area. It can also help to prevent destructive behavior, such as chewing on furniture or shoes, by confining them to a safe space when you cannot supervise them. Crate training can also help your puppy to feel more comfortable and secure in their environment, as they will have their own safe space to retreat to.

When should I start crate training my puppy?

You can start crate training your puppy as soon as they come home with you. The key is to take things slowly and to make the experience positive for them.

Why crate train an older dog – when will I need my dog to be trained?

Crate training an older dog has many of the same benefits as crate training a puppy. It can help to potty train them, prevent destructive behavior, and make them feel more comfortable and secure. Additionally, crate training can be useful if you need to confine your dog for short periods of time, such as when you are cleaning the house or cooking dinner.

How do I start crate training an older dog?

The key to crate training an older dog is to take things slowly and make the experience positive for them. Start by introducing them to the crate and letting them explore it at their own pace. Once they are comfortable with the crate, you can begin to confine them to it for short periods of time. Be sure to give them plenty of praise and rewards when they go into the crate willingly. As your dog gets more comfortable with being in the crate, you can begin to increase the amount of time they spend inside.

Close the door to the crate while your dog is inside only when they are calm and relaxed. If your dog becomes anxious or stressed, open the door to the crate and try again later.

Walk away or leave the room for a few minutes while your dog is in the crate to get them used to be alone. If they cry or bark, do not let them out until they are quiet.

How long will it take to crate train my dog?

Depending on your dog’s age, temperament, and past experiences, crate training can take days or weeks. There are two key points to keep in mind while crate training: The crate should always be associated with something pleasant and the process should occur gradually through small steps. Don’t try to progress too quickly.

It may take a shorter time to train puppies taking as few as 2 weeks to learn that a crate is a good place. If your dog has never been in a crate or has had negative experiences in the past, it may take longer to train them. In this case, it is important to go slowly and give them plenty of time to get used to the idea of being in a crate.

Older and senior dogs may take up to 3 months to crate train but this is not the rule. Some dogs – such as intelligent large-breed dogs may take a shorter time such as one month.

Some issues to be aware of when crate training:

Whining:

Dogs may whine when first placed in the crate because they want to be let out. This is normal behavior and will subside as they become more comfortable with the crate.

Separation anxiety:

Some dogs may experience separation anxiety when first placed in the crate. This is a normal reaction and will usually improve over time as they get used to being in the crate. However, if your dog seems to be getting worse, not better, after a week or two of crate training, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist.

Barking:

Dogs may bark when first placed in the crate because they want to be let out. This is normal behavior and will subside as they become more comfortable with the crate.

Pooping or peeing in the crate:

Dogs may poop or pee in the crate when first learning to use it. This is normal behavior and will improve as they get used to using the crate. If your dog continues to have accidents in the crate, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist.

Chewing on the crate:

Dogs may chew on the crate when first learning to use it. This is normal behavior and will improve as they get used to using the crate. If your dog continues to chew on the crate, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist.

Challenges training some dogs to use their crates:

Senior dogs:

Older dogs may be resistant to crate training because they are not used to being confined. They may also have health issues that make it difficult for them to hold their bladder or bowels for long periods of time. If you are having difficulty crate training an older dog, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist.

Puppies:

Some puppies that spend too much time in a crate can begin to develop issues like poor muscle tone, deformed limbs, lack of confidence and even barking, whining or pacing. In addition, they may start urinating and defecating inside the crate then lying in their own waste.

Common Crate training Mistakes You should avoid:

Crating your dog for too long:

If you leave your dog in the crate for too long, they may become anxious or stressed. It is important to give them plenty of breaks throughout the day to avoid this.

Not letting your dog out often enough:

If you do not let your dog out of the crate often enough, they may start to associate the crate with being in jail. It is important to give them plenty of opportunities to come out and explore.

Forcing your dog into the crate:

Never force your dog into the crate. This will only make them more resistant to going in. Instead, try luring them in with a treat or toy.

Making the crate too small:

If the crate is too small, your dog may feel claustrophobic and be resistant to going in. It is important to make sure the crate is big enough for them to stand up, turn around and lie down in comfortably.

Not making the crate comfortable:

If the crate is not comfortable, your dog may be resistant to going in. Make sure to put a soft bed or blanket in the crate for them to lie on.

Punishing your dog:

Never punish your dog for going in the crate. This will only make them more resistant to it. Instead, focus on rewarding them for going in.

Crating your dog when they are already upset:

If you crate your dog when they are already upset, they will only associate the crate with being in a bad mood. Instead, try to crate them when they are calm and relaxed.

Behaviors of a dog that’s crated trained well:

A dog that is crate-trained well should be able to stay in the crate for several hours at a time without having accidents. They should also be calm and relaxed when in the crate. If your dog is exhibiting these behaviors, they are likely well-crate trained.

How to crate train your puppy in 3 days:

Day 1:

Put your puppy in the crate for short periods of time (1-2 minutes) while they are awake and alert. Make sure to let them out often so they do not start to associate the crate with being in jail.

Day 2:

Increase the amount of time you leave your puppy in the crate while they are awake and alert. Again, make sure to let them out often so they do not start to associate the crate with being in jail.

Day 3:

Leave your puppy in the crate for longer periods of time while they are awake and alert. Make sure to let them out often so they do not start to associate the crate with being in jail.

Below are steps to use guidelines to have effective less-than-a-week training.

Step 1: Introduce your dog to the crate 

Put the crate in an area of the house where they spend a lot of time, such as the living room. Put a blanket or towel in the crate and let your dog sniff it. Do not try to force your dog into the crate.

Step 2: Feed your dog meals in the crate 

Put their food bowl in the crate and let them eat their meal inside. This will help them associate the crate with positive things.

Step 3: Get your dog used to being in the crate

Once they are comfortable eating their meals in the crate, start closing the door while they are eating. Open it as soon as they are done. Gradually increase the amount of time you leave them in the crate until they are comfortable being in there for long periods of time.

Step 4: Leave the house while your dog is in the crate

Once your dog is comfortable being in the crate for long periods of time, start leaving them in there while you leave the house. Start with short periods of time and gradually increase it. Make sure to give them a Kong toy or something similar to keep them occupied.

How to crate train a puppy fast

Using a lot of treats or rewards every time your puppy is in their crate is the best way to crate train a puppy fast. This will help them associate the crate with positive things. Try to have at least one treat for every minute they are in the crate.

To get your puppy to learn how to use and get comfortable using the crate, start with these steps:

  • Step 1: Put the crate in an area of the house where they spend lot of time, such as the living room
  • Step 2: Put their food bowl in the crate and let them eat their meal inside
  • Step 3: Once they are comfortable eating their meals in the crate, start closing the door while they are eating. Open it as soon as they are done
  • Step 4: Start leaving them in there while you leave the house for short periods of time. Give them a Kong toy or something similar to keep them occupied

Helpful dog crate training schedule:

For the first week, start by crate training your dog for short periods of time (15 minutes or less). Then, gradually increase the amount of time they are in the crate over the course of a few weeks. By the end of the month, they should be able to stay in the crate for several hours at a time without having accidents.

Here is a helpful schedule to follow:

Week 1:

15 minutes or less in the crate

Week 2:

30 minutes in the crate

Week 3:

45 minutes in the crate

Week 4:

1 hour in the crate

After the first month, you should be able to leave your dog in the crate for several hours at a time without any problems. If they do have an accident, go back to shorter periods of time and work your way up again.

Puppy crate training schedule – sample:

  • 7:00 – out for potty
  • 7:30 – Play time/training
  • 8:00 – in crate for 30 minutes
  • 8:30 – out for potty
  • 9:00 – Play time/training
  • 9:30 – in crate for 30 minutes
  • 10:00 – out for potty
  • 10:30 – Play time/training…and so on

Adult dog crate training schedule:

  • 7:00 – out for potty
  • 7:30 – Breakfast
  • 8:00 – in crate for 1 hour
  • 9:00 – out for potty
  • 9:30 – Play time/training
  • 10:30 – in crate for 1 hour…and so on

How to crate train a puppy that cries:

A dog or puppy that cries or whines a lot may find it difficult to stay in the crate for long periods of time. The key is to make sure they are well-exercised before being put in the crate. A tired dog is a good dog.

Another thing you can do is try putting something in the crate with them that has your scent on it, such as an old shirt. This will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious.

If your puppy is still having a lot of accidents in the crate, you may need to go back to shorter periods of time and work your way up again.

Here is a helpful schedule to follow:

Week 1:

15 minutes or less in the crate

Week 2:

30 minutes in the crate

Week 3:

45 minutes in the crate

Week 4:

1 hour in the crate

After the first month, you should be able to leave your dog in the crate for several hours at a time without any problems. If they do have an accident, go back to shorter periods of time and work your way up again.

How to crate train two dogs at once:

If you have two dogs that need to be crate trained, the best thing to do is to train them separately. Put one dog in the crate and give them plenty of treats and praise. Then, put the other dog in the crate and do the same thing.

You may need to increase the amount of time they are in the crate if they are having accidents. Start with shorter periods of time and work your way up.

Put the toys in the crate so that the dog outside will feel like being in the crate is fun. When one dog is out, put the other dog in so they can have a turn with the toys.

Try to crate train them at different times of day so they don’t get too used to being in the crate together.

How to crate train a puppy at night:

The best way to crate train a puppy at night is to put them in the crate right before you go to bed. This way, they won’t have to hold it all night and will be less likely to have an accident.

Give them a toy or something similar to keep them occupied. You may need to wake up once during the night to let them out to use the restroom.

Start with shorter periods of time and work your way up. If they have an accident, go back to shorter periods of time and work your way up again.

If your dog has separation anxiety or is particularly anxious at night, you may want to consult with a veterinarian or behaviorist to see if there are any other options.

Get the lights dimmed an hour before sleep so they know it’s time to wind down. If your puppy is still young, you may want to set an alarm for 2-3 hours after you go to bed so you can take them out to use the restroom.

How to crate train a dog that is resistant:

Some dogs may be resistant to being in the crate, especially if they have never been in one before. The best thing to do is to take it slow and give them plenty of treats and praise when they go in the crate.

You may need to start with shorter periods of time and work your way up. If they are having accidents, you may need to go back to shorter periods of time and work your way up again.

Try putting something in the crate with them that has your scent on it, such as an old shirt. This will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious.

Signs your dog is not successful in crate training:

If your dog is not successful in crate training, they may exhibit some of the following behaviors:

Pooping or peeing in the crate:

If your dog is pooping or peeing in the crate, they are not successful in crate training. This is likely because they are either not being let out often enough or the crate is too small.

Crying, barking or whining:

If your dog is crying, barking or whining in the crate, they are not successful in crate training. This is likely because they are either not being let out often enough or the crate is too small.

Trying to escape:

If your dog is trying to escape from the crate, they are not successful in crate training. This is likely because they are either not being let out often enough or the crate is too small.

Showing signs of stress:

If your dog is showing signs of stress while in the crate, they are not successful in crate training. This is likely because they are either not being let out often enough or the crate is too small.

If your dog is exhibiting any of these behaviors, they are not successful in crate training. If this is the case, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist to help you troubleshoot the problem.

How to crate train your dog when you are gone:

When crate training your dog when you are gone, it is important to make sure they are comfortable and relaxed in the crate. This may take some time and patience. Here are some tips:

Start with short periods of time:

When you first start crate training your dog when you are gone, start with short periods of time. This could be an hour or two. gradually increase the amount of time they are in the crate as they get more comfortable with it.

Leave them a treat:

When you leave your dog in the crate, leave them a treat. This will help them associate the crate with something positive.

Make sure they have a toy:

When you leave your dog in the crate, make sure they have a toy. This will help keep them occupied and help prevent boredom.

Don’t make a big deal out of it:

When you leave your dog in the crate, don’t make a big deal out of it. This will only make them more anxious.

If your dog is successful in crate training when you are gone, they should be able to stay in the crate for several hours at a time without having accidents. They should also be calm and relaxed when in the crate. If your dog is exhibiting these behaviors, they are likely well-crate trained.

FAQs

Is dog crate training important?

Dog crate training is important because it can help your dog be more comfortable in a small space. It can also help them to be less anxious and stressed when you are gone.

How long does it take to crate train a dog?

It depends on the individual dog. Some dogs may take a few days, while others may take weeks or even months.

What if my dog is not successful in crate training?

If your dog is not successful in crate training, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist to help you troubleshoot the problem.

How do I know if my dog is successfully crate trained?

If your dog is successfully crate trained, they should be able to stay in the crate for several hours at a time without having accidents. They should also be calm and relaxed when in the crate. If your dog is exhibiting these behaviors, they are likely well-crate trained.

What are some signs that my dog is not successfully crate trained?

Some signs that your dog is not successfully crate-trained include: crying, barking, whining, trying to escape, or showing signs of stress while in the crate. If your dog is exhibiting any of these behaviors, they are not successful in crate training. If this is the case, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist to help you troubleshoot the problem.

FAQs

How to make a dog crate look nice?

There are a few things you can do to make your dog crate look nice:

-Add a comfy bed: Adding a comfy bed to your dog crate will make it more inviting for your dog to stay in.

-Cover the crate: You can cover the crate with a blanket or sheet to make it more cozy.

-Decorate the crate: You can decorate the crate with your dog’s favorite toys or treats.

How often should I let my dog out of the crate?

It is important to let your dog out of the crate frequently, especially when they are first learning to use it. This will help them to get used to it and make sure they are comfortable. Once your dog is more comfortable with the crate, you can start to extend the amount of time they spend in it.

How do I know if my dog likes their crate?

There are a few signs that your dog likes their crate:

-They go into it willingly

-They seem relaxed and comfortable while in it

-They sleep in it

-They don’t try to escape from it

If your dog is displaying these behaviors, they likely like their crate. If they are not, consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist to help you troubleshoot the problem.

What should I do if my dog is afraid of the crate?

If your dog is afraid of the crate, there are a few things you can do to help them get used to it:

-Put their food in the crate: Put your dog’s food in the crate so they have to go in to get it.

-Toss a treat in the crate: Toss a treat in the crate so your dog has to go in to get it.

-Feed them in the crate: Feed your dog their meals in the crate so they get used to eating in it.

Should I get my dog a crate or a dog bed?

It depends on your individual dog. If your dog is comfortable in a small space, then a crate may be a good option. If they are not, then a dog bed may be a better option. Dog crates are also more suitable when traveling.

How big should my dog’s crate be?

Your dog’s crate should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down in. It should also be small enough so they feel cozy and safe.

My dog is having accidents in their crate. What should I do?

What is the best size crate for my dog?

The best size crate for your dog depends on their size and weight. You should consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist to help you determine the best size

My dog has accidents in their crate. What should I do?

If your dog has accidents in their crate, there are a few things you can do to help them:

-Take them out more frequently: Take your dog out of the crate more frequently so they have less accidents.

-Add bedding: Adding bedding to the crate will make it more comfortable for your dog and may help to reduce accidents.

-Use a Puppy Pad: You can put a puppy pad in the crate to help absorb accidents.

can dog sleep in crate with cone on?

Only let your dog to sleep with the cone on if the cone is big enough to comfortably allow your dog to sleep in their normal position. If the cone is too small, it may restrict your dog’s movement and cause them discomfort. You should also make sure that the crate is big enough for your dog to comfortably move around in.

where to put dog crate in house?

The best place to put your dog’s crate is in a spot where they can see you and where they won’t be disturbed. This will help them to feel comfortable and safe.

where to put dog crate in house at night?

I find my bedroom to be the best place to put a dog crate at night. This way, if my dog needs to go out in the middle of the night, I can easily take them out and put them back in without having to wake up my entire household.

How do I get my dog used to their crate?

The best way to get your dog used to their crate is to start with short periods of time and gradually increase the amount of time they spend in it. You should also make sure that the crate is comfortable and inviting for your dog. You can do this by adding bedding and toys to the crate.

Here are steps to get your dog to like the crate.

How do I pick the best dog crate for small dogs?

Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians are classified as small-breed dogs. They usually need a smaller crate than large-breed dogs.

Get them models that weigh under 30 pounds; you will need a crate that measures 18” x 18” or 18” x 24”. Small dogs weighing between 30 and 38 pounds should be in a roomy enough crate measuring 24″x24″ so they don’t feel too confined.

In order to pick the best brand for your small-breed dog, consider the following factors:

  • -Size of the crate: Make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably.
  • -Material of the crate: Small dogs can sometimes be escape artists, so it’s important to get a crate that is made out of durable material that they cannot chew through or push open.
  • -Design of the crate: Some crates have adivider panel that allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows. This can be helpful if you are not sure what size crate to get.

How do I pick the best dog crate for large dogs?

Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Saint Bernards are classified as large-breed dogs need a bigger crate than small-breed dogs. Get them models that weigh over 38 pounds; you will need a crate that measures 36” x 24” or 42” x 28”. Large dogs usually need a more spacious crate so they don’t feel too confined.

In order to pick the best brand for your large-breed dog, consider the following factors:

  • -Size of the crate: Make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down in comfortably.
  • -Material of the crate: Large dogs can be escape artists, so it’s important to get a crate that is made out of durable material that they cannot chew through or push open.
  • -Design of the crate: Some crates have a divider panel that allows you to adjust the size of the crate as your dog grows. This can be helpful if you are not sure what size crate to get.

Wrapping it up:

As discussed above, there are various ways to get your dog crate trained fast or at normal pace which may take up to 3 months. Whether your dog is a puppy, older or senior dog, start crate training by introducing the crate by placing it in a high-traffic area of your house, leaving the door open, and feeding your dog their meals near it so they associate good things with the crate.

Let your dog explore the crate on their own and do not force them inside. If your dog is older, you may have to start with shorter periods of time in the crate and gradually increase the amount of time. If accidents happen, clean the crate with an enzymatic cleaner and do not scold your dog. Try using a puppy pad, taking them out more frequently or adding bedding to make the crate more comfortable for your dog.