Crate Training: Introduce the Crate the Right Way
Your dog’s crate should become their personal den—a place of peace, safety, and solitude. This only happens when the crate is introduced properly and positively. While it may take some effort upfront, it pays off long term by giving your puppy a comforting space and giving you peace of mind knowing they are safe when you can’t supervise them.
Addressing the Crate Stigma
Recently, some have criticized crating as unnatural or inhumane. However, dogs are den animals by nature. They instinctively seek out small, enclosed spaces to rest, raise young, and feel secure. When used responsibly, a crate supports this instinct. As with any tool, it can be misused—but in the hands of a responsible dog owner, it becomes a powerful part of positive puppy training.
Benefits of Crating
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House Training: Puppies typically won't soil their den, helping teach bladder control.
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Creating Boundaries: Prevents access to the whole house, reducing destructive behavior.
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Travel Safety: Makes transportation to the vet or groomer safer and less stressful.
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Comfort: Once trained, your puppy will likely enjoy spending time in their crate.
Selecting a Crate
We recommend a collapsible metal crate for ease of cleaning and visibility. Size is important:
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Petite Poodles: 30” crate
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Mini Poodles: 36” crate
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Medium Poodles: 42” crate
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Standard Poodles: 48” crate
If the crate is too large for your puppy, use a crate divider to limit space and prevent accidents. Adjust the divider as your puppy grows.
The Crate Training Process
Crate training should start early while your puppy is still learning routines and expectations. It can take days or weeks depending on age, personality, and past experiences. Key principles:
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The crate should always be associated with positive experiences.
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Training should progress in small, manageable steps.
Step 1: Introduce the Crate Slowly
Place the crate in a social area of your home where your family spends time. Add a blanket or toy inside. Let your puppy explore the crate at their own pace. Use treats or toys near and eventually inside the crate to encourage curiosity. Do not force the puppy inside or close the door yet.
Step 2: Feed Your Puppy in the Crate
Start feeding your puppy near the crate, then gradually move the bowl inside. This creates a positive association and leverages their instinct not to potty where they eat. Begin closing the door while they eat, then gradually leave the door closed for a few minutes longer each time. If whining begins, you've likely increased the time too quickly. Never let them out while whining.
Step 3: Lengthen Crating Periods
Once your puppy eats comfortably in the crate, begin closing the door for short periods while you’re in the room. Gradually step out of sight for increasing lengths of time. Introduce a cue word like "kennel" and offer a reward when your puppy enters the crate. Once your puppy stays calm in the crate for about 30 minutes, move to the next step.
Step 4: Crating When You Leave or at Night
Begin using the crate when leaving the house. Keep departures and arrivals low-key to avoid building anxiety. At night, crate your puppy in or near your bedroom so you can hear if they need a potty break. As your puppy matures and sleeps through the night, you can move the crate to another area.
"Typically, puppies can hold it for about half the number of hours of their age in weeks. A 6-week-old may need to go every 3 hours, an 8-week-old every 4 hours, and so on."
Crate training, when done with patience and positivity, gives your puppy a safe haven and sets them up for long-term success. As always, consistency, love, and time are the keys to great results!