Why games work
Many puppies are not afraid of the crate at first, but they quickly learn that a closed door means being left. Games change the meaning of the crate by linking it with food, play and choice. The goal is a puppy who trots in happily, not one who has to be lured or pushed.
Before you start
- Pick a crate that is big enough for your puppy to stand, turn and lie down comfortably.
- Use small, soft treats the puppy likes.
- Keep sessions short, a couple of minutes at a time, and end while the puppy is still keen.
- Never force the puppy in or use the crate as a punishment.
- Choose a calm time, not right after exciting play.
Game 1: In and out
Toss a treat into the open crate. When the puppy goes in to eat it, say a marker word such as “yes,” then let them walk back out on their own. Do not reward the exit. Repeat until the puppy runs in looking for the next treat. This teaches that going in is the puppy’s choice and leads to something good.
Game 2: Add a cue
Once the puppy enters eagerly, say a cue such as “crate” just as they start to go in. Over several sessions the word begins to predict the behavior. Use a release word like “free” so they know when it is okay to come out. Waiting for that release is a simple form of self-control; see impulse control training and games for dogs for more.
Game 3: Door touches
With the puppy inside eating, gently touch the door or close it for one second. Open it right away, say your release word and let them out. Over many repetitions, add a little time. If the puppy looks worried, go back to a shorter step.
Game 4: Meals in the crate
Feed regular meals inside the crate with the door open. When the puppy is relaxed, close the door during the meal and open it as soon as they finish, then build the time a little at a time.
Game 5: Treasure hunt
While the puppy is not watching, hide a few treats or a safe chew in the crate. Let them discover it. This builds the idea that the crate is full of surprises. It is also an easy way to entertain a puppy who is learning to be in the crate.
Game 6: Stuffed chew
Offer a stuffed, chewable toy made for dogs, like a rubber toy filled with part of the puppy’s meal, once they are comfortable in the crate. Supervise until you know the puppy will not chew off and swallow pieces. Ask your vet if you are unsure which toys are safe for your puppy.
Building duration
Add time slowly:
- A few seconds with the door closed while you sit beside the crate.
- A minute or two with you moving around.
- Short stretches with you out of the room.
Vary the length so the puppy does not predict exactly when it ends. For where crate time fits in a typical day, see the puppy training schedule.
What not to do
- Do not open the door the instant the puppy cries; wait for a pause if you are sure it is protest and not a need.
- Do not use the crate as a place of punishment.
- Do not leave a puppy crated for long stretches beyond what their age can manage.
- Do not rush: skipping steps is the most common reason puppies fuss.
Troubleshooting
If your puppy will not go in, make the crate more appealing by feeding next to it first. If they get upset when the door closes, go back to door touches. If barking or whining starts, check whether you moved too quickly and see crate training: stopping whining and barking. If crying at night is the main problem, read night training a puppy.