Puppy Crate Training Vet’s Step by Step Success Plan 2025 🐶🐾

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Done right, crate training is one of the most powerful tools in puppy parenting. It builds confidence, creates structure, aids toilet training, and gives your pup a safe space to call their own.

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston. Whether you’re starting from scratch or trying to fix a fear, here’s a stepbystep, vet-approved crate training plan that works.

🏠 Why Use a Crate?

• 🛏️ Gives your puppy a place to rest undisturbed
• 🚽 Prevents accidents and chewing when unsupervised
• 🚗 Makes travel and vet visits less stressful
• 🧠 Teaches calm independence and impulse control

🧰 What You Need

• 🪵 A crate that’s big enough for your pup to stand, turn, and lie down
• 🧸 Soft, washable bedding (optional at first for chewers)
• 🦴 Chews or frozen enrichment toys
• 🎁 Treats and your ready

📅 StepbyStep Crate Training Plan

Step 1: Introduce the Crate (Days 1–2)

• Leave the crate open in a quiet corner
• Throw treats or toys inside—no pressure to enter
• Feed meals at the entrance or just inside

Step 2: Build Positive Associations (Days 2–4)

• Feed full meals in the crate with the door open
• Use frozen Kongs or chew toys during rest time
• Close the door for short periods while you're nearby

Step 3: Add Duration + Distance (Days 4–7)

• Close the crate door for 1–5 minutes after meals or play
• Leave the room briefly and return calmly
• Increase time gradually—always return before distress

Step 4: Create Routine Use (Week 2+)

• Nap times and bedtime = crate time
• Use a command like “crate” or “bed”
• Reward calm behavior before and after

✅ Tips for Success

• 📦 Cover the crate with a light blanket if your pup settles better in the dark
• 🎧 Use white noise or calming music
• 🐶 Don’t only use the crate when you leave—mix in calm daytime use

🚫 What to Avoid

• ❌ Using the crate for punishment
• ❌ Letting your puppy out when they cry (unless it’s potty time)
• ❌ Leaving your puppy in the crate too long—use age-appropriate limits

📊 How Long Can Puppies Stay in the Crate?

Overnight sleep time can be longer if toilet breaks are given as needed.

🎁 Products to Support Crate Training

• Explorer Harness – Use for crate toilet trips without pulling
• Bungee Lead – Manage early morning crate exits calmly
• Dual Pocket Treat Dispenser – Reward crate entry quietly and easily

💬 What Puppy Parents Say

“Our pup hated the crate until we slowed down and used frozen treats—now he goes in on his own.” – Jamie & Luna

“Having a plan made all the difference. It’s her safe space now, not a punishment.” – Malik & Pepper

👩⚕️ Want a Personalized Crate Training Plan?

Send your puppy’s age, sleep patterns, and current behavior to Ask A Vet and we’ll send a stepbystep crate routine built just for you.

Final Thoughts

Crate training isn’t about confinement—it’s about comfort. Start early, move slowly, and always end on a positive note. Done right, a crate becomes a safe haven, not a jail cell.