Why Crate Training Is Great For Your Puppy
When I first got into dog training, crate training was a totally new concept to me. At the time, it had never been as big a thing in Australia as it is overseas.
At first, I wasn’t sure why you’d want to put your dog in what looked like a cage. But now? I honestly don’t know how anyone survives puppyhood without a crate used properly.
And that’s the key word - properly. Crate training is not about locking your puppy away. It’s about teaching them to see the crate as a safe, calm, comfortable place. Your puppy should never be panicked, stressed, or trying desperately to escape. With the right introduction, a crate becomes one of the most useful tools in raising a happy, well-adjusted dog.
Here’s why crate training is a game-changer for your puppy-raising adventure…
Crates Help With Toilet Training
Your puppy is essentially a baby animal with legs - they can walk, jump, chew everything in sight, and they definitely don’t have full bladder control.
They also don’t automatically know that toileting should only happen outside.
But here’s what they do know instinctively: dogs don’t like to toilet where they sleep or eat.
This natural instinct is why crates are such a powerful toilet training tool. By using the crate wisely, you can:
Prevent accidents inside. Puppy is less likely to toilet in the crate.
Build a routine. You can time toilet breaks and establish consistency.
Encourage bladder control. Within reason, puppies will learn to hold it until their scheduled break.
That means fewer accidents, faster training, and a cleaner home.
Crates Keep Your Puppy Safe
Imagine leaving a toddler to roam the house unsupervised. Sounds like chaos, right? Puppies aren't too different. They’re curious, mouthy, and love to explore with their teeth - including things like shoes, furniture, and even electric cords or batteries. Many house fires have been started by dogs chewing batteries, resulting in tragedy.
The golden rule of puppy raising is: supervision or confinement.
If you’re actively supervising, you can guide and reward good behaviour.
If you’re busy or need a break, confinement in the crate (or a safe pen) prevents your pup from practicing unwanted behaviours or getting hurt.
Used this way, the crate isn’t cruel - it’s safe, practical, and helps your puppy learn the house rules gradually.
Over time, as your puppy proves they can be trusted, they can earn more freedom.
Crates Provide Comfort and Calm
When introduced the right way, crates become your puppy’s den - a place where they can relax, nap, and feel secure. This is especially helpful for:
Teaching independence and preventing separation anxiety.
Helping your puppy settle during the day instead of constantly overstimulating themselves.
Giving them a safe spot during busy times (like when guests visit or during meal prep).
Many adult dogs continue to use their crate by choice, long after they no longer “need” it, because it feels like their personal safe haven.
Need Help With Puppy Training?
Crate training is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to raising a well-behaved, confident puppy.
My Puppy Priorities course takes you step-by-step through all the essentials - toilet training, crate training, socialisation, independence, problem prevention, and more.
👉 Start today and make puppyhood easier, safer, and way less stressful.
Here’s the top resources you need to create the most successful and rewarding relationship with your dog through training:
🐕 Get the free ebook that answers the question, ‘Why Does My Dog Do That?” and how you can change it - Get the Why Does My Dog Ebook HERE
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