Priya asks
How to stop my dog barking at the doorbellDog crate training: How to crate train your dog
How-to guide
Advice by Sue Ketland, Dog behaviour and training specialist
1
Call your dog and throw a treat inside the crate. As they move towards it, say “yes!”, toss them an extra treat, and praise them. Then entice them away from the crate and repeat this until you’re confident they’ll go straight in each time you throw a treat.
See more
Introduce the crate to your dog slowly. Make it as enticing as possible by using food to show them it’s a great place to be and turn it into a cosy ‘den’ with warm blankets.
2
Say "in your crate!” before you throw the treat in. After a few successful tries, say “in your crate!” and then pretend to throw a treat. When your dog goes in the crate, say “yes!” and give them the treat, like before.
See more
It’s important to leave the crate door open to allow you dog to come and go as they like. If they like it enough, they may start to sleep there.
3
Next, send your dog to their crate and serve their meals inside it. The first few times you do this, don’t shut them in to eat or they may get spooked.
See more
Initially, aim for just a few seconds of quiet between finishing their meal and letting your dog out. Gradually increase the wait before they’re let out. If they whine or bark, this likely means your dog is finding it too hard, so next time make your quiet time shorter so they succeed.
4
Once your dog happily eats in the crate on their own, you can start closing the door while they eat and let them out when they finish, before they get restless or whiny. Repeat this for every meal.
5
Each mealtime, encourage them to spend slightly longer in their crate by giving them a long-lasting chew or Kong to work at, and waiting slightly longer after they finish before letting them out again.
More information
When choosing a crate for your dog, make sure there's enough room for your dog to comfortably stand up, turn around and lie down. Don’t forget space for a water bowl. You might even want to consider getting a crate in the next size up for your growing dog!
What your dog might be feeling
If I’ve not been taught what my crate is, I might find being shut inside annoying or frustrating because I can’t play and spend time with you like I’m used to. Once you’ve shown me what it is, the crate is my safe place to chill out and relax!
Three things you can do today
Stock up on bedding
Comfort is key when it comes to crate training. It’s worth spending time making it a cosy, squishy and inviting space.
Set up their dining area
Serve meals to your dog in the crate and throw in tasty chews. Allowing your dog to relax with something they enjoy while in the crate will create positive associations.
Work out sleeping arrangements
If you’re hoping to use your crate as a safe area for your puppy to sleep, have it in your bedroom so they know you’re there for comfort.
Similar questions
Tell us what we should answer next
Ask our experts a questionHear from other humans
Carla
📍 Wales
- Dog breed: Corgi
- Dog age: 3 years
- Owner expertise:
I was struggling with my dog's anxiety, especially when we had to leave the house. Thanks to Woodgreen's advice, I've made some changes that have worked wonders. By sticking to a consistent routine, my dog knows what to expect each day, which has significantly reduced her anxiety.
Sarah
📍 Sussex
- Dog breed: Cavapoo
- Dog age: 1 years
- Owner expertise:
This advice really helped me and my new pup! I tried teaching recall without your guidance and struggled. Woodgreen's step-by-step dog training videos break each action down for you and I'm happy to say we finally made progress!
Help shape the future of Woodgreen's pet advice
Give us your feedback and we'll send you advice and tips on caring for your pets. We'd also love to send you updates about Woodgreen, including heart-warming pet stories and ways you can support us.
Still need help with your dog and want to speak to someone?
Please call our pet support line on 0300 303 9333 (7 days a week – 8.30am - 4pm)