07/25/2025
Want your pup to look this calm and relaxed in their crate?
Crate training is so important — but it’s often done in a way that makes dogs afraid of their crate. We don’t want that.
Your dog’s crate should be their den — a safe, cozy space they choose to go into.
So how do you get there?
🐾 Start with Positive Associations
Make the crate inviting: soft blankets, favorite toys, and treats tossed inside. Let your dog explore it freely with the door open.
Once they’re comfortable, you can begin slowly closing the door for short periods:
Close, then open.
Close for longer.
Lock it briefly, then unlock again.
Don’t just shut the door and walk away. That can feel scary and confusing.
When my puppy naps, I sit nearby. If he whines, I ignore it. Once he settles, I reward that calm behavior — or simply stay close without making a big deal. Movement helps too: walk away, come back, repeat.
🚫 Never open the crate while your dog is whining.
Wait for a moment of quiet so they learn calmness is what opens the door.
Crate training takes patience, but it’s so worth it when your dog sees their crate as a peaceful, safe space. 💛
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