WEEK 3: Crate Training & Calm Entry/Exit

WEEK 3: Crate Training & Calm Entry/Exit

This is where you set the tone for independence. Crates aren’t punishment-they’re a safe haven. But only if you make it that way. Too many owners either force the crate in panic or let their dog party on exit. Let’s avoid both.

Why Crates Work

Crates give your puppy emotional and physical security. In our breeding program, we gradually introduce surface changes-from soft fleece to pine shavings-long before they arrive home. A hard crate floor is familiar, not cruel. Crates prevent accidents, protect your stuff, and teach your puppy to settle when you’re not watching.

They also help train sphincter control (yep, poop and pee muscle strength). Think of it like a toddler learning to hold it in the car- difficult, but teachable. If you never challenge your puppy with structured crate time, don’t expect them to magically “hold it” later.

No Beds, Blankets, or Plush Toys

Let’s talk comfort-but from a training lens, not a human one. You might feel bad putting your puppy in a crate without a blanket or plush bed, but that guilt is yours-not theirs.

Why no bedding early on?

• Puppies will chew, shred, or eat blankets. Even the sweet ones. It’s instinct and boredom.
• Fabric holds heat and moisture-perfect for accidents and bacteria.
• Soft things trigger digging, nesting, and sometimes marking.
• Most importantly, bedding can mask accidents. You’ll miss early signs of GI upset or poor bladder control.

Puppies coming from our program are already used to hard surfaces. This isn’t punishment-it’s familiar.

If you feel the need to provide comfort, use a frozen teething toy or a puppy-safe rubber chew that can’t be destroyed or ingested.

Once your puppy is consistently dry, shows no interest in chewing bedding, and sleeps through the night-then you can try a low-profile crate pad or towel. But not before.

Crate training is about structure first. Comfort comes later, once they’ve earned it.

That said, mental stimulation matters – especially during the day.

You can safely offer a single rubber chew toy or a simple puzzle feeder (like a frozen Kong or slow-dispense treat ball) during daytime crate sessions to help prevent boredom or frustration. Choose toys that:

• Can’t be shredded or swallowed
• Don’t cause frantic chewing or overexcitement
• Are easy to sanitize and monitor

Avoid anything plush, stuffed, or squeaky inside the crate – these can overstimulate or turn into hazards.

Rule of thumb: If you wouldn’t leave it with a teething toddler unsupervised, don’t leave it with a puppy in a crate.

Crates Build Structure

Use the crate throughout the day:

• While showering
• During your lunch break
• While cooking dinner
• Any time you can’t watch them directly

The crate isn’t just for night. It’s their bedroom, not a punishment. Puppies who only use the crate at bedtime often develop separation issues. Make the crate part of daily life.

What NOT To Do

• No crating in bedrooms. Rolling over, getting up to pee, or even shifting in bed wakes your puppy.
• No “camping out” by the crate with your hand inside. That’s emotional manipulation disguised as comfort. You’re setting them up for panic when you disappear.
• No Beds, Blankets or even Plush Toys.

Let your puppy adapt to sleeping alone in a quiet, dim space with a sound machine. Trust the process.

Step-by-Step Crate Plan

1. No meals in the crate.

• No exceptions. Crate = quiet, not food time.

2. Create a boring bedtime setup.

• Dark, quiet room. No foot traffic. Use a white noise machine.

3. Final potty = twice with results.

• Don’t skip this. Take 10 minutes to make sure they’re empty.

4. Cut off food and water by 6 PM.

5. Handle whining correctly.

• Expect 1-2 hours of whining. Do not take them out unless 2 hours have passed.
• If they wake again later, and it’s been 2+ hours, take them out silently. No talking, no eye contact, no water, no play.

6. Wake them at 5-6 AM.

• Don’t let them decide when the day starts.

What If You Cave?

If you respond to whining, you’re training them to whine louder. They’re not panicking-they’re protesting.

By night 3, your puppy will understand the routine. But only if you stick to it. Don’t get in your own way.

Crate = Confidence Builder

Letting your dog roam 24/7 does not build confidence. Structure does. A puppy who earns freedom gradually becomes calm, confident, and respectful.

So put away the guilt. You’re not being mean. You’re being a leader. And your puppy will thank you.

Key Tools:

Large Breed Crate with divider  & Spring Latch- Amazon

Calming music or sound machine (Optional)

High-value chews or frozen Kongs.