How to crate train a dog or puppy: vet-approved steps

Updated 27 June 2025

Want to learn how to crate train a dog, or thinking of crate training a puppy? Stay right where you are - below is a vet-approved guide to crate training your dog. 

Find step-by-step instructions for crate training - from choosing the right crate to locking the door. Explore the benefits of crate training, along with vet-approved tips that’ll have your dog loving time in their new safe space.

Step 1: Pick the right crate for your dog

Whether you’re crate training puppy or an older dog, choose a crate that’s large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. 

If your dog prefers quiet, enclosed places then a plastic crate will be best as it adds a sense of privacy. Wire crates are sturdy and they’re better for dogs who like to see their surroundings, or need more ventilation. Don’t forget you can partially cover a wire crate with a blanket if they need more security or warmth. 

Soft-sided crates are a good option for travel because they’re more lightweight. Wooden crates are also available and can fit in with your home decor, but your dog may chew through it.

Older dogs may suffer from arthritis or other mobility issues, so make sure their crate is super comfy, easy to get in and out of, and is in an accessible place. 

Step 2: Make the crate comfortable and appealing for your dog

Now that you’ve chosen your crate, you need to teach your dog to love it. To start dog crate training, set up the crate while your pooch is out of the room. Place the crate in a familiar, draft-free and low-traffic area that’s away from direct sunlight. 

Load up the crate with blankets, toys, and maybe some orthopedic bedding to support your older dog’s joints. A crate filled with your pup’s favorite things will ensure your dog feels comfortable, and they'll start to view it as their safe space.

Step 3: Let them explore on their own and praise heavily

Let your dog explore the crate freely with the door to the crate open. Then, use positive reinforcement to encourage your dog to go into the crate more often. Treats such as peanut butter, dog food, toys, and praise will help create positive associations with the crate and encourage your dog to enter. Once your dog enters the crate, praise them heavily. Go at your dog’s pace and keep the crate training sessions short to start with.

Positive reinforcement is also especially important if you’re crate training a dog that’s older or from a rescue, as they may have negative feelings towards being inside a crate.

To keep up the positive reinforcement while you’re out, place treats in the crate when they aren’t looking so they associate the crate with positive things when you aren’t there too.

If you need a little extra help making your dog feel comfortable about their crate, reach out to a vet or a certified dog behaviorist.

Step 4: Close the door for short periods

Once your dog is comfortable going in and out of the crate, it’s time for the next step: closing the crate door. Give your dog a treat and start by closing the door for just a few seconds with your dog in the crate, and don’t lock it. Gradually extend the time and stick close by so they stay relaxed.

If your dog reacts negatively to the door being closed, such as whining, barking, or panting, open it immediately. Take a step back and practice with the door open for a little bit longer.

Step 5: Gradually extend crate time

The next step of the crate training process is to desensitize your dog to extended time in the crate. By now your dog should be pretty comfortable with the crate itself. Increase the time in the crate gradually with the door locked, starting with a few minutes and slowly increasing the duration. Practice leaving the room while your dog is in their crate to help them adjust to being alone. Again, take a step back if they seem distressed.

If you increased the length of time too quickly, your dog might react negatively to being inside the crate. So, always take small steps and increase the time slowly - starting with a much shorter time period. Even once they’re very comfortable with the crate, avoid leaving them in there for more than three hours at a time.

And remember, crate training isn’t just for the home. Practice crate training in the car by starting with short trips and gradually increasing the time spent in the crate during travel.

The benefits of crate training your dog

Still unsure about getting your dog crate-trained? There are multiple benefits to crate training your dog, so take a look below to get clued-up on why you may want to consider incorporating a crate training schedule:

• Crates provide a safe space. A crate offers an environment where your dog can relax without getting into mischief. It’s especially useful during unsupervised times or busy household moments when they might want a calm sanctuary to retreat to. They’re also a great to have before you welcome a pet sitter, reminding your dog they’re safe and in their happy place while you’re away.
• Crates can be helpful for potty training. Puppies instinctively avoid doing their business in their sleeping area, making crates an effective tool for potty training. 
• They can reduce separation anxiety. Gradual crate training can help puppies learn to enjoy their own company, reducing separation anxiety when left alone.
• Crates ease travel stress. Crate-trained dogs are often more comfortable during car rides and vet visits as the crate becomes a familiar and calming space wherever they are.

How to crate train a dog with separation anxiety

If your dog experiences separation anxiety, crate training your dog can help. Here are some tips on how to crate train an older dog or a puppy with anxiety:

• Add a personal touch. Place a blanket, a favorite toy or shirt with your scent into their crate to give them a familiar feeling.
• Create a calm atmosphere. Use anxiety toys, calming pheromone sprays, or relaxing background music to help keep your dog at ease.
• Take it slow. Go at an extra gentle pace with crate training, making sure every crate experience is positive. Lots of praise, treats, and patience will make all the difference and will build positive associations with alone time.
• Listen to your dog. If your dog starts barking or whining in the crate, it’s important to respond - otherwise, you may cause more issues in the long run. Slow down the training process, and do what you can to create a calm environment.
• Return calmly. Certified master dog trainer, Rob Kuty explains how to act when approaching your dog after their alone time:

“When a person has been away from their dog, especially if it’s been for hours, the human tends to feel bad and wants to make up the lost time. 

They immediately shower their dog with an excited voice, touch and treats as they enter back into their dog’s life. This communicates a drastic difference between being with you and being without you. 

It gives your dog the ability to realize being with you is so intense and exciting and being without you is the total opposite: boring, quiet and lonely.”

Make sure to seek help from a qualified behaviorist if you’re struggling to cope with your dog’s anxiety issues alone.

Useful resources

• Separation anxiety in dogs: how to calm an anxious dog
• Anxiety wraps for dogs: A gentle hug
• 6 dog anxiety vests to calm a nervous pooch
• 5 of the best dog toys for separation anxiety
• What can I give my dog for anxiety?
• Everything you need to know about cat separation anxiety

Meet our veterinary expert, Rebecca

This article has been checked by veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed MRCVS. Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!

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