A crate is a very useful tool for training your new puppy. A puppy is easy to train when he is young. When he first gets them between 8 and 12 weeks of age, that’s usually the best time to start. If you had a good breeder, you may already be halfway there!
Get a puppy training crate that is the appropriate size for your dog as an adult. There are dividers available that you can use to keep the area the puppy can use to start small. Depending on the dog, you may be able to get him a soft bed or blanket to use, or if he has an aggressive chewer, you may need to skip it! Newspaper or potty training pads can also be used for the puppy, but often the puppy will only see these things as shredding items! Use trial and error to determine which one is best for your pup, it won’t hurt to have only the crate tray in his crate.
When you are not actively involved with your puppy, put him in the crate. Put them on after they’ve eliminated and played so they’re tired. They will then fall asleep, when they wake up take them outside immediately, don’t play with them until they have relieved themselves. Then play until they get tired again, if they still don’t look tired take them inside for some more play but watch them and when they want to lie down put them back in the cage.
They should go out at least every 4 hours. Don’t scold them if they have an accident, it’s your fault for not taking them outside when they need to go, you wouldn’t punish a baby for pottying her, you shouldn’t punish a puppy either. You will meet their needs if you pay close attention. The goal is to prevent accidents by removing them frequently. If you are diligent about this, most puppies will learn quickly, however they are not physically capable of holding back until around 6 or 7 months. Gradually increase the time between outside visits. And also gradually let the puppy play longer before returning him to his crate. If you always put him back in the box when he’s tired and take him out immediately when he wakes up, it will be an easy task.
Caution: Simply leaving the puppy in his crate until he potty is useless, you’ll just be teaching him that it’s okay to potty in the crate! Taking the puppy outside when he wakes up is crucial, be aware of the puppy’s condition, if necessary wake him up and take him outside before he has a chance to dirty his crate.
Crate training your puppy can be accomplished if you are committed and diligent during this period. You’ll have a trustworthy, house-trained dog before you know it. Putting the effort now in any training activity it’s key. This early period will shape your dog’s behavior throughout his life. Take advantage of the early learning period and teach your dog what you want him to know now!