November 2025 Finland Crate Training A Puppy

crate training puppy helpful tips improve dogs behavior

November in Finland presents unique challenges and opportunities for crate training a puppy. The days are short, the weather is cold and often wet, and indoor activities become paramount. This makes a well-planned crate training strategy even more crucial for your puppy’s comfort and your own sanity.

Preparation is Key: Before November arrives, ensure you have the right crate. It should be appropriately sized for your puppy, allowing them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large they can designate one area for elimination. Line the crate with soft, washable bedding like blankets or fleece. Introduce the crate gradually. Don’t force your puppy inside; instead, entice them with treats and toys. Make the crate a positive, inviting space.

Early November: Association Building. Focus on associating the crate with positive experiences. Toss treats inside for your puppy to discover. Feed meals inside the crate with the door open initially, then gradually closing it for short periods. Use high-value treats like small pieces of cooked chicken or cheese. Offer these treats only when the puppy is in the crate to reinforce the desired behavior.

Mid-November: Extended Crate Time. As your puppy becomes more comfortable, start extending the time they spend in the crate. Begin with a few minutes and gradually increase the duration. During this phase, introduce crate games. These can be simple activities like hiding treats inside the crate or playing fetch with a toy that ends with the puppy going into the crate to retrieve it. Remember short, frequent sessions are more effective than long, drawn-out ones.

Potty Breaks and Consistency: Finland in November means fewer opportunities for quick potty breaks outside. Establish a consistent potty schedule and stick to it, even when the weather is unpleasant. Immediately after your puppy wakes up, after they eat, and after playtime, take them outside to eliminate. Reward them with praise and a treat when they go potty. Clean up accidents thoroughly to remove any lingering odors that might encourage repeat offenses.

Addressing Whining and Barking: Some whining or barking is normal during crate training. However, distinguish between attention-seeking behavior and genuine distress. If your puppy is whining or barking excessively, it could be due to needing to potty, feeling unwell, or being genuinely distressed. Take them outside to eliminate. If they don’t need to potty, ignore the whining as long as you are sure all their needs have been met. Only reward quiet behavior. Consistency is crucial; if you give in once, you’ll reinforce the whining.

Cold Weather Considerations: The cold Finnish weather requires extra care. Ensure the crate is not placed in a drafty area. You may need to add extra blankets to the crate for warmth. Consider a crate cover to help insulate the space and reduce drafts. When taking your puppy outside for potty breaks, consider a puppy coat or sweater to help them stay warm and comfortable.

Evening Routine: Establish a consistent evening routine to prepare your puppy for nighttime crating. This routine could include a final potty break, a light meal, and some quiet playtime. Put a chew toy or a Kong filled with frozen peanut butter in the crate to keep your puppy occupied and content. Place the crate in your bedroom so your puppy feels secure and can hear you.

Patience and Positive Reinforcement: Remember crate training takes time and patience. Avoid using the crate as punishment. Focus on creating a positive association with the crate through positive reinforcement. Celebrate small victories and be consistent with your training. With dedication and a tailored approach, your puppy will learn to view their crate as a safe and comfortable haven throughout the long Finnish winter.