August 2025 Canada Crate Training A Puppy

puppy crate training tips tricks train dream dog

August 2025 in Canada is a great time to start crate training a puppy! The weather is generally pleasant across much of the country, allowing for ample outdoor potty breaks and play sessions, which are vital for successful crate training. Here’s a guide to crate training your puppy during this time of year:

Choosing the Right Crate

Select a crate that’s appropriately sized. It should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large they can use one area as a toilet. A crate that’s too big can hinder the training process. Consider a crate with a divider if you’re starting with a small puppy and intend to use the same crate as they grow.

Making the Crate a Positive Place

The key to successful crate training is associating the crate with positive experiences.

Introduce the Crate Slowly: Leave the crate door open and let your puppy explore it at their own pace. Never force your puppy inside.
Make it Comfortable: Line the crate with soft bedding, like a blanket or a dog bed. Add some of your puppy’s favorite toys.
Positive Association: Toss treats or a favorite toy into the crate to encourage your puppy to go inside. Praise them enthusiastically when they do.
Mealtime in the Crate: Feed your puppy their meals inside the crate. This creates a strong positive association with the crate.

Gradual Introduction and Training Schedule

Once your puppy is comfortable entering the crate, you can begin to gradually increase the amount of time they spend inside.

Short Periods: Start with very short periods, such as 5-10 minutes. Close the door and stay nearby. Talk to your puppy in a reassuring voice.
Gradually Increase Time: Gradually increase the time your puppy spends in the crate as they become more comfortable. Add a few minutes each day.
Vary Time Periods: Introduce variable time periods. Sometimes keep them in for 10 minutes, other times for 30. This prevents them from anticipating when they’ll be let out and getting anxious.
Potty Breaks: Ensure frequent potty breaks, especially after waking up, eating, and playing. Take your puppy outside immediately after taking them out of the crate. Praise and reward them when they eliminate outside.

Addressing Whining and Crying

It’s common for puppies to whine or cry when they’re in the crate, especially at first. It’s important to differentiate between attention-seeking behavior and a genuine need to go outside.

Ignore Attention-Seeking Whining: If you’ve taken your puppy outside recently and you’re sure they don’t need to eliminate, ignore the whining. Only let them out when they’re quiet.
Address Legitimate Needs: If your puppy is consistently whining and it’s been a while since their last potty break, take them outside immediately. Clean any accidents thoroughly.
Don’t Give In: Giving in to whining will only reinforce the behavior. Be consistent with your training.

Consistency and Patience

Crate training requires consistency and patience. Avoid using the crate as punishment. Keep training sessions short and positive. Remember that every puppy learns at their own pace. With consistent effort, your puppy will learn to love their crate and see it as a safe and comfortable den.