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Crate Training Your Puppy in the UK, July 2025

Congratulations on your new puppy! Crate training is a valuable tool that can provide your furry friend with a safe haven and make housebreaking much easier. Starting in July 2025 in the UK, here’s a guide to successful crate training:

Choosing the Right Crate

Select a crate that’s appropriately sized. Your puppy should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but no larger. Too much space can encourage them to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other, defeating the purpose of house training. A crate divider can be useful if you’re buying a crate your puppy will grow into.

Making the Crate Appealing

Introduce the crate gradually and positively. Throw treats and toys inside to encourage your puppy to explore. Never force your puppy into the crate. Use a positive, encouraging tone of voice. Make it a comfortable and inviting space. Line the crate with soft bedding, a favorite blanket, or an old t-shirt that smells like you. You can also consider a calming pheromone diffuser, widely available in the UK, specifically designed for anxious dogs. This can help create a relaxing environment within the crate.

Feeding Time in the Crate

Start feeding your puppy their meals inside the crate. Place the food bowl just inside the entrance, gradually moving it further back as your puppy becomes more comfortable. This associates the crate with positive experiences like eating.

Short Crate Sessions

Begin with short crate sessions. Start with 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the time your puppy spends in the crate. Stay nearby while your puppy is in the crate. Talk to them in a soothing voice and offer praise. Don’t release them immediately if they start whining; wait for a brief moment of quiet before opening the door.

Nighttime Crate Training

Place the crate in your bedroom, especially during the initial stages. This provides comfort and reassurance to your puppy. Take your puppy outside for a toilet break immediately before bedtime. Ignore any whining unless you suspect they need to go outside to eliminate. Remember puppies typically need to relieve themselves every few hours, especially overnight, so anticipate a potential middle-of-the-night potty break.

Potty Breaks

Take your puppy outside for a toilet break immediately after they come out of the crate, especially first thing in the morning and after naps. Reward them with praise and a treat when they eliminate outside. Remember that UK weather in July can be unpredictable; always be prepared for rain!

Consistency is Key

Be consistent with your crate training routine. Avoid using the crate as punishment. This will create negative associations and make your puppy resistant to entering the crate. Patience is essential. Some puppies adjust quickly to crate training, while others may take longer. By following these guidelines and being patient, you can successfully crate train your puppy and provide them with a safe and comfortable den.