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New Puppy Tips

Crate Training & Surviving the First Night

How to crate train a puppy and get through the first night: setup, routines and what to do when they cry.

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Set up the crate

Big enough to stand and turn around, but not so big they can potty in one end. Use the divider. Put it near your bed for the first weeks.

Make it the best place in the house

Toss treats inside, feed meals in it, and give a stuffed chew toy only in the crate. Never use it as punishment.

The first night

  • Tire them out with play an hour before bed.
  • Last potty trip right before the crate.
  • A comfort toy and a crate cover can help them settle.
  • If they cry, take them out once, calmly, with no play, then right back in.
  • It usually gets easier after a few nights.

Build up slowly

Start with a few minutes while you're home, then stretch the time. Puppies shouldn't be crated for longer than they can hold their bladder.

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