Q&A for How to Crate Train Your Dog or Puppy

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Question

Is it cruel to keep a puppy in a crate?

Rendy Schuchat
Certified Professional Dog Trainer
Rendy Schuchat is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and the Owner of the largest dog training facility, Anything Is Pawzible, based in Chicago, Illinois. With over 20 years of experience, Rendy specializes in positive dog training and behavior modification to help people build and strengthen their relationships with their dogs. She holds a BA in Psychology and Communications from the University of Iowa, an MA in Psychology from Roosevelt University, and a Certification in Dog Obedience Instruction from Animal Behavior Training and Associates. Rendy was voted one of the Best/Favorite Dog Trainers in Chicago by Chicagoland Tails Reader’s Choice Awards multiple times and was voted Chicago Magazine’s “Best Dog Whisperer” in 2015.

Rendy Schuchat

Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Expert Answer

Not at all! Crates are meant to be safe, positive place that keeps your puppy safe. In fact, crates can prevent your pup from chewing and eating things they aren't supposed to.

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Question

My 7-week-old puppy can hold on for hours, even though it should only be a couple of hours. I'm trying to pad train him. Any tips?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Pop him on the pad when he's most likely to go, which is when he wakes, after a meal, and before play. In addition, pop him on the pad every half an hour and be sure to praise him if he happens to perform. Be sure to keep a close eye on him, and if he shows signs of toileting in the wrong spot, scoop him up and put him straight onto the pad.

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Question

How do I know when my dog wants to go outside?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

A dog usually displays certain behaviors immediately prior to toileting. These include sniffing around and sidling up to objects. As soon as you spot these telltale signs, take him out. It can help to keep him on a leash so that you can keep a closer eye on him. Watch carefully, and you'll soon start to understand the subtle body language which indicates he needs to toilet.

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Question

What if a puppy poops in the crate?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Check that the crate isn't too big, as the idea is he should feel inhibited about soiling his den — if it's too big, then the puppy might feel there's enough room for both. If the crate is the correct size, then take him out of the crate regularly (every 30 minutes) and put him on the toilet spot, and reward him when he goes.

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Question

My puppy keeps on barking when he goes to the potty. What do I do?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

It's likely that he got confused and thinks you're praising the barking, rather than the toileting. When he barks, acknowledge it with a brief "Thank you," then ignore further barking. Use a cue word as he toilets, such as "Potty." (It's difficult to poop and bark so chose a moment when he's quiet to say "Potty.") Then call him to you, repeat the cue word and give a treat so he knows what its for.

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