Long ago, when dogs were still wild animals, they often slept in dens - shallow holes they dug in the ground hidden away in places where they felt safe from predators. These were small, dark places, just big enough to turn around in and to lie down comfortably. Even after centuries of selective breeding and living in people's homes, dogs still retain some of their ancient instincts. One of these instincts is the desire to have a den - a small, cosy place of their very own where they can feel safe and secure.

A crate is just a modern version of a den. In other words, it's a dog house within your house. Just as you enjoy having your own room where you can go for peace and privacy, your dog likes having his own room, too! As well as giving him a safe, cosy place to stay, crates can make training your dog a lot easier. Housebreaking goes much faster when you use a crate and destructive chewing becomes easier to control. Travelling is safer for both you and your dog when he's in a crate.

The Puppy's Arrival
The puppy must have positive associations regarding the crate. The crate needs to be comfortable for the dog. When the puppy first arrives, have the crate ready with a blanket creating a warm, inviting environment. Don’t ever force the puppy into the crate. This is new to the puppy. He needs to explore this new place. Be sure to leave the crate door open so the dog can come in and out as it pleases. It works well to use a small treat to lure the dog into the crate. When the dog first arrives do this several times so he begins to understand. Also when he is going in the crate use the command "Bed". Many other variations are acceptable. It is basically whatever you are comfortable with, but remember to be consistent.


The Puppy's First Night
The next big step is the first night. Play with the puppy until he's tired, make sure he has poo'd outside and place the comfortable crate (with pad and towels etc.) in the kitchen, or wherever your dogs room is going to be. Place the puppy into the crate (possibly with a safe toy), go to bed and turn out the lights as usual. If the puppy whines,  place your fingers in the grate of the crate and talk softly to the puppy until he falls asleep. You may lose a little sleep that night and possibly the next but do NOT open the door for the puppy for at least three hours. Do not get angry with the puppy or yell at him but, do not give in and let him out either. Usually he will fall asleep within an hour, less if he is tired. At eight weeks of age you cannot expect the puppy to go more than four hours without poo'ing so as soon as the puppy whines after waking up, have your clothes ready to hand (and a torch) to take the puppy outside. Dress yourself quickly before you open the crate, carry the puppy to the poo area and immediately, praise softly and gently for a job well done, bring him back in and without getting into a play session with him, return the puppy to his crate, turn the lights out and go back to sleep. If the puppy fusses for a while, talk softly and put your fingers in the grate of the crate. Don't blame or scold the puppy if he has an accident. It is your responsibility to get the puppy out BEFORE he has had a chance soil his den.

The Puppy's First Time Alone
At some point you have to go to work or go out somewhere and can't take the puppy. He's made it through his first day and night at his new home. He is familiar with his crate. Make sure the pup has been exercised and has pottied. It is helpful if he has played a bit and is tired. Lure him into the crate with a treat and your command "Bed"or physically place the puppy into the crate gently. Close the door and leave the house. No talking to him etc. He may whine a little. Don't stay away too long. An hour or two is best. If you have to go to work and have no other choice, then arrange to come home at lunch to feed, exercise and potty the puppy during your break or have someone else come in and do this for you. A puppy cannot be expected to go longer than four hours without a potty break and it is very hard to retrain a puppy that is used to soiling his crate.


Conclusion
With time the puppy will begin to enjoy his crate. This is his home. Once he gets adapted to the routine he will think nothing of going into the crate. He will stop whining at night and start pottying on a regular basis. When the puppy is tired or just wants to get away he will go to his crate. You have taught him that his crate is a comfortable environment.