Crate training often gets a bad rap, but it’s actually one of the most helpful things you can do for your new dog—especially when it’s done right. It’s not about confinement. It’s about creating a safe, cozy space that helps your pet feel secure, supported, and at ease.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to make crate training a positive experience for everyone—whether you’re working with a new puppy or an adult rescue dog who’s learning a whole new way of life.

Why Crate Training is Important

Crates provide structure, routine, and a sense of safety. When introduced properly, a crate becomes your dog’s personal den—a place to relax, nap, and decompress. Crate training can help with:

Potty training
Preventing destructive behavior
Travel safety
Vet visit prep
Creating a calm, predictable routine

It also teaches your dog how to self-soothe, which builds confidence and emotional resilience.

Choosing the Right Crate

Not all crates are created equal! Here are a few things to consider:

Size: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Too big, and it might encourage accidents. Too small, and it can be stressful.
Type: Wire crates are great for airflow and visibility. Plastic crates feel more den-like. Soft-sided crates are better for travel, not training.
Extras: A cozy blanket or crate pad, safe chew toys, and maybe even a cover for nighttime security.

How to Crate Train (Without the Drama)

Start Slow: Set aside daily time to practice. Begin by tossing training treats into the crate and letting your dog go in and out freely—no pressure, no closing doors.
Build Comfort Gradually: Once they’re comfortable entering the crate, start closing the door for a few seconds at a time. As they adjust, gradually increase the amount of time they spend inside. Let them out calmly, then repeat. Always reward calm behavior with praise or a higher-value treat at the end of the session.
Create Surprise Rewards: Occasionally toss a treat into the crate when your dog isn’t paying attention. That way, they learn that good things magically show up there.
Use Engaging Tools: Lick mats with a smear of safe, sugar-free peanut butter can be a great distraction and a fun way to build positive association—just double-check that the peanut butter is xylitol-free.
Keep Calm: Don’t celebrate when the crate opens. Exit should be boring so the crate stays relaxing. And as tempting as it might be, try not to let your dog out when they’re whining or crying. It’s tough, but letting them out during a meltdown teaches them that fussing gets results. Instead, wait for a few moments of calm before opening the door. With practice, patience, and lots of treats, your dog will learn that the crate is a safe, peaceful place to relax.

Avoid forcing them in, using the crate as punishment, or relying on it for long hours. Crate training should feel like comfort—not confinement.

How Long is Too Long?

A general rule of thumb: dogs can hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age, up to about 6–8 hours max for adults. Puppies will need more frequent breaks.

If you work a full day or sleep for 8 hours at night, here are some helpful strategies:

Midday breaks: Ask a friend, family member, or dog walker to stop by during the day.
Doggy daycare: A few days a week at daycare can provide much-needed socialization and bathroom breaks.
Nighttime routine: Make sure your dog gets a potty break right before bed and again first thing in the morning. Most adult dogs can make it overnight, especially with proper exercise and a predictable routine.

Crates are great for naps and downtime—not full workdays or extended isolation. Use them as a tool, not a crutch.

When Crating Isn’t the Right Fit

Some dogs experience true anxiety in a crate. If your dog panics, harms themselves, or seems overly stressed, reach out to a professional trainer or behaviorist. There are alternatives like playpens, dog-proofed rooms, or structured routines that offer the same benefits.

Adoptable Spotlight: Meet Chase!

Chase is a one-of-a-kind cattle dog–boxer mix with a heart as funky as his stride. Born around 12/13/2022, he came to Murci’s Mission during a medical crisis when his former family could no longer care for him. Chase has been with us for over a year, waiting for the right home—and he’s worth the wait.
He’s crate trained and finds comfort in quiet, predictable routines. He’s not looking to be the life of the party—he just wants a calm home with one or two patient humans and no other pets. When visitors come over, Chase prefers to hang out in his crate and skip the action, which makes him the perfect dog for someone who enjoys a peaceful lifestyle.
He doesn’t need daily adventures—just a soft spot to nap, some gentle companionship, and the occasional treat. If you’re looking for a low-key companion with lots of love to give, Chase might be your guy.

Interested? Start the adoption process today by clicking here!
If Chase he’s no longer listed on our adoption page, don’t worry—we’re happy to help match you with another crate-loving companion.

Coming Up Next: Potty Training Tips

Crate training and potty training go hand in hand. In our next blog, we’ll share our favorite tips to build a clean, stress-free routine—especially helpful for new adopters and fosters!

Crate Training 101: Building a Safe and Stress-Free Routine