Back to Obedience Dog Training

Crate Training

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


A young dog receiving puppy crate training in Tampa, FL from DTE.

Dog Training Elite

Puppy Crate Training in Tampa, FL

Crate training for puppies helps your dog develop a sense of security. Crates appeal to a dog’s natural instincts, offering them a safe, familiar area to relax and retreat when needed.

Crate training also plays a key role in housebreaking. Once a puppy learns that their crate is a safe place, or 'den', they will instinctively want to keep this area clean. During house breaking, keeping your puppy inside the crate dramatically reduces accidents. Keep eyes and ears open to your puppy's bathroom signals and quickly bring him or her outside. This will help your puppy learn that outside is the place to go, not inside.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer expert puppy crate training in Tampa, FL to help guide you through the process. Our trainers work with you to help your puppy become comfortable with their crate and use it as a positive training tool.

See Training Packages

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

Crate Training Tips

Crate training is a valuable tool when done correctly, but it's important to follow best practices to ensure your dog remains comfortable and secure. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of crate training.

Avoid leaving your dog in the crate for more than two hours at a time to prevent discomfort and ensure they don’t associate the crate with confinement.
If you’re away for long periods, consider leaving your puppy with a friend or in a safe area where they have more room to move.
Choose a crate that fits your puppy’s size, or use an adjustable crate to accommodate their growth and ensure ongoing comfort.
Leave the crate door open when possible so your dog can enter and exit freely, helping them feel more at ease with the space.
Add a soft bed, blankets, and toys to make the crate a cozy, inviting space your puppy will enjoy spending time in.
Never use the crate for punishment—this can create fear and negative associations with the crate instead of security.
A puppy looking up at its owner during crate training in Tampa, FL with DTE.

Why Should You Use Crate Training?

Read More
Read Less

Crate training can also improve other aspects of your pet's life. A dog that is used to a crate will feel more comfortable when traveling and have a safe place to retreat during thunderstorms or noisy guests. At Dog Training Elite, we believe that crate training can enhance the lives of both dog and owner when done properly.

Additional benefits of crate training include:

  • General Safety: Having your pup in their crate allows them to be alone while you are unable to watch them. Whether you are busy at home or out of the house, a crate trained puppy can give you peace of mind that your pup is safe and secure.
  • Effective Evacuation: In emergencies, crate training can save your dog’s life as a quick, low-stress way to evacuate.
  • Calmer Vet Visits: Should your pup be required to stay overnight at the vet’s, they will experience less stress and put up little resistance in their cage if they have been crate trained.

Crate training young, starting at about 8 weeks, is the best option for most pups and their owners. Keep in mind, though, that puppies under the age of 6 months should not be confined to their crate for more than three or four hours at a time. Allowing them to stay in the crate for too long will lead to a messy space, as young puppies are unable to control their bladders or bowels for extended periods. This also applies to adult dogs who are being housetrained.

Additional Obedience Training Info

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Classical Conditioning Dog Training in Tampa, FL
Classical Conditioning Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training in Tampa, FL
Positive Reinforcement Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Puppy Obedience Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Puppy Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Off Leash Dog Training in Tampa, FL. Dog Training Elite
Off Leash Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Dog Agility Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Agility Through Basic Obedience Training
Two well-behaved puppies after training in their crates.

Start Crate Training Today


Read More
Read Less

Crate training helps puppies feel secure by providing them with a safe and comfortable space of their own. It also speeds up housebreaking, reduces accidents, and prepares your puppy for situations like vet visits or travel. When done right, crate training fosters a sense of security and builds healthy routines.

At Dog Training Elite in Tampa, we’re here to support you and your puppy throughout the crate training process. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a well-trained and happy pup!

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

Photo Gallery

See An Elite Dog in Action

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Olivia Meitzner
    May. 10, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa has completely exceeded my expectations! The one-on-one training sessions are outstanding-personalized, effective, and tailored to both you and your dog’s needs. I saw progress quickly, and the trainers are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in your success. The group training classes are equally amazing. They provide a great opportunity for socialization and reinforcing skills in a more distracting environment, which really helps solidify the training. What truly sets them apart, though, is their ongoing support. Even outside of scheduled sessions, the team is always willing to answer questions and offer guidance. It’s clear that they care about you and your dog’s journey every step of the way. I have a very loving but very stubborn Corgi who I am now so so proud of thanks to this team! Highly recommend to anyone looking for lasting results and a team that truly stands behind their work!
  • Bhavna Kumar
    May. 4, 2025
    Highly recommend Elite Dog Training! They worked wonders with my dog. Teaching obedience skills, they were patient knowledgeable and compassionate - their approach is truly effective. My dog is now well-behaved and happy service dog. Thanks to their expertise. Five stars isn't enough - I'd give them ten stars if I could!
  • David David
    Mar. 29, 2025
    When i brought home my first Doberman I was working all the time and didn’t really do the training required to unlock all the potential of this breed. Jetta was a great family dog but this time I wanted to do things different. I contacted Dog Training Elite, talked to Tonya and purchased the Puppy Platinum Package. I knew if i was going to start using an E Collar I wanted it done professionally. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive about using the E Collar and it really takes some getting used to. I started training Kara as early as possible and Tonya ensured me that it would make our bond stronger and it did. Kara is a calm, confident girl and she goes everywhere with me and I mean everywhere. She knows when the collar comes out she is in for some off leash fun by the lake, beach, or going for a hike in the woods. We do a 5k and she is by my side (on leash). When we go to restaurants she is by my side. She is currently enrolled in Agility classes and the obedience classes made starting agility so much easier. With the Platinum Package i have unlimited training in the park every other Saturday and i always try to make it. We always learn something new, reinforce the basics, and I get to spend Saturday mornings with some really nice people.
  • Arthur Bochner
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Great team of dog trainers. Incorporate video illustrations to enhance training regiments. Very conscientious and good teachers. They have helped our precious little Dali become a better and more confident dog.
  • lucienne richard
    Mar. 17, 2025
    I needed help with my toy poodle he was always barking and trying to bite people. Now he loves people. Couldn't take him anywhere .now he loves to go to the park and every time we go to a class. We're always learning more if I have any questions.They always answer my question .I'm so glad I found them.I can't say enough about them. They are great.
  • Kelly Creel
    Mar. 8, 2025
    Tonya’s wisdom, experience and patience helped tremendously with training our traumatized rescue pup. There were many times during the initial training phase when I got discouraged and felt like giving up, thinking the little guy might be untrainable; but Tonya never wavered, always focused on the positive changes in his behavior, and gave us practical solutions and tools that we could focus on. We owe a depth of gratitude to Tonya and are so glad we found Elite because we now have a happy, energetic yet peaceful pet family that includes multiple dogs and cats.
  • Bryan Sarmiento
    Mar. 6, 2025
    I am very grateful to have found Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa. The sessions have not only helped Bojack and I develop a stronger bond, but they have also made me more confident in him and his capability to learn. He has surprised me with the improvement in his behavior, within such a short time, and the difference from when we started to now is night and day. While there is still more to work towards, I am more confident than ever that he can/will reach every goal we set. Thank you!
  • Susan Hetherton
    May. 13, 2023
    Wow I found this trainer by luck. Now I say it was destiny. There was no mistake. I wanted to get a dog I didn’t own yet trained but I had certain criteria that had to be met. I wanted a service dog for PTSD but the trainer had to be a female. Kim had no hesitation for my request. After about 5 sessions kim asked if she could bring her son as Queso did t want to heal. I have to say I trust Aaron as much as Kim. If you need your dog trained this is the company to go with. A+ service.
  • Pamela Villasmil
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Great Service and Positive Changes! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa! Tonya have done an incredible job helping improve my dog’s obedience and behavior. From the start, Tonya has been professional and attentive. We did experience a minor scheduling issue for our first class, but they were very accommodating. Tonya was able to reschedule the class for later that same day, and as a gesture of goodwill for the inconvenience, Tonya kindly offered us an extra session for free. The training sessions have been incredibly helpful, and my dog is showing amazing progress. I’m truly grateful for their dedication and excellent customer service!
  • Gloria George
    Feb. 19, 2025
    Training starts at home on our time with a trainer. Then, group training helps to practice the skills which is a good repetitive training provided by professionals.
  • Emily Gavrian
    Feb. 19, 2025
    My daughter and I adopted Claude (115 lb Cane Corso) a year ago. He was so well behaved at first but about 3 months ago started with some bad manners and behaviors that we couldn't get under control. After working with Tanya for only a few lessons, he's turning back into the boy we remember. He's shown how much he wants to please us and we're learning how to get him to be the best dog ever. He is so worth it and I couldn't be happier with this program!!
  • Cissy Hancock
    Jul. 2, 2023
    Fantastic, Wonderful, Awesome!!!! They came at a crucial time and the training both my puppy and I have received is outstanding. I had never used a create....after 40 years of having Labrador Retrievers...now I see how invaluable they are for both Cracker and me. Scared to use ecollars....best thing that ever happened for Cracker and me. So thankful in many ways. I was truly afraid I would have to give him up...now I know he will be with me forever ♥️. Thank You so much !!!!!!!!!
  • Porter Family
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Awesome experience. Tonya was amazing and gave me and my dog exactly what we were looking for and even exceeded our expectations! Thank you so much for everything!
  • Lisa Trant
    Feb. 7, 2025
    I have been consistently using Dog Training Elite for almost a year. I adopted a 6 yr old pitbull and he was a bit out of control when he got home due to being a street dog. He is extremely predictable and easy to walk since we started and he follows all commands even if the tools are not involved. He still keeps up with what he has learned during the group classes and has even learned a new skill or two. I have recommended them to several people in my neighborhood who have seen the drastic change in my pup and a few even signed up and THEY are having a great experience! Tonya, Luis, and Marissa have been amazing!
  • Sierra Larsen
    Dec. 18, 2024
    Marissa and Tonya are life savers, literally. Our pit mix puppy was really not getting along with our older dog and struggling with guarding, to the point we were afraid we were going to have to surrender him. Being a fearful pit mix, that is rolling the dice and we love him. He’s family. They were able to train them and teach us how to get them to coexist. It’s amazing how supportive and loving they are; both dogs get excited when either of them came… well for pets, compliments, and treats. Their expertise is vast and they even sent follow up videos and articles to further our knowledge. Plus individual and group classes! All around training from every angle including socializing with other dogs and them as distractions. If anyone is looking for a trainer, there is no question, they are the best. Best money we ever spent!
  • Leslie Sanchez
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. They have definitely made the process easy and explained everything thorough. Marissa has been a great trainer, and my pup loves her. Marissa has helped me and Hazel build confidence in being in public as we continue on our journey to get my dog as a service dog. I would recommend them to anyone 😊
  • Jeremiah Johnson
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Marissa is great with helping us learn how to manage our high energy dog, Sam. He is scared of new people, bounces off furniture and never settles, especially when nervous. After each in home training session with Marissa, Sam's behavior improved; not a little, but huge improvements. You can tell Sam is happier now as he knows what is expected of him and his anxiety is almost gone. He is still scared meeting new people, but calms down quickly and is their new best friend in a few minutes. He will stay in place when he is told for as long as we ask of him, no more constant pacing. As a 1 year old puppy, Sam is still learning, but with the techniques Marissa taught us; he is well on his way to being a well mannered and happy adult dog. I highly recommend, Marissa and Dog Training Elite. We couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Grant Kinley
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Trained my service dog with this group and had an amazing experience. They tailored training to my type of dog being small and non traditional for service dog but for my PTSD he is perfect. Encouraged both trainer and dog to be consistent. Group classes are great and the program i chose has lifetime support so if he starts a behavior or i need additional training they will be on board. Harley met his training within 1 yr with is astounding. We BOTH focused on each other and the needs he would serve and this training company was amazing to work with.
  • J C
    May. 28, 2024
    Kim, Jana, and Ryan have been great to work with. They have turned Benny's behavior around and are helping me to get him trained as a service dog. They have been very considerate and helpful with my physical limitations. We look forward to every session with them.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have a full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.
  • Olivia Meitzner
    May. 10, 2025
    Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa has completely exceeded my expectations! The one-on-one training sessions are outstanding-personalized, effective, and tailored to both you and your dog’s needs. I saw progress quickly, and the trainers are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in your success. The group training classes are equally amazing. They provide a great opportunity for socialization and reinforcing skills in a more distracting environment, which really helps solidify the training. What truly sets them apart, though, is their ongoing support. Even outside of scheduled sessions, the team is always willing to answer questions and offer guidance. It’s clear that they care about you and your dog’s journey every step of the way. I have a very loving but very stubborn Corgi who I am now so so proud of thanks to this team! Highly recommend to anyone looking for lasting results and a team that truly stands behind their work!
  • Bhavna Kumar
    May. 4, 2025
    Highly recommend Elite Dog Training! They worked wonders with my dog. Teaching obedience skills, they were patient knowledgeable and compassionate - their approach is truly effective. My dog is now well-behaved and happy service dog. Thanks to their expertise. Five stars isn't enough - I'd give them ten stars if I could!
  • David David
    Mar. 29, 2025
    When i brought home my first Doberman I was working all the time and didn’t really do the training required to unlock all the potential of this breed. Jetta was a great family dog but this time I wanted to do things different. I contacted Dog Training Elite, talked to Tonya and purchased the Puppy Platinum Package. I knew if i was going to start using an E Collar I wanted it done professionally. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive about using the E Collar and it really takes some getting used to. I started training Kara as early as possible and Tonya ensured me that it would make our bond stronger and it did. Kara is a calm, confident girl and she goes everywhere with me and I mean everywhere. She knows when the collar comes out she is in for some off leash fun by the lake, beach, or going for a hike in the woods. We do a 5k and she is by my side (on leash). When we go to restaurants she is by my side. She is currently enrolled in Agility classes and the obedience classes made starting agility so much easier. With the Platinum Package i have unlimited training in the park every other Saturday and i always try to make it. We always learn something new, reinforce the basics, and I get to spend Saturday mornings with some really nice people.
  • Arthur Bochner
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Great team of dog trainers. Incorporate video illustrations to enhance training regiments. Very conscientious and good teachers. They have helped our precious little Dali become a better and more confident dog.
  • lucienne richard
    Mar. 17, 2025
    I needed help with my toy poodle he was always barking and trying to bite people. Now he loves people. Couldn't take him anywhere .now he loves to go to the park and every time we go to a class. We're always learning more if I have any questions.They always answer my question .I'm so glad I found them.I can't say enough about them. They are great.
  • Kelly Creel
    Mar. 8, 2025
    Tonya’s wisdom, experience and patience helped tremendously with training our traumatized rescue pup. There were many times during the initial training phase when I got discouraged and felt like giving up, thinking the little guy might be untrainable; but Tonya never wavered, always focused on the positive changes in his behavior, and gave us practical solutions and tools that we could focus on. We owe a depth of gratitude to Tonya and are so glad we found Elite because we now have a happy, energetic yet peaceful pet family that includes multiple dogs and cats.
  • Bryan Sarmiento
    Mar. 6, 2025
    I am very grateful to have found Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa. The sessions have not only helped Bojack and I develop a stronger bond, but they have also made me more confident in him and his capability to learn. He has surprised me with the improvement in his behavior, within such a short time, and the difference from when we started to now is night and day. While there is still more to work towards, I am more confident than ever that he can/will reach every goal we set. Thank you!
  • Susan Hetherton
    May. 13, 2023
    Wow I found this trainer by luck. Now I say it was destiny. There was no mistake. I wanted to get a dog I didn’t own yet trained but I had certain criteria that had to be met. I wanted a service dog for PTSD but the trainer had to be a female. Kim had no hesitation for my request. After about 5 sessions kim asked if she could bring her son as Queso did t want to heal. I have to say I trust Aaron as much as Kim. If you need your dog trained this is the company to go with. A+ service.
  • Pamela Villasmil
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Great Service and Positive Changes! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa! Tonya have done an incredible job helping improve my dog’s obedience and behavior. From the start, Tonya has been professional and attentive. We did experience a minor scheduling issue for our first class, but they were very accommodating. Tonya was able to reschedule the class for later that same day, and as a gesture of goodwill for the inconvenience, Tonya kindly offered us an extra session for free. The training sessions have been incredibly helpful, and my dog is showing amazing progress. I’m truly grateful for their dedication and excellent customer service!
  • Gloria George
    Feb. 19, 2025
    Training starts at home on our time with a trainer. Then, group training helps to practice the skills which is a good repetitive training provided by professionals.
  • Emily Gavrian
    Feb. 19, 2025
    My daughter and I adopted Claude (115 lb Cane Corso) a year ago. He was so well behaved at first but about 3 months ago started with some bad manners and behaviors that we couldn't get under control. After working with Tanya for only a few lessons, he's turning back into the boy we remember. He's shown how much he wants to please us and we're learning how to get him to be the best dog ever. He is so worth it and I couldn't be happier with this program!!
  • Cissy Hancock
    Jul. 2, 2023
    Fantastic, Wonderful, Awesome!!!! They came at a crucial time and the training both my puppy and I have received is outstanding. I had never used a create....after 40 years of having Labrador Retrievers...now I see how invaluable they are for both Cracker and me. Scared to use ecollars....best thing that ever happened for Cracker and me. So thankful in many ways. I was truly afraid I would have to give him up...now I know he will be with me forever ♥️. Thank You so much !!!!!!!!!
  • Porter Family
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Awesome experience. Tonya was amazing and gave me and my dog exactly what we were looking for and even exceeded our expectations! Thank you so much for everything!
  • Lisa Trant
    Feb. 7, 2025
    I have been consistently using Dog Training Elite for almost a year. I adopted a 6 yr old pitbull and he was a bit out of control when he got home due to being a street dog. He is extremely predictable and easy to walk since we started and he follows all commands even if the tools are not involved. He still keeps up with what he has learned during the group classes and has even learned a new skill or two. I have recommended them to several people in my neighborhood who have seen the drastic change in my pup and a few even signed up and THEY are having a great experience! Tonya, Luis, and Marissa have been amazing!
  • Sierra Larsen
    Dec. 18, 2024
    Marissa and Tonya are life savers, literally. Our pit mix puppy was really not getting along with our older dog and struggling with guarding, to the point we were afraid we were going to have to surrender him. Being a fearful pit mix, that is rolling the dice and we love him. He’s family. They were able to train them and teach us how to get them to coexist. It’s amazing how supportive and loving they are; both dogs get excited when either of them came… well for pets, compliments, and treats. Their expertise is vast and they even sent follow up videos and articles to further our knowledge. Plus individual and group classes! All around training from every angle including socializing with other dogs and them as distractions. If anyone is looking for a trainer, there is no question, they are the best. Best money we ever spent!
  • Leslie Sanchez
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. They have definitely made the process easy and explained everything thorough. Marissa has been a great trainer, and my pup loves her. Marissa has helped me and Hazel build confidence in being in public as we continue on our journey to get my dog as a service dog. I would recommend them to anyone 😊
  • Jeremiah Johnson
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Marissa is great with helping us learn how to manage our high energy dog, Sam. He is scared of new people, bounces off furniture and never settles, especially when nervous. After each in home training session with Marissa, Sam's behavior improved; not a little, but huge improvements. You can tell Sam is happier now as he knows what is expected of him and his anxiety is almost gone. He is still scared meeting new people, but calms down quickly and is their new best friend in a few minutes. He will stay in place when he is told for as long as we ask of him, no more constant pacing. As a 1 year old puppy, Sam is still learning, but with the techniques Marissa taught us; he is well on his way to being a well mannered and happy adult dog. I highly recommend, Marissa and Dog Training Elite. We couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Grant Kinley
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Trained my service dog with this group and had an amazing experience. They tailored training to my type of dog being small and non traditional for service dog but for my PTSD he is perfect. Encouraged both trainer and dog to be consistent. Group classes are great and the program i chose has lifetime support so if he starts a behavior or i need additional training they will be on board. Harley met his training within 1 yr with is astounding. We BOTH focused on each other and the needs he would serve and this training company was amazing to work with.
  • J C
    May. 28, 2024
    Kim, Jana, and Ryan have been great to work with. They have turned Benny's behavior around and are helping me to get him trained as a service dog. They have been very considerate and helpful with my physical limitations. We look forward to every session with them.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have a full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.