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Crate Training

Dog Training Elite

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A young dog receiving puppy crate training from DTE.

Dog Training Elite

Puppy Crate Training

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 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.

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Dog Training Elite

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 with DTE.

Why Should You Use Crate Training?

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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.

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Two well-behaved puppies after training in their crates.

Start Crate Training Today


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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, 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!

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See An Elite Dog in Action

The Malionois Foundation logo.
The Malionois Foundation logo.

Proud Sponsor of
The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite works with The Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.

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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Christina Bernard
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Badgers first training session was a game changer looking forward to working with Beth! Thank you! Week 8 and I am over the moon! When Badger and me started with Beth and Rene I was skeptical as my pup had spent 15 months 24/7 with me with very little contact with other humans and that being family only . He jumped, barked pulled had no direction! Ahh 8 weeks later I ask myself who is this gentle 80 pound pup who listens to all commands, come, sit, down , heal and place! I can walk with him and take him in the public! Thank you Beth and Rene! I am a senior citizen and a 80 pound pulling jumping dog is not fun. Thanks to you I enjoy Badger and others can to! I recommend you and your business to anyone with a dog! Thank you from Badger and Christina.
  • Athena Poole
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Jeff and yaga are amazing they know their stuff. Our little pup It’s always so exciting to work with Jeff and Yaga.
  • Hoff Stauffer
    Feb. 12, 2025
    He was very helpful. She will walk on a leash now. 🤗
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • CYNDE ROW
    Oct. 1, 2024
    Meggie is always so informative and an excellent dog trainer! She everything FUN!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • Emily Fintak
    Feb. 11, 2025
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite! We’ve had the best experience!
  • j d
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Gray and Denise with Dog Training Elite Hill Country are the BEST!! Gray is an amazing trainer, such a delight to be with and Nacho adores him. We look forward to every visit. Hopefully Nacho will become a great Therapy Dog and bring joy and comfort to many in need!
  • Skally Benitez
    Jan. 15, 2025
    Anuj and his team are amazing trainers! So knowledgeable and patient answering all our questions to help us learn along with our pup. Highly recommend and support a veteran ran business.
  • Julie Braun
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Marcy was a fabulous trainer. Odie responded to his training so well. He did such a great job and grew so much. So thankful Marcy was patient and helpful. Highly recommend the program. Thank you Dog Training Elite Northeast WI.
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Cristy Estes
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Anthony was patient and gave great feedback for what I could work on with my dog. He was very helpful.
  • Fred Conley
    Feb. 11, 2025
    We had a lot of trouble controlling Bandit before he attended Dog Training Elite Upstate. Since he was trained he is a different dog. He is very obedient and very happy. We recommend Upstate to anyone who would like to have a well trained dog
  • Tj Franks
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Meggie is doing such a great job with both Dexter and myself. She’s extremely knowledgeable and supportive. Meggie is a fantastic trainer. Thank you so much for your support and help!!!
  • Tamika Bloodworth
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Craig was hired to turn our 2 year old Mini Goldendoodle into a service dog specifically so he could fly back and forth cross country with my daughter. Craig was amazing, friendly, professional, flexible and worth every cent. Our boy had his first flight yesterday from orlando to LA and did perfect! He got so many compliments on his well behaved demeanor and even the flight attendants said they forgot there was a dog onboard! Everyone wanted to know who his trainer was and we were happy to refer them to Craig! Thanks so much Craig- you changed our lives.
  • Captain Marie
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Danielle is amazing! Right in the first 45 minutes my dog learned trust and confidence. My main focus was “recall” This journey started about 8 weeks ago. Rex is now walking with me off leash. He listens , does not take off for hours anymore. Just a completely changed dog in no time. Money well spent! I do recommend Dog training elite!
  • Lisa
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Alisa came for an introduction and evaluation. She was prompt and professional and really took the time to explain the methods and goals of the available training programs. I look forward to working with her again.
  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Christina Bernard
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Badgers first training session was a game changer looking forward to working with Beth! Thank you! Week 8 and I am over the moon! When Badger and me started with Beth and Rene I was skeptical as my pup had spent 15 months 24/7 with me with very little contact with other humans and that being family only . He jumped, barked pulled had no direction! Ahh 8 weeks later I ask myself who is this gentle 80 pound pup who listens to all commands, come, sit, down , heal and place! I can walk with him and take him in the public! Thank you Beth and Rene! I am a senior citizen and a 80 pound pulling jumping dog is not fun. Thanks to you I enjoy Badger and others can to! I recommend you and your business to anyone with a dog! Thank you from Badger and Christina.
  • Athena Poole
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Jeff and yaga are amazing they know their stuff. Our little pup It’s always so exciting to work with Jeff and Yaga.
  • Hoff Stauffer
    Feb. 12, 2025
    He was very helpful. She will walk on a leash now. 🤗
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • CYNDE ROW
    Oct. 1, 2024
    Meggie is always so informative and an excellent dog trainer! She everything FUN!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • Emily Fintak
    Feb. 11, 2025
    I highly recommend Dog Training Elite! We’ve had the best experience!
  • j d
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Gray and Denise with Dog Training Elite Hill Country are the BEST!! Gray is an amazing trainer, such a delight to be with and Nacho adores him. We look forward to every visit. Hopefully Nacho will become a great Therapy Dog and bring joy and comfort to many in need!
  • Skally Benitez
    Jan. 15, 2025
    Anuj and his team are amazing trainers! So knowledgeable and patient answering all our questions to help us learn along with our pup. Highly recommend and support a veteran ran business.
  • Julie Braun
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Marcy was a fabulous trainer. Odie responded to his training so well. He did such a great job and grew so much. So thankful Marcy was patient and helpful. Highly recommend the program. Thank you Dog Training Elite Northeast WI.
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Megan W.
    Feb. 11, 2025
    When I got my puppy, Henry, I was hoping to turn him into a service dog, but had no clue where to even start. Tom has been there every step of the way to help us get to that point. Henry will now alert to me on his own, and I know that wouldn’t have been possible without Tom’s expertise. And I have been so impressed with how well thought out the group classes are! It’s been amazing to watch Henry’s improvement with each outing. Would 1000% recommend this program to anyone!
  • Cristy Estes
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Anthony was patient and gave great feedback for what I could work on with my dog. He was very helpful.
  • Fred Conley
    Feb. 11, 2025
    We had a lot of trouble controlling Bandit before he attended Dog Training Elite Upstate. Since he was trained he is a different dog. He is very obedient and very happy. We recommend Upstate to anyone who would like to have a well trained dog
  • Tj Franks
    Jan. 28, 2025
    Meggie is doing such a great job with both Dexter and myself. She’s extremely knowledgeable and supportive. Meggie is a fantastic trainer. Thank you so much for your support and help!!!
  • Tamika Bloodworth
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Craig was hired to turn our 2 year old Mini Goldendoodle into a service dog specifically so he could fly back and forth cross country with my daughter. Craig was amazing, friendly, professional, flexible and worth every cent. Our boy had his first flight yesterday from orlando to LA and did perfect! He got so many compliments on his well behaved demeanor and even the flight attendants said they forgot there was a dog onboard! Everyone wanted to know who his trainer was and we were happy to refer them to Craig! Thanks so much Craig- you changed our lives.
  • Captain Marie
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Danielle is amazing! Right in the first 45 minutes my dog learned trust and confidence. My main focus was “recall” This journey started about 8 weeks ago. Rex is now walking with me off leash. He listens , does not take off for hours anymore. Just a completely changed dog in no time. Money well spent! I do recommend Dog training elite!
  • Lisa
    Feb. 11, 2025
    Alisa came for an introduction and evaluation. She was prompt and professional and really took the time to explain the methods and goals of the available training programs. I look forward to working with her again.