Back to Obedience Dog Training

Crate Training

Dog Training Elite

Request Free Assessment

Request Free Assessment

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.

See Training Packages

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?

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 - Classical Conditioning Dog Training. DTE

Classical Conditioning Training

Dog Training Elite - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training. DTE

Positive Reinforcement Training

Dog Training Elite - Puppy Obedience Training. DTE

Puppy Obedience Training

Dog Training Elite - Off Leash Dog Training. Dog Training Elite

Off Leash Training

Dog Training Elite - Dog Agility Training Through Basic Obedience. Dog Training Elite

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, 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

  • Laura Vinson
    Nov. 3, 2025
    Montana came for a consultation for training. She was very thorough and answered all of our questions. I highly recommend, we are so excited to start our training for our dog. We just had our 2nd training session, and I can't believe how much better our dog is behaving and minding us. Montana is just amazing. If you need training for your puppy/dog this is definitely the way to go. We have completed our one on one training and are moving into group training. I can’t praise all of the trainers we have worked with enough. Montana, Amber, Reina, Red - they are all absolutely amazing. Our precious Newfydoodle Ruby took to training so well and I give all the credit to the excellent trainers. If you are looking for training for your dog these are the people to call you will love them and so will your precious pup.
  • Bayley Rose
    Jan. 25, 2026
    Working with Rod for service dog training has been an incredible experience. From the very beginning, the focus has always been on empowering me as the handler and helping me build a strong, confident bond with my dog. I’ve never once felt like a question was silly or “too much” — every question is met with patience, encouragement, and clear guidance. The level of support goes far beyond scheduled sessions. I always receive quick responses, whether I’m troubleshooting something, asking for clarification, or simply sharing a win along the way. Rod genuinely celebrates progress with you, which makes the journey feel supported and motivating. One moment that truly stood out was when Rod even brought required paperwork to one of our sessions to help with my dog’s pre-flight requirements. That level of thoughtfulness and advocacy speaks volumes about the care and dedication behind the training. Additionally during one session, we went to the airport, practiced going through security, and I was given all info for a TSA liaison for any future trips as well. I cannot recommend Rod highly enough. If you’re looking for service dog training that is knowledgeable, supportive, and deeply invested in both the dog and the handler, this is it. My dog, Clark, has worked hard for his vest & job; and we have been so supported the entire way. PS: Wear your tennis shoes and be ready to WORK during sessions. No time wasted, and it’s awesome!
  • Rachel Burbank
    Jan. 25, 2026
    I called Dog Training Elite after bringing a new rescue pup into our home. It was a very stressful situation as the new dog was displaying anxiety related behaviors and my resident dog was reacting poorly. Christy was able to make a house call next day for a free consultation where she was patient, informative, and provided helpful strategies to help get us through the first weeks of decompression and acclimation for both dogs. Since her visit, we feel more confident supporting each dog with their needs which has immediately improved both dog's behaviors and restored a sense of calm to our household. If this is the result without hands on training, we can't wait to see how the expertise of their team can further support our journey!
  • Danielle Dupuis
    Jan. 24, 2026
    We’re about halfway through our 1:1 training sessions and I couldn’t be happier with our experience so far. Laydon and Kristen have both been absolutely wonderful — kind, professional, and extremely knowledgeable. The progress my pup, Pepper, has already made has blown me away, and I can truly see the difference in her behavior and confidence. Every session is very productive and also a lot of fun, which makes the whole process so enjoyable. They explain things clearly, are patient, and genuinely care about both the dogs and their owners. I’m really looking forward to completing the rest of our 1:1 sessions and starting group sessions soon. I would highly recommend Laydon and Kristen at Dog Training Elite to anyone looking for excellent dog trainers!
  • Kate Preece
    Jan. 24, 2026
    Elite training transformed my biting puppy into a well-trained happy little companion. I nearly gave her back to the APA but Jenny intervened and rescued both me and my little pup. We’ve made it through the program and I am so happy that I never surrendered her. Jenny’s first visit made the biggest difference and it was downhill from there!!
  • Jeffrey England
    Jan. 23, 2026
    Reina is friendly and knows her job very well.
  • Kevin Sullivan
    Jan. 22, 2026
    Great company, trainers and results! All the trainers we worked with were very knowledgeable, professional and helped us to make significant improvements in our beloved pup’s behaviors! He went from slightly reactive and very anxious around new people to being able to walk through a crowded area on command. Most importantly, they trained us on best ways to continue to communicate with our pup so that the training never stops. We especially enjoyed working with Jocy, would recommend her to anyone!
  • laurene holcomb
    Jan. 22, 2026
    Excellent communication and knowledge..never rushed .. just wonderful for me and my Shepard .. highly recommend elite trainers!! Been with for six months and we have mastered many commands and go in public and are progressing so well.. so glad I have elite to train me and my Shepard !
  • Red Watts
    Jan. 22, 2026
    Giving a full 5 stars already, which is rare for me. Great service, some serious dog trainers here. They came to my house, not ones but twice cause I missed the first appointment. Free in house assessment and can give you a quote on the spot.
  • Tricia
    Jan. 22, 2026
    Alaina was awesome with honey and training her with the new collar
  • Kathleen Pelletier
    Jan. 22, 2026
    Enjoying great puppy training!!
  • Aaron Compton
    Jan. 22, 2026
    Very professional and knowledgeable.
  • Tina Ramsey
    Jan. 22, 2026
    She is a wonderful trainer and Bear loved her!!
  • Anneliese Parsons
    Jan. 21, 2026
    Jenny at Dog Training Elite is fantastic. Her training approach is clear, effective, and tailored to my dog’s specific behaviors. She took the time to explain the “why” behind each technique and made sure we felt confident continuing the training on our own. We started seeing results in our very first session, and we’re so grateful for her expertise. Highly recommend!
  • Shefali Patel
    Jan. 21, 2026
    Working with Mike through DTE's psychiatric service dog training has been such a positive experience for both me and my dog Sugar. From day one, she’s been completely comfortable with him, and it really shows in how quickly she picks up what he teaches. Mike takes the time to explain every small detail and why it matters, which has helped me become more confident and consistent as a handler. He also gently holds us accountable for practicing between sessions, and that structure has made a big difference in our progress. I’m genuinely very happy with the training and the growth I’m seeing in my dog. Highly recommend Mike if you’re looking for someone knowledgeable, patient, and truly invested in your success.
  • Melissa Forestal
    Dec. 8, 2025
    Marshall is great. My dog Toby took to him instantly and he's doing great. I appreciate the direction and the tips to help make Toby and I a success. Thank you.
  • Tess Wiltgen
    Jan. 20, 2026
    We’ve only just started platinum training for my stubborn 3 year old French bulldog, and two weeks in my boy is already following new commands both on and off leash. We still have a long way to go, but Montana has been nothing but professional, prompt, and thorough in walking me thru all the steps she takes to achieve the desired end result. We will miss her immensely as she embarks on a new, self owned professional training venue down in Georgia. Thank you for being so wonderful!
  • Kelsey Podmeyer
    Jan. 20, 2026
    Michael has been incredible to work with and learn from! My dog, Gio, absolutely adores him. He has made me feel so much more comfortable handling Gio & working towards our goal of becoming a therapy dog. Thank you DTE!!
  • Will Mohney
    Jan. 19, 2026
    Brennan knows his pups. Max 10 weeks old was attentive and open to the learning techniques. We, parents, learned the most in session one !! 5 stars.
  • Mary Gorman
    Jan. 19, 2026
    Excellent instruction and advice! Highly recommend!