Crate Training a Puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting—but let’s be honest: it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re preparing for your pup’s arrival or you’re already in the thick of late-night whining, chewed-up shoes, and potty accidents, you’re probably wondering about the proper way of crate training a puppy.

Let Maniac Mutts help create some calm in the chaos. We specialize in helping Portland-area families build healthy routines and lifelong bonds with their dogs using positive, force-free methods. Our crate training support is designed for people just like you—people who want to do the right thing for their dog but aren’t sure where to start.

What Is Crate Training?

Crate training is the process of helping your dog learn to rest, relax, and feel safe inside a crate. It gives puppies a secure place to call their own—a cozy den where they can nap, sleep, and decompress.

At Maniac Mutts, we teach crate training as a relationship-based tool, not a punishment. Crates can help with potty training, prevent destructive behavior, and offer much-needed structure—especially for puppies who are still figuring out the world. But like any tool, it only works when used with care, intention, and patience.

If you’re not sure how to start—or you’ve already started and it’s not going well—we’re here to guide you.

Our Positive Crate Training Process

At Maniac Mutts, we customize every crate training plan to fit your puppy’s age, personality, and comfort level. We’ll teach you how to:

• Introduce the crate gently using small steps, treats, and calm reinforcement
• Build positive associations with being a dog in the crate, not fear or frustration
• Recognize your puppy’s stress signals so you never push too far, too fast
• Close the door without creating panic—and help your dog learn to relax with the door closed
• Support your puppy during transitions like crating your dog when you leave the house or crated at night

Every dog learns at their own pace. Whether you’re dealing with a confident explorer or a shy, anxious rescue pup, we’ll meet you where you are and build from there.

Choosing the Right Crate

Not sure which crate to buy or where to put it? We help with that too.

During your first consultation, we’ll walk you through choosing the right dog crate based on your space, your routine, and your puppy’s future size. We’ll cover:

• Size: It should be big enough to stand, turn, and lie down—but not so big they treat one corner as a bathroom. Take into account the adult size of your puppy, too.
• Material: We’ll help you choose between wire and plastic models depending on your pup’s behavior and comfort needs.
• Location: We’ll recommend where to put the crate so your dog feels safe and connected—not isolated.
• Comfort: We’ll suggest safe, chew-resistant dog beds or crate mats that make the crate inviting without risking destruction.

Choosing the right setup from the start makes the whole process easier—for both you and your dog.

Real-Life Support, Not Just Instructions

You don’t have to do this alone—or guess your way through it. Our crate training support includes:

• One-on-one consultations in person or virtually
• Step-by-step guidance tailored to your home and dog
• Trouble-shooting help if your dog is whining, refusing to enter, or having accidents
• Judgment-free support for overwhelmed pet parents

We know that some puppies need more time. We also know that some families just need someone to walk them through it. That’s what we’re here for.

How Long Does It Take?

Every puppy is different, but most of our clients begin seeing progress within the first few sessions. We’ll work with you to build a plan that fits your lifestyle—whether you’re starting with an 8-week-old pup or an older rescue dog with a rough history.

There is no set period of time, but by using small steps, praise, and observation, we teach your dog to see the crate as their sanctuary—not a scary place behind a closed door.

Common Crate Training Struggles We Can Help With

• Your dog panics the moment you close the crate door
• You can’t crate your dog when you leave without barking or whining
• Your puppy is still having accidents even when crated
• You’re not sure how long is too long to leave them inside
• You’ve tried everything, but nothing is working
• You’re just plain freaking out—and that’s okay!

Crate training doesn’t have to be a battle. With the right guidance, it can actually help your dog feel calmer, safer, and more settled—especially during those first few chaotic months.

Why Choose Maniac Mutts?

Maniac Mutts was founded by a former shelter worker who saw far too many dogs surrendered due to behavioral issues that could have been prevented with the right support. Our mission is to help dogs and their people live more peacefully and confidently together.

We specialize in positive, relationship-based training that builds cooperation—not conflict. When you choose Maniac Mutts, you’re not just getting expert dog training—you’re gaining a partner who truly cares about your dog’s happiness and your peace of mind.

If you’re unsure about crate training or already feeling stuck, you don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re here to make the process clear, manageable, and even fun.