Crate Training a Puppy: The FIRST 3 NIGHTS (No Crying!).
Crate training is crucial. But the first few nights are tough. Many puppies cry and panic. They see the crate as a jail. We will change that. We want your puppy to love their crate. This is their safe, quiet bedroom. Follow these steps. Your puppy will sleep through the night. No crying! Phase 1: The Crate is a Game, Not a Jail The first step is critical. Your puppy must feel safe inside. Introduce the Crate: Set the crate up. Put a comfy bed inside. Use a special crate-only toy, like a frozen KONG. This toy is only available in the crate. This builds positive association. Make it Fun: Throw a treat inside. Let the puppy walk in and eat it. Do not shut the door yet. Repeat this ten times. The puppy learns: crate equals reward. Use a Cue Word: Start using a quiet cue word. Say "Crate" or "Bedtime" as they go in. Give a treat. This creates an automatic response. Practice Short Closures: Once they are happily eating the treat inside, gently close the door. Open it afte...