Crate training your dog might just be one of the best decisions you make as a pet parent.
It’s hard to imagine day-to-day life with a puppy without the option to safely confine them when you’re away or need a break. Contrary to popular misconceptions, a crate is not a punishment—it’s a powerful tool that helps you build a calm, structured, and safe routine for your dog.
A crate should be introduced as a safe and cozy den, a space your dog enjoys returning to. The key to successful crate training is patience, consistency, and using positive reinforcement.
Crate Training in 5 Easy Steps
No! A dog’s physical and behavioral traits significantly influence how well they adapt to outdoor living. Breeds with thick undercoats, such as Alaskan Malamutes, Huskies, or Bernese Mountain Dogs, are naturally equipped for cold climates and can thrive outdoors if provided with proper shelter.
Conversely, short-haired breeds like French Bulldogs, Amstaffs or Beagle lack natural insulation and are sensitive to temperature changes. Similarly, smaller breeds and older dogs are more prone to losing body heat, making them less suitable for outdoor living.
Why crate training matters
A crate offers your dog a secure place to rest, while giving you peace of mind and control over the environment—especially when you’re not home. It’s also an essential tool for travel, vet visits, and general safety. When used correctly, a crate becomes your dog’s personal space, not a cage.
Crate Training in 5 Easy Steps
1. Introduce the crate calmly
Set up the crate in a common living area and leave the door open. Add a soft blanket to the bottom. Let your puppy explore the crate on their own. If they enter voluntarily, praise and reward them. Play nearby to create positive associations.
2. Encourage voluntary entry
Place your dog’s favorite toy or treats inside the crate. You can also scatter a few small treats around the crate and let your dog sniff and discover them on their own. This helps create positive experiences linked to the crate.
3. Close the door for short intervals
Once your puppy is relaxed inside the crate with the door open, begin closing it for a few minutes while staying nearby. Gradually increase the time. If your dog whines or barks, wait for a pause in the noise before opening the door. Never reward vocalization by letting them out immediately.
4. Move away from the crate
Once your puppy is comfortable with closed doors, start moving around the house while they’re inside. The goal is for them to remain calm and relaxed even when you’re not in the same room.
5. Leave the house briefly
Finally, step outside your home for 10–15 minutes while your dog stays in the crate. Return calmly. Slowly extend the duration of your absences. A pet camera can help you monitor your dog’s behavior. Some dogs find comfort in a covered crate, which makes the space feel darker and safer.
Things you should never do
Never force your dog into the crate.
Never use the crate as a form of punishment.
Don’t use a crate that is too small.
Avoid placing the crate in extremely hot, cold, or drafty areas.
Don’t leave your dog crated for too long.
Never let them out while they are whining or barking.
Helpful tips to speed up crate training
Ignore your dog when you come or go—keep departures and arrivals low-key.
Leave an item of clothing with your scent in the crate.
Use a consistent phrase or gesture that signals you’ll return soon.
Leave a durable chew toy or food-stuffed puzzle toy in the crate.
Ensure your dog is healthy, especially digestion-wise. Puppies with diarrhea or stomach upset will not relax in a crate.
Outdoor kennels with Indestructible, Insulated Dog Houses
If you have a backyard or garden, outdoor kennels combined with a quality insulated dog house are an excellent solution—especially during warmer months. They provide your dog with more space and freedom while ensuring safety.
Why choose an outdoor kennel (box) with an insulated dog house?
More freedom of movement than a small indoor crate
Safe environment that prevents chewing dangerous items indoors
Fresh air and temperature regulation during warm months
Perfect for breeders, working dogs, or multi-dog households
Permanent or semi-permanent setups for when dogs can’t stay indoors
At DT Dog House, we offer indestructible insulated dog houses specifically designed for outdoor use. These houses are:
Made from durable, dog-proof materials (no more chewed-up wood!)
Easy to clean and disinfect
Equipped with thermal insulation to protect against heat and cold
Designed with comfort, safety, and long-lasting use in mind
Stylish, modular, and suited for all breeds and sizes
If your dog spends part of the day outside or you need a secure space while you’re away, this is the best combination of comfort and security. It’s ideal not just for warm days but also for transitional seasons like spring and fall.
Aluminum Transport Crates – The Gold Standard in Travel Safety
Whether you’re heading to the vet or traveling long distances, transport box are a must-have. While fabric or plastic options are common, the safest and most reliable choice is an aluminum dog transport box.
Benefits of aluminum transport crates:
Maximum stability and crash protection
Durable, long-lasting and chew-proof
Easy to clean and ventilated
Prevents sliding or flipping during driving
Keeps your car cleaner and more organized
Unlike wire crates or soft carriers, aluminum crates are built to protect your dog in case of an accident. They also offer a calm, enclosed space for anxious travelers. Especially useful for dogs who dislike car rides—firm flooring and solid walls create a more secure, less overwhelming environment.
If you’re traveling frequently or value safety above all, investing in a high-quality aluminum transport box is absolutely worth it.
Home Crates – Comfortable and Practical
Indoor or “home” crates serve as safe zones for rest, relaxation, or when you leave the house. These are usually larger wire crates, suitable for medium to large breeds. If your dog prefers a more cozy feel, you can cover the crate partially with a light blanket.
For example, our dog Bond uses a foldable wire crate with a soft floor mat and a comfy cushion. We keep it open when we’re home, and Bond often goes in voluntarily to nap or chew on his treats. When we leave the house, we gently cover the crate to give him a calm, den-like atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Crate training takes time and consistency—but it’s well worth the effort. Whether it’s for indoor rest, safe travel, or outdoor comfort, the right crate provides your dog with security and stability.
A properly introduced crate becomes a sanctuary, not a punishment.
Outdoor crates with insulated dog houses offer freedom with protection.
Aluminum travel crates deliver unmatched safety on the road.
In the end, it’s all about helping your dog feel confident, calm, and safe—wherever they are.
