How to crate train your Goldendoodle puppy
When you bring your new Goldendoodle puppy home, you embark on an exciting adventure to improve your life. One of the first tasks that you should take on is crate training. Crate training is an essential tool that assists with housebreaking and providing a secure and comforting space for your furry friend. Here’s how to crate train your Goldendoodle puppy to ensure a positive and stress-free experience for you and your new puppy.
The purpose of crate training
Crate training plays a pivotal role in housebreaking by providing dogs with a designated space to manage their bodily functions until taken outdoors. Using crates:
- enhances safety,
- curbs potential accidents,
- and deters destructive behaviors,
particularly when owners are away.
During travel, crate-trained puppies experience increased comfort and reduced stress. A crate-trained dog is more manageable in emergencies, facilitating quick relocation and adaptability to new environments. The crate serves as a secure haven, fostering a sense of relaxation and security for the puppy.
Beyond its practical applications, crate training contributes to smoother veterinary visits, grooming sessions, and various aspects of behavioral training, ultimately promoting a well-adjusted and content canine companion. A well-trained Goldendoodle will view their crate as a cozy retreat, reducing anxiety when you’re away and aiding in the housebreaking process.
Here’s how to crate train your Goldendoodle puppy to ensure a positive and stress-free experience for you and your new companion.
“We brought home our precious Rex 3 weeks ago and we couldn’t be more in love! Deborah was amazing and gave us all the information we needed as first time dog owners. She even brought him to the airport so we wouldn’t have to fly in and rent a car since we were out of town. She continues to answer all of our questions and we couldn’t ask for a breeder. Also, Rex is one of the cutest goldendoodle’s we’ve seen and has been extremely well behaved. He holds his bladder 7-8 hours a night, and picked up on commands within 1 session and is already mostly potty trained at only 12 weeks old. We love our little guy and would HIGHLY recommend to anyone!!”
-Nikki G.
1. Choose the right crate for their size
The first step is to choose the right size crate. Select a crate that is large enough for your puppy to:
- stand up,
- turn around,
- and lie down comfortably.
However, avoid choosing a crate that is too spacious, as puppies are less likely to do their outdoor business in a smaller space. Many crates are designed to accommodate the growth of a puppy. These adjustable crates often come with partitions or dividers that can be moved or removed as the puppy grows.
2. Make it comfortable
We gravitate towards comfortable and familiar spaces, so make the crate exactly that. Add a soft bed or blanket, and consider placing an item with your scent inside to provide reassurance when you’re not around.
3. Introduce your puppy to the crate
Here’s how to make the crate a welcoming, positive space for your new puppy. Put treats, toys, and a soft blanket inside to attract your Goldendoodle puppy. Initially, keep the door open, allowing your puppy to explore the crate at their own pace. Encourage positive associations by praising and rewarding them when they show interest in the new crate. Soon, your new puppy will show more interest in their crate and will start to go to it on their own.
“We adopted our pup Harvey from Copper Skye Doodles right before Covid hit the world – March 2020. We’re thrilled with his personality. Deb made sure we knew what was in store for us, advised us on foods and vitamins, and helped us get the first shots arranged. We got to pick Harvey out of the litter at six weeks old and were excited to bring him home at eight weeks. He’s very smart, active, and was a breeze to train. After two nights with us, he slept through the night. We’re smitten!“
-Christine S.
4. Feed your Goldendoodle in the crate
Another way to associate the crate with positive experiences is by placing your Goldendoodle’s food bowl close to the crate before eventually moving it inside. As your puppy becomes more comfortable eating inside, close the crate door for short periods, gradually increasing the duration.
5. Slowly increase your pup’s alone time in the crate
Once your puppy is comfortable with the closed crate during mealtime, start leaving them alone for short intervals. Stay close initially and gradually increase the time you spend away. This helps prevent separation anxiety and builds your puppy’s confidence in being alone in their crate.
6. Keep routine consistent by crate training
Establish a consistent routine for crate usage. Use the crate when you leave the house, during nighttime, and for short intervals during the day. Consistency reinforces the idea that the crate is a secure and routine part of their environment.
7. Patience and positive reinforcement go a long way with crate training
Crate training takes time and patience. Always use positive reinforcement, reward good behavior, and never use the crate as a form of punishment. This creates a positive association, making the crate a place your puppy willingly goes to for comfort.
Crate training your puppy is a crucial way to boost their well-being and your peace of mind. With patience, positive reinforcement, and a well-thought-out approach, you can ensure that your furry friend views their crate as a safe and comforting space. Every puppy is unique, so it’s important to adjust the training process based on your puppy’s individual needs and preferences.
Are you ready to welcome a Goldendoodle puppy into your family?
If you’re in Los Angeles and ready to open your home to a new family member, consider adopting one of our puppies. At Copper Skye Doodles, I’m more than just a breeder – I’m a dog lover dedicated to connecting you with a loyal, loving companion who will bring joy and warmth to your family.
To learn more about my Goldendoodle puppies and how you can make one a part of your family, contact me today. I can’t wait to help you find your furry match. Say hello to endless tail wags, heart-melting eyes, and a lifetime of unforgettable moments with your new Goldendoodle puppy from Copper Skye Doodles.
