How to Crate Train ANY Puppy or Dog Crate Training Your Puppy or Dog Tip! Your puppy or dog will go to the crate when he/she wants to escape, sleep or just be comfortable. Introducing your puppy to the crate should be an easy and fun process. First, start by putting the crate somewhere the puppy enjoys being. Try the family room or wherever everyone "hangs out". Open the door and just let your puppy explore at his own pace. Reward him for going near it by tossing a cheerio or some other small treat. To teach the words "kennel" (I use 'go to bed') Just toss in a treat and say the word. Don't shut the door everytime. Never shove your dog in a crate. Your dog will quickly learn that kennel means get in your crate. Tip! Crate training is essential to your puppies well being. If your dog doesn't go in after the cookie, then toss it closer and closer until your dog does go in. Then let him come out on his own. You dont want your puppy to learn that everytime you say it you mean you are going to be leaving him. Otherwise he might avoid getting in! You can also feed your dog in their kennel. If everytime you reward them for going in, they will begin to enjoy it and have a positive association to the crate. Finally, when you do leave your dog leave a stuffed kong to keep your puppy busy. If they do whine or bark, never let them out. Wait until they are quiet. Teach your dog to sit patiently while waiting to leave the crate. Starting manners early will eliminate common problems. Tip! One of the main advantages of crate training is that you can relocate your dog or puppy and they still have their haven. They adjust much faster to new surroundings. Amy Dunphy The Dog Trainer Search Find everything you need to train your dog or puppy.