Puppy crate training – how to make your puppy feel safe and secure

Crate training is an incredibly supportive tool that not only helps manage your puppy's behaviour but also gives them a cosy, safe space of their own—a place they can turn to whenever they need a moment of calm or a nap. Far from being a ‘cage’ or a punishment, a crate offers your puppy a sense of security and comfort that’s actually rooted in their instincts and history as den animals.

For thousands of years, wild dogs and wolves instinctively sought out small, enclosed spaces to rest, hide, and feel safe. These dens served as secure retreats, providing protection from predators and a quiet space to relax and raise their young. For your puppy, a crate can feel just like a modern-day den. It’s a small, personal haven where they can relax, observe their surroundings, and feel protected from the hustle and bustle of the home.

Puppies are like little sponges, absorbing everything around them, and this new world can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. A crate provides a gentle way to introduce them to the household routine and helps prevent feelings of stress or overstimulation. Over time, your puppy will come to recognise the crate as a place where they can rest, chew on a favourite toy, or enjoy some quiet time. Knowing that they have this secure space can help them develop confidence and independence, making them happier and more resilient.

Crate training is also a helpful foundation for other types of training, like toilet training and learning to spend time alone. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their resting spaces, so a crate (as long as it’s the right size) can help puppies learn to hold it until they’re in an appropriate spot to go. It also eases separation anxiety as they get used to short periods of independence, reducing stress when you’re not around.

When done right—with plenty of treats, encouragement, and a cosy bed—a crate can become your puppy’s favourite retreat. It’s not about confinement; it’s about providing comfort, safety, and a place for your puppy to unwind, just like their ancestors did.

Get in touch to find out more on crate training your puppy – we also offer day-trains and currently are crate training some pups for their owners during the day.