Hey everyone! I’m trying to crate train my puppy and could really use some tips. He’s about 2 months old and the crate is next to my bed. I know it’s important not to make the crate a negative space, but IDK where to start. Any advice on how to get him used to it without too much stress?
I’m in the same boat! I’ve been feeding my pup in the crate with the door open, and that’s been helping. Don’t rush it, though. Start slow and reward him for exploring the crate on his own. 
Shaniera said:
I’m in the same boat! I’ve been feeding my pup in the crate with the door open, and that’s been helping. Don’t rush it, though. Start slow and reward him for exploring the crate on his own.
Yeah, I did that too! It really worked. Also, try tossing some treats in there when he’s not looking to make the crate seem fun. It worked for my dog!
Shaniera said:
I’m in the same boat! I’ve been feeding my pup in the crate with the door open, and that’s been helping. Don’t rush it, though. Start slow and reward him for exploring the crate on his own.
Good idea with the treats! I’ve been using smelly treats and that really grabbed his attention lol. 
I’ve been using a calming CD and it really helped with my puppy’s anxiety in the crate. There’s also this stuffed dog with a heartbeat that you can get, it calms them down pretty fast.
Isabelle said:
I’ve been using a calming CD and it really helped with my puppy’s anxiety in the crate. There’s also this stuffed dog with a heartbeat that you can get, it calms them down pretty fast.
Ooh, I didn’t know about the heartbeat toy! I’m gonna try that. My puppy gets super anxious when I leave him in the crate.
I made the mistake of closing the door too soon. My puppy got all upset. It takes patience, but don’t stress if things don’t go perfectly right away.
Gideon said:
I made the mistake of closing the door too soon. My puppy got all upset. It takes patience, but don’t stress if things don’t go perfectly right away.
Same! I accidentally closed the door before he was ready and now I’m leaving it open while he naps. Hopefully that works!
One trick I used was to start with short sessions. Just a few minutes with the door closed and then open it. Gradually increase the time and only open the door when he’s quiet!
Jordanmatter said:
One trick I used was to start with short sessions. Just a few minutes with the door closed and then open it. Gradually increase the time and only open the door when he’s quiet!
That’s a good approach! I’ve been trying that too and it’s been working slowly. I don’t want to rush him into it.
Try giving him interactive toys like Kongs or Buster cubes while he’s in the crate. It’ll keep him busy and distracted so he doesn’t focus on being alone.
PixelPioneer said:
Try giving him interactive toys like Kongs or Buster cubes while he’s in the crate. It’ll keep him busy and distracted so he doesn’t focus on being alone.
Great tip! I’m definitely getting a Kong for mine. Does it really help with teething too?
@Gideon
Yep, it’s perfect for teething! I stuff it with peanut butter and freeze it overnight. Helps keep him entertained for hours.