You brought home your first puppy and now you need to train him.  Dog crates are your most useful ally in this process.

Dogs love their dens.  They instinctively know not to soil them because that helps predators find them.  With a proper introduction, the crate will become your dog’s den, and they will do anything they can to avoid soiling it.

Once you get your crate, set it up with a couple of toys, a pad, and perhaps a blanket.  Let your puppy explore the crate and praise him every time he goes in.  At night, the crate should be in your room, so your puppy can smell and hear you as this helps with bonding.  When you can’t be with your puppy, or it is time to sleep, place your puppy in the crate with a treat and praise him.

As soon as you remove the puppy from the crate, be it morning or any other time, take him straight outside.  This will teach the puppy to eliminate as soon as they get out of their crate, and it reduces the number of accidents in your home.  By the way, even with crate training, accidents are inevitable at first.  Never use a crate as punishment if you want your dog to enjoy being in the crate.

Crates are available in a variety of styles, sizes and materials, like a wood dog crate.  Collapsible wire crates are great if you travel a lot.  Some airlines require enclosed plastic crates for flying.  Pick a crate that is large enough for your dog to stand and turn around, but not large enough for them to wander.

Dog crates are the perfect accessory for any dog owner, and make a happy home for your dog too.