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Crate Training for Puppies in Asheville, NC

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When introducing a new puppy to your home, crate training is one of the most important instructions for your pup. Though some dog owners initially question the idea of crate training, a crate gives you and your dog a sense of security when used properly. Read on to learn more about the benefits of enrolling in a crate training puppy program in Asheville, as well as important tips to keep in mind throughout the training process.

Puppy training with Dog Training Elite Asheville gives you all the skills and tools you need to help make your new puppy a part of the family, without using shock collars. Contact us today!

What is Crate Training?

Crate training is the practice of teaching a puppy that a metal, plastic, or fabric-covered cage (crate) is their safe place. This taps into the natural denning instincts of dogs, and they will learn that the crate is their personal spot that they can retreat to whenever they desire.

In addition to offering dogs a sense of peace and territory, crate training significantly speeds up the house breaking process. Once a puppy learns that their crate is a safe place, or 'den', they will instinctively want to keep this area clean. During house breaking, keeping your puppy inside the crate dramatically reduces accidents. Keep eyes and ears open to your puppy's bathroom signals and quickly bring him or her outside. This will help your puppy learn that outside is the place to go, not inside.

Dog Training Elite offers a professional puppy training program in Asheville that includes crate training services.

Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Asheville location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.


Silver

$1,095

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 3 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 8 Sessions
  • Come
  • Heel (walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
  • Sit (next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Place (go to bed)
  • Quiet (stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Off(furniture when desired)

Gold

$1,895

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 6 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 16 Sessions
  • Come
  • Heel (walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
  • Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Place(go to bed)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Off(furniture when desired)
  • Down(lay next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Load Up (go into kennel, car, or dog house)
  • Manners, Safety & Boundaries
  • Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
  • Housebreaking / Potty Training
  • STOP Jumping on People
  • STOP Mouthing & Nipping
  • STOP Chewing & Digging
  • STOP Begging & Stealing Food
  • STOP Bolting Through Doors & Running Away
  • STOP Chasing Animals, Cars & Bikes
  • STOP Reactivity (dog & human)

Platinum

$2,895

Platinum offers advanced obedience/behavioral modification with a goal of off-leash control. Includes additional training options and offers more one-on-one and group sessions than Gold.

  • In-Home Training SessionsOne-on-one & personalized 9 Sessions
  • Group Park Training Sessions 24 Sessions
  • Come
  • Heel (walk with you, loose leash no pulling)
  • Sit(next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Place(go to bed)
  • Quiet(stop excessive barking & whining)
  • Off(furniture when desired)
  • Down(lay next to you & off leash at a distance)
  • Load Up (go into kennel, car, or dog house)
  • Manners, Safety & Boundaries
  • Calm Anxiety & Build Confidence
  • Housebreaking / Potty Training
  • STOP Jumping on People
  • STOP Mouthing & Nipping
  • STOP Chewing & Digging
  • STOP Begging & Stealing Food
  • STOP Bolting Through Doors & Running Away
  • STOP Chasing Animals, Cars & Bikes
  • STOP Reactivity (dog & human)
  • *Stay With You on a Job or Bike Ride (off-leash)
  • *Emotional Support Dog Training(ESA)
  • *Control Aggression(dog & human)
  • *Calm Extreme Anxiety(behavioral modification)
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We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!

Absolutely thrilled with the transformation in my once seemingly untrainable cattle dog, thanks to David! Their expertise, patience, and tailored training methods have turned my dog into an amazing companion. Highly recommend to any pet owner looking for genuine and effective training solutions!
— Rachel Stemerman
Posted April 27th 2024
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We could not have asked for better trainers! The difference between our Luna and Rocky’s behavior is incredible! We would 100% recommend getting your puppies/dog’s trained by Dog Training Elite!
— Gina Whitt
Posted April 25th 2024
google
We were seeking support with our sassy pup, Murphy, who picks and chooses when she likes other dogs! Nicole and David have been incredible in helping us gain confidence in how to best support Murph and how to handle situations where she becomes aggressive/avoid them altogether! They have been super easy to communicate and schedule with, have been available if we had a quick question outside of training, and the group classes have been SO helpful in desensitizing our pup with other dogs! We have loved their calm and steady approach to training!! Highly highly recommend!!!
— Emily Reader
Posted April 20th 2024
google
We have a Rottweiler puppy that came from a rough and tumble background and was struggling to feel secure in his new home. He had resource guarding issues, jumped on everyone he met, and didn’t like being groomed to the point that he would lash out. David helped us so much, and our dog Reuben is so much happier now that he feels secure in his environment. David is highly responsive at all times to his clients. Highly recommend!
— Samantha Rafalowski
Posted April 17th 2024
google
Dave is a fantastic trainer and a great guy. He is both a people person and a dog person who is able to train dog and owner both with sensitivity and humor. He can lead by example or watch as you try out new techniques. You won’t be disappointed.
— Sebastian Matthews
Posted April 13th 2024
google
I would give David a 10 if I could. He knows what he is doing. David, explained to me why my dog Hugo was doing certain behavior and then he helped Hugo and me do something different. When we got Hugo our neighbors said, oh no what did u do? Now, they say, wow is that Hugo? Who helped you? I tell everyone to use David at Dog Training ELITE Asheville!
— Mary Love
Posted April 1st 2024
google
I can’t recommend David and Nicole enough. I jokingly call David and Nicole the dog whisperers. From the first training we received they were so kind and helpful. They gave both me and my kids the skills needed to train Millie. She went from a very playful, chewing, stubborn puppy to a well behaved dog I feel comfortable having around other people. Their method of in-home training allowed me to watch them train Millie in her own environment, then they would watch me do the same to make necessary corrections, so that I could continue the same skills once they were gone. I have told every friend with a new (or old) puppy to call Dog Training Elite Asheville. You won’t regret it!
— Maggie Cantrell
Posted March 23rd 2024
facebook
Our Dog Hugo is a 70# Golden Doodle rescue, we are his 3rd home. He had issues barking, chasing cars, and being aggressive with a few of the male dogs in the neighborhood. He pulled me down a few times when we first got him. He jumped on one of my neighbors recently after she had a knee replacement and that was not acceptable. We have tried other local training facilities and Hugo didn't get much better. David and Nicole have made a huge difference in Hugo's behavior, and his quality of life. He actually has more freedom now because he knows what we are asking and he is eager to please. He enjoys the training we are doing and he seems happier now because we are able to take him more places with confidence. We are happier also. I like the approach they use in training. Treats are not used as the reward. Even our neighbors have noticed that Hugo is calmer and doesn't bark at them when they pass by our house. I am so pleased with the quality of the training. If you are a Veteran they give 10% discounts as well. I highly recommend Dog Training Elite of Asheville.
— Deb Love
Posted March 20th 2024
google
I would highly recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone. We began working with them last fall and our 1 yr old husky mix has transformed in ways that has been so good for her self-esteem and she is well on her way to beginning service dog training. She was overly submissive and did not know how to greet any new person or dog without rolling over in submission and not having confident boundaries. She now is able to perform all of her basic obedience commands and trust in her confidence when meeting new people and dogs. Because of Dog Training Elite, she is going to be able to help our family as a service dog and many others that she meets in the world! If you are considering using this company, go ahead and move forward now. You and your dog will gain what you want and a lot more!
— Sarah Hutchison
Posted March 17th 2024
google
We met the Dog Training Elite Asheville folks at the Apple Festival in Sept 2023. We were so impressed with their knowledge and their dogs onsite were trained and so well behaved...I kept the business card for when we would rescue a new dog. The time came and we have completed 5/6 training sessions and our 7 year golden lab rescue has gone from knowing only a couple of commands with no boundaries; barking; mouthing; etc., to a 180 of listening and obeying. At first we were a bit surprised at the cost BUT it's well worth the money. It's super convenient that they come to our home for our 1:1 sessions and then we work on our own with daily training. I would highly recommend them with five golden stars :)
— Christie Idehara
Posted March 11th 2024
google
We have a very reactive dog with massive anxiety. It was so bad that we couldn’t have people over to our house because the dog would viscously bark and lunge, and occasionally nip visitors. We worked with a few trainers who encouraged positive reinforcement with the use of treats and simple commands. Unfortunately, with our dogs demeanor and history, that method was ineffective. Within one meeting with David and Nicole our dog went from fierce growling, lunging, and muzzle punching to listening to our commands, and attempting to avoid the situation entirely. After two more sessions our dog was off muzzle, calm, and training easily. He now tolerates visitors to our house, and will quickly reverse course during a visit if he starts to become worried. We put our trust in David and Nicole and it truly paid off. I can not say enough good things about not only the way they train dogs and their humans, but also just how much they care about us and our dog.
— Elisabeth Herron
Posted March 11th 2024
google
Our Gracie Mae has turned into a totally different dog!! David and Nikki are so loving and attentive to not only Gracie but to us! I will forever recommend Dog Training Elite to anyone who needs help with their dog!!
— Lauren McCullough
Posted February 28th 2024
google
I had my dog Jude trained by 3 separate trainers before going to David and Nicki at Dog Training Elite. This is the first time that he is listening flawlessly without expecting a treat for the tasks. They are great with your dog and they treat you like family. Highly recommend anyone call them for your dog training needs!
— Paulette Brooks
Posted July 14th 2023
google
Nicole and David are phenomenal in helping me establish a loving and respectful relationship with Earl my puppy. I read the great reviews and contacted them BEFORE Earl came home. Nicole and David came the very next day and started me on this wonderful journey of creating a relationship with a puppy that will grow into a wonderful member of the Asheville community. With a warm expertise, they are teaching me what I must know so that I can bond with Earl in a way that Earl trusts me, has faith in my decisions and will consistently behave like a well mannered dog every where we go in the world. Nicole and David have such a professional manner whilst being generously making themselves available to answer my questions between sessions. I wish I had partnered with Dog Training Elite Asheville years ago. I strongly recommend the Platinum training package as your family and dog deserve the best opportunity to create a safe, loving and respectful environment for all. Thank you, DTE-AVL! We are grateful for you. Dedi & Earl
— dlwilliamson
Posted February 26th 2024
google
We used Dog Training Elite Asheville to help get our dog trained and registered as a therapy dog for our childcare business. We looked at all other dog training options in the area before settling on them. We felt really confident that they knew what they were doing and they did a wonderful job at helping us through the process. David and Nicole are always open and honest about where our dog was in the process and never made us feel like we were taking unnecessary steps in his training. Their therapy dog testing process is very thorough! We are so excited to be able to officially make Rigby a team member at the school and it is all thanks to David and Nicole!
— Rebecca Butler
Posted February 25th 2024
google
My dog, Abbey, had a lot of the basics down pat but was ready to do Service Dog and Therapy Dog training. David and Nicole have moved her through the training smoothly and easily. For every place I got stuck, they had a solution. The training is kind and positively reinforced without the constant trail of treats that leave the dog only performing for food in the hand. I saw new skills in Abbey very quickly each time they were introduced. She loves David and Nicole and looks forward to their arrival at our house for training days. I highly recommend them!
— Betsey Upchurch
Posted February 25th 2024
google
I cannot say enough amazing things about training with David! I told him I had to write a 12 hour miracle review. After adopting my pup in August, we were solely doing positive reinforcement training .. which actually led us to behavior issues while walking on the leash & in the house. We moved from out of state, which really stressed him out and escalated the behavior. Again, saw a behaviorist in the area with very poor results from solely positive reinforcement- it created a bratty teenage puppy. After our very first lesson with David, I didn’t even recognize my dog the next morning. That whole first week- overall SOO much better behaved. Our second lesson we worked on our sit stays with dropping the leash - before that I could never even imagined doing such a thing! It been 2 days since our second lesson and again I don’t recognize my dog in the best way. I’m 100% convinced this method of balance training and working with David is worth every penny. Bodhi was already a great dog, but now he’s even better!
— Michelle V
Posted February 24th 2024
google
I am incredibly satisfied with Dog Training Elite Asheville. David and Nicky have provided me with the tools, knowledge and skills to train my black lab, Olive. I have learned to safely and effectively use an E-Collar, it has been the best tool for training! Trust in David, Nicky and the Elite Dog training process. It has been worth every penny! I now have a well trained dog that I can take with me anywhere. Call them for a free in home consultation, you won’t be disappointed.
— J Hoy
Posted February 19th 2024
google
Best dog trainers does great with dogs. My dog went from nipping and jumping to calm and loving, and all around great personalities. Everyone wants their dogs train. Please get them trained by David and Nikki. They treat you like family.
— matthew Mel
Posted February 8th 2024
google
PLEASE READ TO INSURE HAPPY WELL TRAINED DOG My wife and I have always had dogs. After our 12 and 14 year old Portuguese Water Dogs passed away we waited for 4 years before bringing a Mini-Bernese Mountain Dog into our home. Being in our 70's we just weren't up to training a puppy. We sought individual training and the first several lessons were okay. Due to the energy of our 9 month old puppy, my wife and I were strongly encouraged to board our dog for a month for more intense training. This is not what our sweet, lively puppy needed. We did not agree with giving our dog away for 4 weeks for other people to do in essence what we need to do in our home. Not giving up and realizing how much in-home training made since, we called Dog Training Elite. Our first session was a wonderful experience for us as well as for our puppy. We have had only three training sessions and have experienced great growth in the behavior of our dog, Daffodil. The technics Dog Training Elite teach encourages the dog to want to please in a loving environment. We highly recommend the professional, knowledgeable methods of Dog Training Elite, Steve and Roslyn Seneker
— Happy Granpappy
Posted February 8th 2024
google

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Dog Training Elite offers expert in-home crate training puppy services near you in Asheville.

Why Should You Use Crate Training?

In addition to offering dogs a sense of peace and territory, crate training significantly speeds up the house-breaking process. Once a puppy learns that their crate is a safe place, or 'den', they will instinctively want to keep this area clean. During house-breaking, keeping your puppy inside the crate dramatically reduces accidents. Keep eyes and ears open to your puppy's bathroom signals and quickly bring him or her outside. This will help your puppy learn that outside is the place to go, not inside.

Crate training can also improve other aspects of your pet's life. A dog that is used to a crate will feel more comfortable when traveling and have a safe place to retreat during thunderstorms or noisy guests. At Dog Training Elite Asheville, we believe that crate training can enhance the lives of both dog and owner when done properly.

Additional benefits of crate training include:

  • General safety: Having your pup in their crate allows them to be alone while you are unable to watch them. Whether you are busy at home or out of the house, a crate training puppy can give you peace of mind that your pup is safe and secure.
  • Effective evacuation: In emergencies, crate training can save your dog’s life as a quick, low-stress way to evacuate.
  • Calmer vet visits: Should your pup be required to stay overnight at the vet’s, they will experience less stress and put up little resistance in their cage if they have been crate trained.

Proud Sponsor of The Malinois Foundation

At Dog Training Elite Asheville, we believe that Service Dogs save lives. It is our mission to make these life-saving companions available to our Veterans, First Responders, Women Survivors, and Children with Medical Needs. Whether it be for PTSD, Mobility Support, or Special Needs, Dog Training Elite Asheville works with the Malinois Foundation to heal and empower these individuals with a specialized service animal, a partner in life, and a new best friend.

Learn More

Is Crate Training Your Puppy Necessary?

While crate training is not necessary for housebreaking, it undoubtedly makes the process easier. Owners who choose to housebreak without the use of a crate will need more time and more patience when it comes to cleaning up accidents.

Crate training is also the safest option for keeping your puppy safe when unattended, protecting them during traveling, and limiting household damage with restless puppies.

When Should You Start Crate Training?

Crate training young, starting at about 8 weeks, is the best option for most pups and their owners. Keep in mind, though, that puppies under the age of 6 months should not be confined to their crate for more than three or four hours at a time. Allowing them to stay in the crate for too long will lead to a messy space, as young puppies are unable to control their bladders or bowels for extended periods. This also applies to adult dogs who are being housetrained.

Dog Training Elite has an award winning puppy training program in Asheville, including crate training for puppies.

Crate Training for Puppies
Tips From Dog Training Elite in Asheville


  • While crating is an important dog training process, your dog should not spend most of their time in a crate. We advise you to never leave your dog locked in the crate for more than two hours at a time.
  • If you must be away from home all day, it's best to drop your dog off with a friend so the crate does not become overly dirty and your pup isn’t confined to a small space for too long.
  • Crates come in different sizes, and some options can be adjusted as your dog grows to keep them comfortable.
  • When possible, leave the crate door open so your dog feels free to come and go.
  • Add a doggie bed, soft blankets, and plush toys so your puppy feels comfortable inside the crate.
  • Never use crating as a punishment — this will only teach your dog to fear the crate.

Dog Training Elite has award winning puppy training in Asheville with crate training classes for your pup.

Dog Training Elite Asheville includes tips and tricks for crate training in our puppy training programs. Our unique techniques based on the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning") ensure our program is a success no matter how much crate training experience your pup has.

If you are searching for a crate training puppy program in your local area, contact us today.

Pricing Programs Free Assessment

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Our Balanced Theory

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.


  • Empowering Owners
    We empower Owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
  • Personalized
    We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
  • Environment Specific
    We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
  • Supportive
    We support Owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
  • Involved
    We work with all members of the household.
  • Simplified & Customized
    We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
  • Continued Training
    Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
  • Lifetime Investment
    We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
  • Satisfaction Ratings
    Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.