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Crate Training

Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro

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A young dog receiving puppy crate training in Austin, TX from DTE.

Dog Training Elite

Puppy Crate Training in Austin, TX

Crate training for puppies helps your dog develop a sense of security. Crates appeal to a dog’s natural instincts, offering them a safe, familiar area to relax and retreat when needed.

Crate training also plays a key role in housebreaking. 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.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer expert puppy crate training in Austin, TX to help guide you through the process. Our trainers work with you to help your puppy become comfortable with their crate and use it as a positive training tool.

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Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro

Crate Training Tips

Crate training is a valuable tool when done correctly, but it's important to follow best practices to ensure your dog remains comfortable and secure. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of crate training.

Avoid leaving your dog in the crate for more than two hours at a time to prevent discomfort and ensure they don’t associate the crate with confinement.
If you’re away for long periods, consider leaving your puppy with a friend or in a safe area where they have more room to move.
Choose a crate that fits your puppy’s size, or use an adjustable crate to accommodate their growth and ensure ongoing comfort.
Leave the crate door open when possible so your dog can enter and exit freely, helping them feel more at ease with the space.
Add a soft bed, blankets, and toys to make the crate a cozy, inviting space your puppy will enjoy spending time in.
Never use the crate for punishment—this can create fear and negative associations with the crate instead of security.
A puppy looking up at its owner during crate training in Austin, TX with DTE.

Why Should You Use Crate Training?

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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, 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 trained 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.

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.

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Two well-behaved puppies after training in their crates.

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Crate training helps puppies feel secure by providing them with a safe and comfortable space of their own. It also speeds up housebreaking, reduces accidents, and prepares your puppy for situations like vet visits or travel. When done right, crate training fosters a sense of security and builds healthy routines.

At Dog Training Elite in Austin Metro, we’re here to support you and your puppy throughout the crate training process. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a well-trained and happy pup!

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You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

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Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • William Crist
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Training with Gray is a great experience for us and Bailey. We are looking forward to the group training in the coming weeks. Dog Training Elite Hill Country is a great outfit and I recommend they to anyone who is concerned about their Dog's behavior.
  • Jim Whitmire
    Dec. 2, 2024
    I recently brought a 4 year old, 80lb Labrador home. Everything was great until we attempted the stairs in my home. He had never been up or down stairs before. With some encouragement, he was able to make it up the stairs on his own. The problem started when I tried to get him down the stairs... :) Understandably, he was very nervous to attempt going down the stairs. I tried encouragement, treats and even pulling him with his leash with no success. It was late on a Sunday evening and I was very concerned that I wouldn't be able to get him downstairs. I had called at least a dozen different resources for help with no success. I was grasping for straws when Donny from Dog Training Elite returned my voicemail. He was very calm, polite and professional. He walked me through how I needed to take a leadership role and coached me through the steps w/ my dog. In less than 15 minutes, I was able to successfully walk my dog down the stairs w/ great relief! I've been continuing to work w/ him and now he's going up and down the stairs with more confidence each time and i expect he'll be doing it on his own soon. I want to thank Donny for helping me AFTER HOURS on a Sunday evening in a desperate situation. I highly recommend this company!
  • Alina Ruse
    Nov. 17, 2024
    These guys are incredible, super sweet but firm. They really do care and take the time to answer your questions. They are straight to the point and don’t sugar coat anything. If it weren’t for my young German Shepherd’s training here I’d be in a very bad situation and having to give up a dog I love. About 6 months ago I moved into an apartment with my small child and still going strong! There were a few hiccups getting the dog adjusted to a completely different living situation and our trainer was easy to get a hold of and issues were fixed on the spot! I would recommend this company to everyone total life changers.
  • rebecca price
    Oct. 6, 2024
    I love Gray's patience and knowledge of my dog breed. His type of training allowed us to work through some issues. Thank you agray.
  • Jake North
    Sep. 26, 2024
    Have really enjoyed working with Donny and team both individually and in group classes with our Aussie. Dog Training Elite put together a customized plan to work on Badger’s areas to improve and her behavior is sooo much better. Donny was available both in and out of session to answer questions and encourage us when things were tough. Lately, Badger has been joining the Saturday group classes to continue to socialize and grow. We couldn’t be happier with the results and wholeheartedly recommend DTE for your dog.
  • Shipra Singh
    Aug. 24, 2024
    Mia is amazing!
  • Tim Sweeney
    Jul. 28, 2024
    Before Donny and DTE Austin while walking my dog Khalifa if I saw another dog coming towards us, I would move into a driveway or a yard to let them pass. After the first class with Donny I was actively looking for dogs to walk by on the sidewalk. Donny taught me how to have confidence to walk Khalifa by any dog. Fast forward five weeks, we've completed our 5 private lessons and both Khalifa and I are enjoying our walks together. She makes better decisions, is more relaxed, and I no longer have anxiety while walking my dog. Choosing DTE will be the best decision you make for you and your dog. The moment you meet Donny, see how professional he is and how positively your dog responds, you will know you made the right decision. You're the best! Diane & Tim
  • Kris and Ally Nessa
    May. 25, 2024
    We cannot express enough how grateful we are to have found Dog Training Elite Austin. From our very first session, we knew we were in excellent hands. Our dog, Olivia, has made incredible progress thanks to the expertise and dedication of Donny, the outstanding trainer and owner. Donny's deep understanding of dog behavior and his patient, positive training methods has made our first experience as dog owners wonderful! Donny's passion for what he does shines through in every interaction. He is always professional, encouraging, and genuinely invested in Olivia's success. It's clear he loves what he does, and his enthusiasm is contagious. We always look forward to our training sessions, knowing that Olivia is in the best possible hands and meeting plenty of furry friends along the way. Thank you, Donny and Dog Training Elite Austin, for helping us build a stronger bond with Olivia and for giving her the tools to thrive. We highly recommend Dog Training Elite Austin to anyone looking for top-notch dog training services!
  • Greg Harisis
    May. 12, 2024
    Donny is the man! I love my 4.5 yr old shelter pup, but I could not get him to stop barking at every door knock or new visitor as our family got ready to add a baby to the mix. Within 5 weeks, not only is the excess barking pretty much a thing of the past (it’s on me to be a good trainer and get him the last 5% if the way), he’s also a much better walker/heeler, does better interacting with other dogs, and is much more calm in general. Thanks Donny!
  • Carlea Brown
    Apr. 29, 2024
    I wish it were possible to give more than 5 stars. We have worked with DTE Austin since bringing home our puppy in September. Between September and April, we have seen our puppy transform from being nervous on walks and a destructive girl inside to being confident off leash and a joy in our household. Donny does a great job of caring for your pet, but also making sure that you have the resources to train them properly. Donny does a wonderful job of making himself available at all times. We have called and texted him more times than I can count with questions or updates on how our girl is doing. While this program is a big investment, both financially and in time, it is SO worth the commitment.
  • Austin Hendrix
    Apr. 28, 2024
    Fantastic experience all around. Thorough, detailed, helpful, insightful, and willing to adapt to any experience your dog brings to training
  • Douglas Tenny
    Apr. 24, 2024
    We are so glad that we chose Dog Training Elite Hill Country to help us train our young golden doodle. Gray really knows dog training. He is patient, understanding, and knowledgable. He is like the "dog whisperer". When someone can get your dog to do something in a minute that you have spent an hour on you know you have hired the right person. We knew that the training would include come, sit, down, heel, but for our dog "place" was an unexpected, much used benefit. Gray gave us a systematic approach that could be used to train and even re-train with. It was all done with sensitivity and kindness. Denise was very good at the communication side also. She made it easy and fast to get appointments and answer questions.
  • Julia Olsh
    Apr. 23, 2024
    Gray and Denise with DTE are awesome! They helped my pup overcome his anxiety tremendously, through giving us literally step by step instructions on how we can work with him. They are super patient and understanding people. I would highly recommend!!!
  • Jessica Bookman
    Apr. 7, 2024
    Donny completely changed my relationship with our puppy, Kobe. He was a big, energetic, Lab puppy who outweighed both my kids by 4 months old. I was at the end of my rope and Donny was so empathetic and understanding. He came in and showed me that Lab puppies can be calm in the chaos, and can be well trained while young. He has taught us so much in such a short period of time. I tell everyone with a dog that they need to meet Donny. He is amazing!
  • Julia Low
    Apr. 7, 2024
    Dog Training Elite is simply outstanding! From the moment we began training with our corgi Leo, they treated us like family. The staff is incredibly supportive and kind, and their trainers are top-notch. They took the time to understand Leo's needs and provided us with invaluable guidance. Thanks to them, Leo has made remarkable progress. We've recommended Dog Training Elite to friends and family because we couldn't be happier with the results. Five stars all the way!
  • Max
    Apr. 6, 2024
    A 5-start rating is not accidental. Donny is one of the best trainers I’ve ever worked with. Definitely the best in Austin area. I was a bit hesitant in the beginning because of the use of e-collar but with some education, patience, and trusting the process now I realize it was the best decision for both me and my dog. I strongly recommend hiring Donny. He will not disappoint.
  • Stephanie Bomely
    Mar. 23, 2024
    Donny has been absolutely amazing! He gained our trust during the free evaluation, and we were very excited to work with him. During the 4 weeks of training, he did not disappoint. He taught our two dogs (4 yo terrier/poodle and 9 mo terrier/chihuahua) practical skills, which gave us and our dogs more confidence, and he helped us all be less anxious. Donny is extremely knowledgeable and had solutions to every unwanted behavior. He was patient with us and took the time to answer every question. He has given us a new life with our dogs!
  • Lea Campbell
    Feb. 25, 2024
    After months of attempting different forms of training for our 7 month old Golden Retriever, Molson - my partner and I both felt we had reached our wits end with the constant biting, pulling and jumping. We were told by other programs he was just stubborn and defiant and that couldn’t be changed. I was constantly scouring the internet for any advice on training dogs with similar personalities, but always ended up completely hopeless. After a referral from a friend, we got in touch with Dog Training Elite (Donny) and from the first visit, we immediately saw a change in his demeanor. After fives weeks, we’ve been absolutely blown away by the progress he’s been able to make. Molson now confidently walks on and off leash by our side, plays with other dogs/people and we’ve been able to build trust that has allowed him to truly be a dog. We cannot thank Donny enough for his dedication to Molson and the confidence he’s brought us in training, it’s truly been invaluable.
  • Alyssa R
    Dec. 15, 2023
    I am proud to say that Dog Training Elite is my 4th and final dog trainer. Persistent, aggressive and dangerous were all words that have been used to previously describe my dog, Elton. Strangers now approach us regularly, complimenting on how well-behaved he is. Before discovering DTE, I had invested time and resources in training Elton since he was four months old (he is now 2). Despite my best efforts, his reactivity and aggression seemed to worsen over time. After a negative incident at a dog park, his reactivity heightened, causing extreme stress for both of us. Taking him outside, even for a simple potty break, became a source of anxiety due to his unpredictable behavior. My anxiety only seemed to feed his, but after numerous trainers I thought I was out of options. We resorted to tailoring our schedule to avoid potential incidents in my apartment complex, and I honestly thought making our world a little smaller was the only way to protect him and others. Choosing DTE was a turning point. From the initial consultation call with Donny, I felt supported and heard. Instead of recommending avoidance strategies suggested by other trainers, Donny outlined the goal to bring Elton to "neutral" outside and towards other dogs (his main triggers). He even said by the end of in-home sessions, Elton would be riding in elevators with other dogs (I honestly had trouble believing this one). After the phone conversation, Donny provided an in-person consultation, and he remained confident in Elton's ability to succeed. In just a few weeks of weekly home visits and trusting the training and guidance, there were significant improvements. Elton began looking to me for direction, and walks became more enjoyable. Previously, he made decisions on walks, driven by fear. Now, he was heeling more, walking safely off-leash at times, and sitting by a busy street in a down position. Instead of avoiding triggers, I began to seek them out for practice (passing dogs, bikes, etc). Over time, I was building trust in myself and Elton, because DTE empowered me with the control and confidence leading to these major improvements. DTE's approach goes beyond dog training; they deeply understand both dogs and humans, and worked patiently with me to build confidence in myself and my dog, providing me tools to feel confident and calm in situations that were previously stressful and frightening. They were there every step of the way. In just a few weeks, they surpassed my expectations and ultimately Elton took an elevator ride with two other dogs - completely calm. The group classes haven't even started yet, and I can't believe how far we've come. For anyone dealing with a reactive dog, the stress of avoiding triggers can take a lot of energy. The trust I’ve built in myself and Elton has been one of my biggest achievements, thanks to the tools and support from DTE. Thank you Donny for making this incredible impact on our lives.
  • Jeanne Henley
    Dec. 8, 2023
    Gray was awesome! Our minature Aussie is either a genius or Gray just knows how to train a dog. I would vote for Gray!!! We would highly recommend this company!! Steve and Jeanne Henley Ingram, Texas