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Crate Training

Dog Training Elite Northern Central New Jersey

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A young dog receiving puppy crate training in Bridgewater / Westfield, NJ from DTE.

Dog Training Elite

Puppy Crate Training in Bridgewater / Westfield, NJ

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 Bridgewater / Westfield, NJ 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 Northern Central New Jersey

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 Bridgewater / Westfield, NJ 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.

Start Crate Training Today


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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 Northern Central New Jersey, 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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Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • Eve DelRio
    Dec. 4, 2024
    Patient, diligent, and professional. Kim had my puppy sitting and following commands after a single visit. I am looking forward to seeing the continued progress.
  • Matt
    Sep. 11, 2024
    The transformation in our dog's behavior after completing Dog Training Elite's program has been incredible. In just two short months, we've noticed a remarkable improvement without compromising his playful spirit. Kim and Marcus were exceptional trainers—always responsive, punctual, and warm with both us and our dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, don't wait—sign up for this course today! A huge thank you to everyone at Dog Training Elite for truly making a difference in our lives!
  • Matthew Williams
    Sep. 10, 2024
    The transformation in our dog's behavior after completing Dog Training Elite's program has been incredible. In just two short months, we've noticed a remarkable improvement without compromising his playful spirit. Kim and Marcus were exceptional trainers—always responsive, punctual, and warm with both us and our dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behavior, don't wait—sign up for this course today! A huge thank you to everyone at Dog Training Elite for truly making a difference in our lives!
  • Carly Raphan
    Aug. 7, 2024
    I cannot speak highly enough of my experience with the Dog Training Elite Northern Central NJ team! Trainers Kim and Marcus have made training such a fun and engaging experience for service dog, Layla, a 1.5 yo Cattle Dog mix — their passion and dedication in setting Layla up for success shines in every session we have. My bond with Layla has strengthened significantly and I’m so thrilled with how far we’ve come! Their expert knowledge, and enthusiasm for helping dogs while having a great time in the process is truly commendable. Thank you for your hard work and commitment in guiding Layla towards her fullest potential!
  • Elizabeth Dzuro
    Aug. 7, 2024
    Marcus with Dog Training Elite absolutely exceeded our expectations! He went above and beyond for us during our training and was always just a text message away if we had questions. He was professional, knowledgeable and so caring when it came to our pup! My dog is now so well mannered and understands all commands. I would recommend DTE to anyone!
  • Renee Auerbacher
    Jun. 5, 2024
    From the first training session I knew it was the right fit. Kim, our trainer, has been just what our black Lab Zoey needed. She has had great insight and really vested in our Zoey. When I say Zoey has come along way she has achieved the ability to know the commands, has had leash training and after just two sessions been able to heel and walk along grass and not be distracted like most 7 month old Labs are. She has introduced her to another dog which was her first socializing with others since she left her Mom and siblings. If you’re in need of a puppy to be trained look no further you have come to the right training program. Definitely 5 stars!!