Crate Training Tips That Actually Work
At Shadalane Golden Retrievers, we know that bringing home your new puppy is one of life’s happiest moments — and also one of the busiest! One of the best tools to help your Golden Retriever adjust smoothly to their new home is crate training. When done properly, crate training isn’t about confinement — it’s about creating a safe, cozy space your dog can call their own.
Here are our top crate training tips that actually work — tested, trusted, and Golden-approved!
1. Choose the Right Crate Size
Your Golden Retriever should have enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably — but not so much space that they can use one end as a bathroom. For growing puppies, use a crate divider so the space can expand as they do.
2. Make It a Positive Space
Think of the crate as your pup’s bedroom — not a timeout spot. Add a soft bed or blanket, a favorite toy, and even a safe chew item. You can toss a few treats in the crate during the day to help your puppy form positive associations with it.
Pro tip: Feed your puppy their meals inside the crate so they see it as a happy, comfortable place.
3. Start Slow and Steady
Begin crate training by keeping the door open and allowing your puppy to explore freely. Once they’re comfortable going in and out, start closing the door for short periods — just a few minutes at a time. Gradually increase the time as your pup gets used to it.
Remember: Patience is key. Every puppy learns at their own pace.
4. Use the Crate for Naps and Bedtime
Puppies need plenty of rest, and the crate is the perfect place for that. Encourage short naps during the day in the crate, and use it consistently at night. This helps establish a routine and prevents nighttime wandering or accidents.
5. Don’t Give In to Whining
It’s natural for a new puppy to whine at first, but avoid opening the crate while they’re crying — or they’ll learn that whining gets them what they want. Wait until there’s a brief pause in the noise, then calmly let them out. This teaches self-soothing and patience.
6. Keep It Consistent
Crate training works best when it’s part of your daily routine. Use the crate at predictable times — during meals, quiet time, or when you leave the house for short periods. Consistency helps your puppy feel secure and understand what to expect.
7. Never Use the Crate as Punishment
The crate should always be a positive, comforting place — never a form of discipline. Using it as punishment can create fear or anxiety, making the training process much harder.
Final Thoughts
Crate training your Golden Retriever takes time, patience, and consistency — but the rewards are worth it! A well-trained dog who feels secure in their crate is happier, calmer, and easier to manage, especially during travel or transitions.
At Shadalane Golden Retrievers, we start introducing our puppies to crate time early, so they’re already on their way to success by the time they go home. With love and structure, your puppy’s crate will become one of their favorite places. If you are looking for crate options, we invite you to visit our products page.
