Size It Right From Day One
Your dog needs room to stand, turn around, and lie down — nothing more. Too much space and they'll use one end as a bathroom. Too little and they're cramped.
If you're starting with a puppy, buy for their adult size and use a Puppy Divider to section off the space. Adjust it as they grow. One crate, zero upgrades.
Getting Your Dog Comfortable
Let Them Explore
Set up the crate in a common area. Leave the door open. Drop treats, a favorite toy, or a shirt that smells like you inside. Let your dog check it out on their own terms — no pressure, no forcing.
Build Positive Associations
Start feeding meals near the crate, then inside it. Treats go in there. Good things happen in there. Your dog should start seeing the crate as their spot, not a penalty box.
Short Stays, Door Closed
Once they're eating comfortably inside, close the door for 5-10 minutes while you stay in the room. Keep it calm. Gradually increase the time as they settle in.
Time Alone
Leave the room for short stretches. Start with a few minutes, build to an hour or two. A tired dog handles this better — exercise them first.
Establish the Routine
Same spot. Same schedule. Dogs thrive on consistency. Whether it's overnight or while you're at work, predictability reduces stress.
What Works Best
Right-size the space.
A crate that's too big invites accidents. Use a divider if you're starting with a puppy.
Make it rewarding.
Treats, meals, praise. The crate should mean good things — never punishment.
Take your time.
Rushing the process creates setbacks. A few extra days of patience saves weeks of problems.
Tire them out first.
A well-exercised dog settles faster. Burn energy before crate time.
Stay consistent.
Random schedules create anxious dogs. Pick a routine and stick to it.
Why It Works
✓ 60% thicker aluminum than standard wire crates
✓ Lifetime Dog Damage Guarantee on High Anxiety models
✓ Trusted by K9 handlers, trainers, and working dog owners across all 50 states
This isn't a crate you'll replace. It's the last one you'll buy.
