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THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO CRATE TRAINING

One Crate. One Dog.
Done Right.

Everything you need to set your dog up for success — from first introduction to full-grown companion.

THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO CRATE TRAINING

One Crate. One Dog.
Done Right.

Everything you need to set your dog up for success — from first introduction to full-grown companion.

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.

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a black lab puppy laying inside of their white crate looking up towards the sky making puppy dog eyes

Getting Your Dog Comfortable

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

Set Up for Success

a white stationary dog crate with a puppy divider installed sitting in the back of a truck
Puppy Divider

Adjust the crate as your dog grows. Start small, expand as needed.

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Dog Laying on Orthopedic Crate pad with the liner
Orthopedic Crate Pad

Comfortable dogs settle faster. Supportive foam for joints at any age.

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impact crate fan attached to the stationary crate with the side door attachment
Crate Fan

Airflow keeps them cool and calm. Clips right on.

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a white stationary dog crate with a puppy divider installed sitting in the back of a truck
Puppy Divider

Adjust the crate as your dog grows. Start small, expand as needed.

Shop Divider
Dog Laying on Orthopedic Crate pad with the liner
Orthopedic Crate Pad

Comfortable dogs settle faster. Supportive foam for joints at any age.

Shop Pad
impact crate fan attached to the stationary crate with the side door attachment
Crate Fan

Airflow keeps them cool and calm. Clips right on.

Shop Fan

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.

Will Atherton sitting next to a mastiffWill Atherton sitting next to a mastiff

Get Expert Guidance

For step-by-step instruction from a professional canine behaviorist, check out the Impact Crate Training Course by Will Atherton. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn case or just want to do it right the first time, this course has you covered.

Get the Course

Get Expert Guidance

For step-by-step instruction from a professional canine behaviorist, check out the Impact Crate Training Course by Will Atherton. Whether you're dealing with a stubborn case or just want to do it right the first time, this course has you covered.

Get the Course

Ready to get Started?

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