Biggest Crate Training Mistake New Puppy Owners Make (And How to Fix It)

by | Jan 12, 2026 | Goldendoodle Puppies | 0 comments

Crate Training Mistake New Puppy Owners

Crate training can feel emotional — especially the first time your puppy cries. Most new puppy owners think, “They’re sad… I should let them out.”
And while that reaction comes from a loving place, it’s actually the biggest crate training mistake you can make.

Let’s break it down — and show you what to do instead so your puppy learns to love their crate and sleep peacefully.

The Common Mistake: Letting Your Puppy Out When They Cry

You put your puppy in their crate.
They start to cry.
You let them out.

What your puppy just learned:
Crying = I get out.

Puppies learn fast. If crying works once, they’ll absolutely try it again. This can quickly turn crate time into a stressful routine for both of you.

What You Should Do Instead (Step-by-Step)

Before your puppy ever goes into their crate, set them up for success.

Step 1: Burn Off Extra Energy

Play with your puppy first. A short training session, gentle play, or a walk helps get those wiggles out so they’re ready to rest.

Step 2: Potty First

Always take your puppy potty before crating. This ensures crying isn’t because they genuinely need to go.

Step 3: Check for Comfort

Give your puppy a full-body rub. This helps you catch anything that could cause discomfort — a tangled collar, sensitive spot, or restlessness — and it reassures them emotionally.

Turning the Crate Into a “Happy Place”

Now it’s time to crate — the right way.

  1. Place your puppy in their crate

  2. Drop a treat inside

  3. Walk away calmly

This does two important things:

  • Redirects your puppy from “sad crate” to “happy crate where I get treats”

  • Teaches independence and self-soothing

You can turn on music, the TV, step outside, or even sit nearby and read a book. The key is not reacting to the crying.

The Hard Part (But the Most Important One): Wait

If your puppy cries, wait.

Don’t talk, don’t open the door, don’t engage.

Wait until your puppy:

  • Settles down

  • Becomes completely calm

  • Or falls asleep

Once they are calm, drop another treat into the crate and then open the door.

New lesson learned:
When I’m calm = I get out.

Why This Works So Well

Puppies thrive on clear cause-and-effect learning. This method:

  • Builds confidence

  • Encourages calm behavior

  • Prevents long-term crate anxiety

  • Leads to better sleep for everyone

Before long, your puppy will walk into their crate willingly and settle in with ease.

Final Thoughts

Crate training doesn’t have to be stressful. With consistency, patience, and the right timing, your puppy will learn that their crate is a safe, cozy place — not a punishment.

Try this method and let us know how it goes.
Happy training!