Crate training is one of the most valuable tools for raising a well-adjusted and confident puppy. Whether you’ve welcomed one of our Cocker Spaniel puppies in Brisbane or adopted a playful Spoodle (Cockapoo) puppy in QLD, learning how to use a crate correctly can set both you and your puppy up for success.

What is Crate Training?

Crate training involves teaching your puppy to see their crate as a safe, calm space—like a bedroom of their own. With positive associations, a crate becomes a place where your puppy can rest, feel secure, and manage new environments with confidence.

Easy Crate Training Steps

If you’re looking for easy crate training methods that work for young puppies, follow these simple steps:

1. Choose the Right Crate

Pick a crate that’s big enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down—but not so large that they can use one end as a bathroom. For growing puppies, adjustable crates with dividers work best.

2. Introduce the Crate Positively

Place the crate in a quiet, comfortable area. Leave the door open and encourage your puppy to explore voluntarily. Toss in treats or a favourite toy to help create a positive connection.

3. Feed Meals in the Crate

Start feeding your puppy their meals inside the crate. This builds strong, positive associations and encourages voluntary entry.

4. Close the Door Gradually

Once your puppy is comfortable eating in the crate, begin closing the door for a few minutes while they eat. Gradually increase the duration, always staying nearby and calm.

5. Reward Calm Behaviour

Keep the crate near you while you work on the computer or watch TV. Keep a plate of tasty treats nearby (we recommend cooked chicken). Whenever your puppy is settled and quiet, reward them with a treat.

Ignore whining and only reward calm, quiet behaviour.

Always wait for calm behaviour before opening the crate door.

6. Crate for Short Periods

Start leaving your puppy in the crate for short periods while you’re at home. Offer a chew toy or comfort item, and make your exits and returns as low-key as possible.

7. Use the Crate for Sleep and Rest

Crating your puppy at night or during nap times teaches routine, encourages rest, and supports toilet training by preventing nighttime accidents.

Benefits of Crate Training for Your Puppy

Whether you’re raising Cocker Spaniel puppies in QLD or Spoodle / Cockapoo puppies in Brisbane, crate training provides many long-term benefits:

• Supports toilet training: Puppies naturally avoid soiling their sleeping space.

• Reduces anxiety: The crate becomes a predictable, safe zone for your puppy.

• Creates boundaries: Prevents destructive behaviour and unsafe situations when unsupervised.

• Eases travel and vet visits: Crate-trained puppies feel more secure when crated outside the home.

• Fosters independence: Puppies learn to settle and self-soothe without constant attention.

Crate Training is a Gift for Your Family and Your Puppy

At Sirandi Poodles and Oodles, we believe crate training should always be gentle, consistent, and suited to your puppy’s unique temperament. Our Spoodle (Cockapoo) puppies in QLD and Cocker Spaniel puppies in Brisbane are introduced to crates from a young age, giving your family a head start on a smooth and successful transition home.

By investing time in easy crate training, you’re setting your puppy up for a lifetime of calm, confident, and happy companionship.