What to Put In a Crate For a Puppy
Anyone who has ever needed to crate train a puppy has wondered, "How do I make it more comfortable for my little friend?". Puppies are very energetic animals. They need a lot of attention and care, but at the same time, they can be pretty mischievous if left alone for too long. So it's important to crate train your puppy.
The crate is an easy way to confine your pet to protect him (and your home), while still allowing them some freedom while you are away from home or busy working in another room. This article will tell you what to put in a crate for a puppy to create a comfortable space for your pup.
Your Puppy Should Have Enough Space
Your pup's crate should be large enough for your puppy to lie down, turn around, and stand up. Not only will a small crate be uncomfortable, but it can also cause your puppy to feel trapped and anxious.
Your dog will become accustomed to their new crate more easily if there is ample space for them to move about without getting into trouble or feeling unsafe during those first few weeks at home with you. Further, as they begin to grow their space needs will grow as well. It’s more economical and practical to ensure you’ve got plenty of space for pup in the first few years of their life.
Crate Training Gets Easier With Time
As a dog owner, you might want to look into crate training your puppy. It’s not as difficult as it may sound and can be very helpful in the long run.
Crate training is a method of housebreaking that involves restricting your dog to a small space where they are unable to eliminate. Dogs are naturally clean animals who don’t like soiling their bedding or areas where they sleep, so if you confine them in an area where they cannot relieve themselves, they will eventually learn not to go in that area when left alone.
This is especially helpful for potty training pups with weak bladder control or even senior dogs with the same; crating them when no one is home allows them time to adjust their schedules and go potty on their own terms without creating an accident in the process.
The first few nights of crate training can be challenging as puppies who are not used to being in a crate may whimper to come out. It is hard to hear your little fluff-friend cry, but crate training will be better for you both in the long run.
Knowing what to put in a puppy crate at night will make your puppy as comfortable as possible. A soft crate bedding and some toys will be helpful. Also, ensure that the dog's crate itself is chew-proof so he's not escaping when you're asleep. When you let your pup out for a potty break, make sure to give him lots of love and praise!
Include Basic Items to Comfort the Animal
If you're crating more than one animal, you'll want one that has a divider so that your dog can have its own space from the other pet if necessary. The best material for this purpose is polyester because it's easy to clean and prevents rusting on metal cages or pens. A crate cover is also a great idea, as they help keep your pet warm and comfortable. You can get these types of covers at most pet stores or online. They come in a variety of sizes so be sure to measure your dog's cage before you purchase one so that it fits properly.
If you're using a soft-sided carrier or crate, it's important to make sure that your dog doesn't overheat. You can do this by placing a towel or blanket inside the carrier, as well as offering plenty of water.
If you're using a puppy crate that's made of acrylic, plastic or fabric, it's important to make sure it has plenty of ventilation, such as the ones featured on ShopHiddin. Some crates come with mesh windows or doors on the front and back sides so your pet can still see what's going on around them while they're inside.
How to Prepare the Crate for a Puppy
The first step in preparing your pup’s crate is to make sure it’s safe and secure.
- The opening should be large enough for the puppy to enter and exit easily, but not so big that the dog will have trouble turning around inside it. This can make him feel trapped, which could make him nervous or aggressive.
- The frame must be sturdy and chew-proof, especially if he's a teething puppy!
- The walls should be high enough so that your pup cannot climb out when he gets older. A good rule of thumb is to be able to stick two fingers between the walls and floor of your dog's crate at chest height without them getting stuck or scraped by wire mesh panels —this way they'll have plenty of room without needing any additional padding besides their own fur!
A Plastic Crate Liner Makes Cleanup Easier
Plastic crate liners are a good idea, especially if you're planning on using the dog crate for travel. They'll keep your puppy's dog bed and toys in great shape, and they'll make cleanup easy when you're done using them.
A Soft Blanket or Towel For Crate Time and Naps
Soft bedding or a snuggly blanket can be a nice option to comfort your puppy while he is inside the crate. In addition to being safe and easy to clean, crate bedding or blankets can also keep your pup warm during the colder months.
You can also use a soft towel instead of a blanket. Make sure it is not too big so that it can't get caught on anything inside the dog crate. If your puppy is still cold, another option is to cover his entire crate with a blanket or crate cover to keep him cozy without running the risk of getting stuck or tangled in the blanket or towel directly.
Play Soft Music During The Daytime
Drown out other noises. The background noise of soft music, like a radio or an audiotape of house sounds, will help distract your puppy from any other noises in the house. This can be especially helpful if you have children or other pets who tend to make lots of noise. It's also soothing for puppies when new situations are going on around them since they may feel more secure with something familiar nearby.
Include Dog Toys
A comfort toy would be a great addition to your puppy’s crate, as it will help them keep calm while they are confined. Dog toys are also a great way to keep your puppy occupied. They encourage him to think and help him learn that crate time is fun. Plus, they will give him mental stimulation and stop him from chewing on things around the house. While chew toys are a must for any dog, make sure that the toy you are leaving your precious pup with is not a choking hazard.
A puzzle feeder is a fun way to keep your puppy occupied while you're away from home. You can fill it with food or treats to keep your dog entertained for a few hours while also ensuring your new puppy doesn't go hungry while you're away.
Another toy that helps puppies relax is a stuffed animal (usually a dog) with a heartbeat. It mimics a real heartbeat, so it is very comforting for pups who tend to get anxious when their owner is away. Stuffed toys like these are especially helpful to put in a dog crate at night.
Puppies Learn to Love Their Crates When You Make a Proper Space For Them
Since your puppy will be spending a lot of time in the dog crate, it's important to make sure he's comfortable. Dog crates should provide security and safety for your dog so that he can feel at home and relax when he's in there.
The way you set up the inside of the dog crate is important too. The sides should be about two feet high or less so that your puppy can get plenty of air circulation and see what's going on around him or her. You'll also want to put some soft bedding in there like blankets or towels so that it feels nice under their feet when they're lying down, but not so soft as to make them sink into it (this could cause health issues).
Conclusion
If you want to make your puppy feel more comfortable in his new home, a dog crate can be an effective tool. It will also serve as an important resource if you ever need it for potty training or other life skills later on down the road!
The best way to use a dog crate is as a safe haven for your puppy, not some kind of prison. Make sure he has plenty of toys and chewable items in there so that he doesn't get bored. And don't forget to take him out regularly so he can go potty! The key to crate training is consistency. Your puppy will be more likely to feel comfortable in his new space if you consistently place him there at the same time every day.
If you have any questions or concerns about crate training, or for some stylish crates that are safe and comfortable for your little friend, please check out ShopHiddin. You can also check out our sleek and sophisticated acrylic playpens, gates, feeders, and more!