How to Crate Train an Adult Dog: Step-by-Step Guide

Adult dog training can be distinctly different from puppy crate training. While almost all puppies are naturally curious, some dogs are stubborn, unmotivated, or unmoving. So, I decided to follow up my how to crate train a puppy with a post on how to crate train an adult dog.

Last Monday, my terrier Pixie and I were visiting our friends, Amelia and her 3-year-old chihuahua, Hot Sauce. Hot Sauce may have been tiny, but she made up for it with her affinity for chewing up anything not put away—pens, shoes, the kids' toys, and the remote control. "It's getting out of hand." Amelia told me. "Last week, she chewed through the screen of my husband's smartphone."

"Oh no", I exclaimed.

"Punishing her doesn't work. It just makes her more destructive." I could see Amelia felt overwhelmed and needed a break. Hot Sauce could use one too.

Why Crate Training an Adult Dog

When I mentioned crate training for adult dogs like Hot Sauce, Amelia immediately objected. "It's cruel to crate an adult dog."

I could understand her reasoning and empathized. Crating can undoubtedly be misused. I then shared how crate training isn't about confining a dog. It can give an adult dog a sense of structure, ownership, and comfort. When presented to the dog correctly, this can stop destructive behavior.

Dogs instinctually like to make a home inside your home in smaller spaces for comfort, safety, and warmth. A crate can mimic a cozy wolf's den. It becomes their personal space where they can go when they feel sad, overwhelmed, or need some "me time".

On the human benefits side of things, crate training can:

• Reduce destructive behavior
• Make traveling easier since they're not afraid of the dog carrier or crate.
• Support house training. Dogs have a natural instinct not to poop where they sleep because.... gross. Crates can help a dog learn to "hold it" for a reasonable time.
• Alleviate anxious behaviors like excessive barking, whining, or growling.

Crate Training Basics: Setting the Stage

Before introducing an adult dog to a new crate, set the stage for a smooth crate training experience.

Pick the Right Size

The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably—but not so massive they can claim one end as a bathroom.

This wasn't too hard for Hot Sauce, the chihuahua. A small pet carrier was big enough for her.

For larger pups, you can get a wire crate for as little as $40-$60 on Amazon. This one from Midwest Homes gets excellent reviews.

You'll also find collapsable options, which I don't recommend for crate training because you want something that stays up and will last.

Make It Comfortable

Add a soft bed or blanket. Place the crate in a quiet but not entirely isolated spot in your home.

Leave the Door Open

Allow your dog to explore the crate at their own pace without pressure. It's important to realize that if you're training a rescue, they may already have a bad association with crates. Don't force it. If they don't check it out on their own, I definitely have some enjoyable ways to get them to try it.

Buy Some Treats for Crate Training

Before you start training get some high value dog treats to make the process run more smoothly.

I recommend something quick, tasty, and nutritious, like beef lung dog training treats.

But you also need longer-lasting dog treats, like marrow-filled dog bones, to encourage them to stay in the crate longer. I choose single-ingredient dog treats with no additives, preservatives, or added sugar. Dogs love beef, so these meaty, mouthwatering treats are perfect.

How to Crate Train an Adult Dog (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Make Formal Introductions

At this point, they've already been sniffing this spot out. And they may have even claimed it as their den without you doing anything.

But now it's time to guide them to the crate gently and build a command word around it. Let them walk beside you rather than carry them toward it.

Use a cheerful tone. Refer to it as their “room” or “den.” Let them watch you fluff up the blankets as you cheerfully discuss how cozy this space looks.

Toss a few treats inside or place a favorite toy near the entrance. Let your dog investigate freely without forcing them inside. If they go inside, let them walk back out several times so they feel free and capable of leaving anytime they want.

Step 2: Associate the Crate with Positivity

Encourage your dog to enter the crate and stay a while by placing a longer-lasting treat, like a single-ingredient grass-feed marrow dog bone inside. Praise them when they approach or step in, even if it’s only halfway.

If they take the dog bone out, don't take it away or chastise them. Try again in a couple of hours or the next day.

Step 3: Build Duration Gradually

Once entering seems second nature, encourage them to stay longer by feeding them in their crate. Put the food in the back of the crate so they must walk all the way in to get to it.

Close the door for a few seconds while they eat. Then open it again. Then, close it while they finish eating. As soon as they are done, open the door again. Try to open it before they start whining or trying to get out. You don't want to reinforce that behavior.

Gradually increase the time they spend inside with closed doors, rewarding calm behavior with treats.

Step 4: Teach the Go to Crate Command

Say "go to crate" or something similar but consistent in an upbeat tone when they walk into the crate on their own. Reward them with dog treats and praise.

Increase the distance from the crate, reinforcing the command and rewarding them when they enter it.

Eventually, you'll want to be able to say "Go to crate" from another room, and they know what to do. You can't give them a treat from the other room. But you can praise them, so they will still make a positive association.

Overcoming Common Challenges

Crate training adult dogs isn't all rainbows and roses. You'll run into challenges with most adults. Planning for them will allow you to respond most constructively so they learn faster and feel safe.

My Dogs Whines and Barks When the Crate Is Closed

Crate training does require the door to close sometimes.

Ignore attention-seeking behavior. Make sure their needs are met. Reward quiet behavior while in the crate.

My Adult Dog Won't Go in the Crate

Try enticing them with their favorite dog treats. Or give them a special treat they don't get very often. I like to smear a bit of peanut butter inside.

My Dog Has Separation Anxiety

They're fine when you stay by the closed crate and start whining when you leave the room.

Start with short periods and gradually increase the time away. Pair crate time with calming dog chews to reduce stress.

Dog Training for Happier, Healthier Pups

Training dogs to follow commands is great for both you and your furry friend. It builds trust and allows you to have a lot of fun together. If you'd like to learn more about dog training, why not check out this Free 7-Day Dog Training Challenge.

Available On: