what to put in a puppy crate

2 min read 24-12-2024

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time! A crate can be your best friend during house training and providing a safe, comfortable den for your furry friend. But what exactly should you put inside to make it inviting? Let's dive into creating the perfect puppy crate setup.

Essential Crate Items for Your Puppy

Your puppy's crate should be more than just a cage; it should be a haven. Here's what you'll need:

1. Comfortable Bedding

A soft, washable bed is a must. Avoid fluffy, plush materials that can be shredded or ingested. Look for durable, machine-washable options. Consider these options:

Orthopedic Dog Beds: Great for older puppies or breeds prone to joint issues.
Elevated Dog Beds: Provide good air circulation and prevent overheating.
Durable Fabric Beds: Easy to clean and relatively inexpensive.

2. Chew-Resistant Toys

Puppies love to chew! Provide a few safe, durable toys to keep them entertained while crated. Avoid anything small enough to be swallowed. Great options include:

Nylabones: These are tough, long-lasting chew toys that can help satisfy their chewing instincts.
Kong Toys: These can be stuffed with treats or frozen for extra fun and enrichment.
Rope Toys: These are good for chewing and fetching, but supervise your puppy to ensure they don’t swallow large pieces.

3. Water Bowl

Always have fresh, clean water available. A sturdy, non-tip bowl is ideal. Consider a heavier ceramic or stainless steel bowl to prevent spills and accidents.

4. Potty Training Pads (Initially)

If you are crate training, you'll likely use potty pads initially. Place them in a corner of the crate to encourage your puppy to eliminate in a designated spot. Remember, the goal is to transition them to going outside completely eventually.

Optional but Beneficial Crate Accessories

These additions can enhance your puppy’s crate experience:

Crate Cover: Offers a sense of security and reduces anxiety for some puppies. It can also help block out distractions.
Puppy Training Treats: Reward good behavior and make crate time positive with small, high-value treats.
Frozen Kong: A frozen Kong filled with peanut butter (xylitol-free!) or other appropriate dog treats is a fantastic way to keep your puppy occupied and entertained for a while. Make sure to supervise for safety.
Chew-Resistant Blanket: A soft, comforting blanket can make the crate feel even cozier. Ensure it is also tough enough to withstand a puppy's vigorous chewing!

What NOT to Put in a Puppy Crate

Avoid these items:

Anything small enough to be swallowed: This is crucial to prevent choking hazards.
Valuable items: Your puppy may chew on anything left unattended.
Toxic materials: Keep chemicals, cleaning supplies, and human medications well out of reach.
Excessive bedding: Too much bedding can be a choking hazard or provide a place to eliminate away from the designated potty area.

Creating a Positive Crate Experience

Remember, positive reinforcement is key to crate training success. Make crate time fun and rewarding. Start with short sessions, gradually increasing the duration as your puppy gets more comfortable. Never use the crate as punishment. Instead, focus on making it a safe and inviting space for your new companion.

By following these tips, you can create a comfortable and safe haven for your puppy, ensuring happy and stress-free crate time for both of you!