Having a puppy is such an exciting time! However, it also comes with many responsibilities, including providing a safe space for your pup when you can’t supervise them. Using a crate during the day can help with potty training and prevent destructive behaviors in those precious early months. But what exactly should you put in your puppy’s crate during the day to keep them comfortable, entertained, and safe?
Food and Water
Making sure your puppy has access to food and water in their crate during the day is very important. Provide a bowl of fresh water that can’t be tipped over and avoid placing food directly on the crate floor, where it may get soiled. Instead, use a no-tip bowl or interactive puzzle feeder. Freeze the food and water to help it last longer if your pup will be crated for an extended period of time. Only provide small amounts of water at a time to reduce chances of spills and accidents. Refresh and refill as needed when you return.
Potty Pads or Newspaper
Until your puppy is fully potty trained, lining the crate floor with potty pads or sheets of newspaper can help absorb any accidents and make cleanup easier. Replace soiled pads as needed. Once your puppy is consistently going potty outside, you can phase out the potty pads in their crate.
Puppy Pee Pads
Disposable puppy pee pads are a convenient option for lining your pup’s crate during the day. These ultra-absorbent pads soak up messes and contain odors. Look for thicker pads with a leak-proof backing to prevent spills. Always use pads designed specifically for pets, as alternatives like potty training pads for children may contain chemicals dangerous to your pup.
Newspaper
Lining your puppy’s crate with newspaper is a budget-friendly alternative to pee pads. Layer a few sheets thickly across the crate floor to absorb accidents. Replace newspaper as needed when it becomes damp or soiled. Avoid glossy printed ads, as the ink may stain your pup’s paws or fur. Simple black and white newsprint works best.
Bedding
Place a comfy blanket, towel or dog bed in your puppy’s crate to give them a cozy spot to curl up and nap. Avoid loose bedding they can shred or choke on. Wash bedding frequently to keep the crate clean and hygienic. You may need to remove plush bedding until potty training is complete.
Dog Crate Bed
Look for a dog crate bed or pad designed to perfectly fit the floor of your puppy’s crate. These beds provide padded comfort but are low-profile and durable. Many include waterproof bottoms and removable covers for easy washing. Orthopedic and memory foam crate beds relieve pressure on joints and growing bones.
Comforter or Quilt
An old blanket or lightweight quilt makes an ideal crate bedding for your puppy. Choose one that can be easily washed and won’t unravel if chewed. Fold it to provide cushioning under a removable top layer for accidents. Avoid heavy blankets that could cause your pup to overheat.
Washable Bath Mat
For a super easy and versatile crate bed, use a washable bath mat or no-slip rug pad cut to fit your puppy’s crate floor. These rubber-backed mats are waterproof and chew-resistant. Look for pet-safe materials free of harsh chemicals. Shake off hair and wipe clean between washes.
Chew Toys
Stuff your puppy’s crate with appropriate chew toys to keep them happily occupied in your absence. Good crate toy options include sturdy rubber chews, classic Kongs, teething toys, and interactive puzzle toys containing treats. Avoid toys with small, loose parts that could come off and be ingested. Rotate toys to keep things interesting!
Kong
No puppy toy collection is complete without a classic Kong. Stuff it with a portion of your puppy’s daily food and seal it with peanut butter to create a long-lasting chew challenge. The unpredictable bouncing keeps your pup mentally and physically stimulated for hours. Look for a puppy Kong sized appropriately for your dog’s age and breed.
Nylon Chew Bones
Durable nylon chew bones provide teething relief while satisfying your puppy’s urge to gnaw. Textured surfaces promote healthy chewing and help clean teeth. Flavors like bacon and peanut butter entice pups to continue chewing. Look for softer puppy bones your young dog can sink teeth into but not break off pieces.
Rope Toys
Woven cotton and fleece rope toys are a smart crate addition, as they floss dog teeth while being gently chewed and tugged. The fibers actually help clean teeth. Supervise your pup, as loose strands from unraveling ropes can pose a choking risk if ingested.
Teething Toys
Puppies love chewing cold surfaces when they are teething. Great teething toys for the crate include rubber ice keys, frozen rope toys and chilled chew bones. The combination of coldness and texture brings relief and comfort. Avoid hard plastic toys and anything that could shatter into sharp chunks.
Treat Dispensing Toys
Make your puppy work for kibble and treats by adding a ball or puzzle toy to their crate that dispenses goodies during play. Dispensing crinkle balls and snuffle mats are easy beginner treat toys to occupy your young pup and build mental stimulation.
Essential Supplies
In addition to food, water and comfort items, make sure to include these basic crate necessities:
- Collar ID tag with your contact information
- Leash to transport your pup safely to the crate
- Dog waste bags for quick accident cleanup
- Enzyme cleaner to eliminate odors that may encourage repeats
Avoid placing collars or harnesses in the crate, as they pose a strangulation hazard. Only use a collar ID tag for identification purposes in case your pup escapes.
Safety First
To keep your puppy’s crate a safe space, avoid including any unsafe items. Do not place:
- Dog crates or cages made before 2015, as these may have been manufactured with toxic finishes
- Loose toys and bedding that could cause choking/blockage if swallowed
- Heavy or weighted toys that restrict movement and rest
- Edible chews without supervision, as they pose a choking risk
- Metal bowls that may contain lead or sharp edges
The Right Size
Pick a crate that allows room for your puppy to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Potty accidents are more likely in an oversized crate. But don’t size down too much either. Measure your puppy and refer to sizing charts to find the perfect crate fit.
Pick Up a Puppy Pen
If your crate doesn’t come with a divider, pick up an adjustable puppy pen insert. This will save you from buying multiple crates as your puppy grows. Simply adjust the insert as needed to provide just enough room. Proper spacing will reinforce good potty habits.
Crate Location
Place your puppy’s crate in a familiar area near family activities, without being too isolated or confined. Puppies are social creatures and may get scared if their crate is tucked away. Easy access to outdoor potty areas is also key.
Try a Test Run
Once you’ve fully prepped your puppy’s crate with all needed items, do a test run while you’re home. Observe your pup entering and exiting the crate and watch for signs of stress or discomfort. This will help you identify any issues to address before leaving them crated alone.
Keep It Positive
Never use your puppy’s crate as punishment. Create a positive association by offering treats and praise for voluntarily entering and resting in the crate. Safe, rewarding crate time will set them up for success!
Schedule Potty Breaks
When crate training a puppy, adhere to a strict schedule of letting them out every 1-2 hours to relieve themselves. Puppies have small bladders and limited control. Frequent potty breaks build the foundation for good lifelong habits.
Reinforce Training
If your puppy has an accident in their crate, don’t scold or react negatively. Clean up calmly and make a note to take them out more frequently. Consistent, positive training is key for helping pups learn bladder control.
Nighttime Setup
Your puppy’s crate setup may differ slightly for overnight use. Place the crate in your bedroom for comfort and security. Add extra bedding and a snuggle toy. Remove collars, leave access to water, take up food. Remain patient at wake-up potty calls.
When to Stop
By the time your puppy is house trained and no longer chewing, you can stop crating them during the day. Make sure to properly crate train your pup first so it remains a safe space life-long for travel, boarding or vet stays.
Have Realistic Expectations
Crate training requires time and consistency from both pup and owner. Accidents in the early stages are normal. With positive reinforcement and patience, your puppy will become successfully crate trained for safety and comfort.
Conclusion
Preparing your puppy’s crate properly sets them up for success during the day while you’re occupied or away. Include potty pads, bedding, water, toys and essential supplies. Maintain safety with proper sizing and supervision. Place the crate in an ideal spot and positively reinforce training. With time, your pup will see their crate as a secure personal haven!