🐾 How to Crate Train a Puppy – The Posh Poos Step-by-Step Guide
Pictured is our Heritage Stripe Crate Bedding, SHOP ALL POSH POOS CRATE BEDDING
Crate training isn’t about restriction — it’s about giving your puppy a space of their own. When styled thoughtfully, a crate becomes a cozy, calming retreat that supports sleep, structure, and confidence — not just for your puppy, but for you too.
At Posh Poos, we believe a dog crate should blend beautifully into your home while also feeling like the safest, softest place in the world to your puppy. With the right setup, a crate becomes their den — their instinctual hideaway — where they can truly relax.
Why Crate Training Matters
Your puppy is naturally drawn to enclosed, quiet spaces. It's how they feel secure. A thoughtfully styled crate creates this environment — a den-like space where your puppy can unwind, nap, or reset.
With our crate sets, you're not just training a puppy — you're creating a comfort zone that:
- Supports toilet training
- Encourages healthy nap routines
- Reduces overstimulation and overtiredness
- Helps your puppy feel safe when alone
- Promotes a peaceful, calm home rhythm
- Looks beautifully styled in any room
Not sure where to start? Our Posh Poos Crate is available in 24", 30", and 36" – perfect for puppies and small to medium adult dogs.
The Essentials for a Luxury Crate Setup
1. Posh Poos Silver Dog Crate
This beautifully finished crate is the foundation of your setup — strong, clean, and timeless in silver. With front and side doors and smooth zinc-coated bars, it’s a durable base for building a cozy haven.
Crate training starts with giving your puppy a space they feel is truly theirs.
2. Heritage Stripe Crate Cushion – Grey
The moment your puppy steps inside, this soft, plush cushion invites them to curl up and rest. Tailored to fit perfectly inside the crate, our mattress transforms the cold crate base into a cloud-like retreat.
- Extra padded for joint comfort
- Cover removes for easy washing
- Elegant heritage stripe fabric suits any neutral or modern space
The right bedding makes the crate feel like a bed — not a cage.
3. Heritage Stripe Crate Cover – Grey
More than just decor, this soft fabric cover makes the crate feel enclosed and den-like — something puppies instinctively seek. Our roll-down flaps help block out visual distractions, light, and drafts, making it the perfect nap space.
- Machine washable
- Breathable, neutral fabric
- Roll-up sides for flexibility
- Helps puppies settle at bedtime
If your puppy struggles to settle or whines at night, this is often the missing piece.
4. Crate-Safe Puppy Toy
To complete the setup, we recommend one safe, soft toy inside the crate — something they can cuddle or gently chew. It adds reassurance and routine to rest time.
A Calm Daily Crate Routine
Here's an example of how to structure crate time around your puppy’s natural rhythm:
| Time | Routine |
|---|---|
| 7:00am | Wake, potty, short playtime |
| 8:00am | Breakfast followed by nap in crate |
| 10:00am | Supervised play and bonding time |
| 11:30am | Midday nap in crate with cover partially down |
| 2:00pm | Calm enrichment or short walk |
| 3:00pm | Afternoon nap in crate (door open or closed) |
| 6:00pm | Dinner and free time |
| 8:00pm | Wind-down, toy time in crate |
| 10:00pm | Bedtime – crate closed, lights low, cover down |
The goal isn’t to keep your puppy in the crate — it’s to make them love returning to it.
Crate Training at Night
Nighttime is when the crate truly becomes their sanctuary. Dim lighting, soft bedding, and a covered crate create the calm conditions your puppy needs to settle. Keeping the crate in your room early on helps with reassurance and toilet breaks. Over time, your puppy will start sleeping through — happily tucked into their den.
Common Questions
Q: Will my puppy cry in the crate at first?
Yes, and that’s normal. The key is consistency, comfort, and positive association. Never use the crate for punishment — it's their happy place.
Q: Do I need a cover and mattress, or is the crate alone enough?
Bare crates are cold, noisy, and uninviting. Think of bedding and a cover as essentials — they change how your puppy feels about the crate.
Q: Can I use the crate as part of my interior style?
Absolutely. Our Heritage Stripe crate sets are designed to complement a calm, elegant home. Functional, yes — but never an eyesore.
Shop the Full Crate Training Collection
Final Thoughts
Crate training isn’t about rules — it’s about reassurance. With a well-styled setup and loving guidance, your puppy will come to see their crate not as a barrier, but as a haven.
Still unsure? We’re here to help. Contact us anytime at sales@posh-poos.co.uk for crate advice and support.