How to Train Your Dog to Love Their Crate (Yes, Even the Fancy One)

 

How to Train Your Dog to Love Their Crate (Yes, Even the Fancy One)

At BoulderBarks, we believe your dog’s crate should be more than just a holding space—it should feel like home. Our handcrafted, luxury dog crates are designed to blend seamlessly into your décor while providing your pup with a safe, cozy retreat. But no matter how beautiful the crate, the true magic happens when your dog wants to be there.

Whether you’ve got a brand new pup or a seasoned sidekick, here’s how to crate train the gentle, supportive way—so your dog not only accepts their crate, but actually loves it.


Step 1: Start With Positive Associations

Dogs thrive on association. If the crate only shows up when you leave the house or when it’s bedtime, it can quickly become a negative space. Instead, introduce the crate as a cool new hangout.

Tips:

  • Leave the crate door open and toss in a few treats.

  • Place your pup’s favorite toy or a soft blanket inside.

  • Praise them every time they voluntarily go near or inside the crate.


Step 2: Feed Meals Inside the Crate

This is a game-changer. Dogs rarely dislike the place where they get fed! Begin by placing the food bowl near the entrance of the crate, then gradually move it further back.

If your dog is hesitant at first, don’t force it. Let them build confidence at their own pace.


Step 3: Make It Cozy (And Make It Theirs)

This is where a BoulderBarks crate truly shines. Our luxury crates are designed to feel like a safe den—crafted with calming materials and aesthetic charm that matches your home.

Add a comfy bed, familiar-smelling items (like a worn T-shirt), or calming sprays made with lavender or chamomile to help create a sense of comfort and security.


Step 4: Use Short Stays to Build Trust

Once your pup is confidently entering the crate, start closing the door for short periods while you stay nearby. Gradually increase the duration, always rewarding them after each session.

The goal is for your dog to understand that the crate isn’t about separation—it’s about relaxation.


Step 5: Make the Crate a Daily Habit

Use the crate consistently for quiet time, naps, or even just a midday wind-down. When a dog learns the crate is their personal “safe space,” it becomes a sanctuary—not a punishment.


Bonus: Don’t Rush It

Every dog is different. Some take to their crate right away, others need a little more patience. If your dog shows resistance, take a step back and revisit the earlier steps. Building trust is a marathon, not a sprint.


The BoulderBarks Philosophy

We design dog crates with care, but we know it’s the experience that turns them into sanctuaries. That’s why we encourage gentle training techniques rooted in respect, comfort, and connection.

Because your dog deserves more than a crate—they deserve a home within your home.


Want help choosing the perfect crate for your dog’s size, personality, and style? [Order your free swatches here] or reach out—we’d love to help you create the coziest corner for your pup.


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