Puppy Training
Crate Training for Australian Labradoodle Puppies in Anderson, IN | Pre-Started at Pickup
Our puppies start taking crate naps at about 4 weeks old, so they come home at 8 weeks already used to a crate. Your job is to keep it positive, keep it the right size, and keep a steady schedule.
What do we do before your puppy comes home?
Our puppies use a litter box from about 3 weeks old, which teaches them to go away from where they sleep. From about 4 weeks old, they take daily naps in a crate. By the time they go home at 8 weeks, the crate is a place to sleep, not a punishment.
That is a head start, not a finished job. Your puppy is in a new place with new smells, so expect a few adjustment nights.
What size crate should you buy?
The crate should let your puppy stand up, turn around, and lie down. Any bigger, and he can sleep in one end and potty in the other.
| Size | Adult weight | Crate |
|---|---|---|
| Mini | 15 to 25 pounds | About 30 inches |
| Medium | 26 to 50 pounds | About 36 to 42 inches |
A crate with a divider lets you start small and give him more room as he grows.
How long can a puppy hold it?
A common rule of thumb is about one hour for every month of age during the day. So an 8 week old puppy needs to go out about every 2 hours while he is awake. Puppies can usually go longer at night while they sleep.
What do the first nights look like?
- Put the crate near your bedHe has never slept alone before. Hearing you nearby helps.
- Give a last potty break around 10 p.m.Take him out right before bed, then straight back to the crate.
- Cover the crate with a blanketA darker, den-like crate settles a lot of puppies. Leave some airflow.
- Handle night wake-ups calmlyIn the first few nights, take him out if he cries. Keep it quiet and boring, then right back to bed.
- Stay consistentSame bedtime, same potty spot, same routine. Most puppies settle within a week or two.
What are the most common mistakes?
- A crate that is too big. Extra room becomes a bathroom.
- Using the crate as punishment. The crate should only ever mean rest and safety.
- Letting him out for crying after the first few nights. He learns that crying opens the door.
- Too many hours at a stretch. Puppies need regular breaks to potty, play, and be with you.
When is the next litter?
Puppies go home at 8 weeks old. Click here to see when our next litters are due.
Common questions about crate training
Should I crate train my Australian Labradoodle?
Yes. A crate gives him a safe place to rest, helps with house training, and keeps him out of trouble when you cannot watch him.
What size crate does an Australian Labradoodle need?
Most minis do well in a 30 inch crate and most mediums in a 36 to 42 inch crate. Buy one with a divider so you can make it smaller while he is a puppy.
How long can my puppy stay in the crate?
A common rule of thumb is about one hour for every month of age during the day. Puppies can usually go longer at night while they sleep.
Should I ignore my puppy crying at night?
Not in the first few nights. A young puppy may really need to go out. Take him out calmly, then right back to bed with no play.
Can I get a puppy if I work full time?
Yes, with a plan. A midday potty break from you, a neighbor, or a dog walker makes a big difference.
Want a puppy with a head start?
Our puppies come home used to a crate, sounds, and handling.
Related reading: how we raise our puppies with Puppy Culture and how pickup and delivery work.
Sources
- Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Indoor Pet Initiative. Crate Training.