Crate Training Tips For Goldendoodle Puppies And Cavapoos

Even puppies that did wonderfully here may need a few days to adjust.

Make The Crate A Positive Experience

Your puppy should learn that the crate is a safe and relaxing place, never a punishment.We recommend:Creating positive associations helps puppies settle much faster.

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Do Not Reward Barking Or Whining

One of the biggest crate training mistakes is letting puppies out while they are barking or whining. If puppies learn that crying opens the door, they will continue doing it. Wait for a calm moment before letting them out so they learn that calm behavior earns freedom. Consistency is extremely important.

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Avoid Long Crate Periods During The Day

Young puppies should not spend long stretches inside a crate during daytime hours. Most puppies can handle approximately 3–4 hours while young.If you will be gone longer, we recommend a playpen setup:

• An open crate inside the pen
• A turf potty area
• Safe toys and water

This gives puppies more flexibility while they are still learning bladder control.

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Covering The Crate Can Help Puppies Relax

Many puppies settle faster when their crate feels cozy. Place a blanket or cover over part of the crate, leaving one side open for airflow and visibility.

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Warmth For Comfort

Nighttime can feel lonely after leaving littermates. A warm Vogee Cow or soft blanket can mimic the comfort of cuddling. Ensure it is only slightly warm, never hot.

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Proper Crate Size Matters

A crate should not be oversized. If there is too much space, they may use one corner as a bathroom. We highly recommend a crate with a divider.Ideally, the crate should allow your puppy to:

• Stand up comfortably
• Turn around
• Lay down fully stretched out
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Keep Scheduled Crate Naps

Crate training should not only happen at bedtime. We strongly recommend 2 scheduled naps during the day after your puppy has gone potty, played, and burned energy.

‍General recommendations:

• Younger puppies: 2–3 hours
• Older puppies (6+ months): 4–5 hours if needed

Pro-Tip: Some families find the puppy settles better in another room so they don't wake up at the first sound of someone getting ready in the morning.

• Special treats only given in the crate
• A favorite toy
• A soft blanket with familiar smells
• Short nap sessions during the day

Sound Machines And Fans

Using a fan or sound machine creates calming background noise and reduces distractions that might wake a light sleeper.

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