Mastering Crate Training and Potty Training: The Ultimate Guide
Mastering Crate Training and Potty Training
You just brought home a fluffy, chaotic bundle of joy.
Everything's adorable — until your rug is no longer beige, and your slippers have seen things. Lets discuss how to Master Crate Training and Potty Training for your pup.
Potty training is one of the first (and most stressful) challenges for new dog parents. But here’s the secret weapon most people overlook:
Crate training + potty training = total game-changer.
Let’s look at how and why these two work so well together.
Why Crate Training Helps with Potty Training
Dogs have a natural instinct not to go to the toilet where they sleep. Crate training taps into this instinct by:
- Teaching bladder control in manageable intervals
- Encouraging your dog to hold it between breaks
- Creating a routine that supports fast learning
When done properly, crate training speeds up potty training dramatically — and helps avoid messy accidents all over your home.
Step-by-Step Potty Training with a Crate
1. Pick the Right Size Crate
It should be just big enough for your pup to stand, turn, and lie down — not large enough to toilet in one corner and nap in the other.
2. Create a Potty Break Schedule
Use age as your guide:
Puppy Age Potty Break Frequency
8–10 weeks Every 1–2 hours
11–14 weeks Every 2–3 hours
15–16 weeks Every 3–4 hours
6 months+ Every 4–6 hours
Always take your pup outside right after they wake up, eat, play, or come out of the crate.
3. Reward Like a Maniac (At First)
The moment they pee or poop in the right spot — praise, treat, celebrate like they just won Best in Show. Positive reinforcement is your best friend.
4. Use the Crate Strategically
Crate your puppy:
- When you can’t supervise
- For short rest breaks
- Overnight (with planned potty trips early on)
Then take them straight outside the moment they come out.
5. Be Patient (and Prepare for Accidents)
Even with crate training, accidents will happen. Don’t scold — redirect. Clean thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to remove scent triggers.
What Not to Do
- Don’t leave a puppy crated too long (they’ll have no choice but to go)
- Don’t use the crate as punishment
- Don’t skip nighttime potty breaks — especially in the first few weeks
Real Talk: It’s a Messy Miracle
Potty training is frustrating. But with a crate and a solid routine, you’re not just avoiding accidents — you’re building trust, communication, and lifelong habits.
You’ll be shocked how quickly your pup learns. And when you finally realize it’s been a week with zero puddles? Absolute bliss.
About Paws and Willow
At Paws and Willow, we create handcrafted wooden dog crates that help puppies and their humans feel more at home.
- Modular designs that grow with your pup
- Family-owned and Australian made
- Eco-friendly and stylish for your home
- Built by real dog people (with real potty training scars)
Ready to upgrade your pup’s routine?
Explore our Collection and bring calm, comfort, and style into your training journey.