Is crate training your puppy turning into a battle of guilt, barking, and second-guessing? In this episode, I’m sharing practical and effective puppy crate training tips that will help you and your dog feel more confident and calm—without the chaos. The truth is, when done with patience and positive reinforcement, crate training a puppy is one of the most powerful tools for raising a calm, resilient dog. In fact, the benefits of crate training a puppy go far beyond giving yourself a break—it’s about teaching independence, creating structure, and supporting your dog’s emotional wellbeing. And if the idea of a crate still doesn’t sit right with you? No worries! I’ll also introduce several tried-and-true alternatives to crate training that can fit your lifestyle and still help your pup develop the crucial life skill of being okay on their own. Here’s what I’m covering in this episode:

• Why some puppies struggle more than others, and how to tell whether it’s normal whining or something more serious—plus the first puppy crate training tips you should try
• What most people get wrong about crate training a puppy, and the step-by-step approach that actually works
• How to replace guilt with confidence by understanding the real benefits of crate training a puppy
• The best-kept secrets for creating a positive crate association—even if your puppy already hates it
• When crates don’t work: 4 smart and safe alternatives to crate training (and how to know which one’s right for your pup)

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of why crate training matters, how to make it successful, and how to pivot if it just isn’t working for your household. Whether you’re using a crate or exploring alternatives to crate training, there’s something here for every puppy parent. Resources mentioned in this episode: But, My Puppy's Not Fully Vaccinated! Crate Training Tips for Your New Puppy! Connect with Staci Lemke: Website - www.mannersformutts.com Instagram & Facebook @mannersformutts