Some people may not like the idea of putting a Puggle in a crate, thinking they would never put a member of the family in one. But, a Puggle is not a child; and a crate simulates a "den" that dogs use in the wild.

The most talked about new method of training dogs is crate-training. More and more dog owners and their pets are learning the benefits of starting puppies on crate training as soon as they arrive in their new home.

Dogs like to have a safe, snug place to retreat to. Used properly, a crate can be enjoyable to your Puggle, giving him a place to go when he needs some quiet time. your Puggle can be in the room with the "pack" while not bothering the guests. Crates can be used in travel and are a requirement of public transportation such as air travel.

Crate-training is the use of a plastic airline crate or a wire cage to confine a puppy when the family is not home or is unable to supervise the puppy's activities. The crate, in effect, becomes the puppy's bed.

The key to crate training is time. Do not rush. Do not get mad or frustrated. You want your Puggle to go in voluntarily. To begin the training, take off the door of the crate or tie it open. You don't want to spook your Puggle by having it slam shut.

Type and Crate Sizes :
There are two basic types of crates: a plastic "airline kennel" and a wire cage. Each has certain advantages. The plastic crates are usually more portable than wire cages and are more "cozy" for the animal. Wire cages typically have more width and height space than plastic cages of approximately the same size.

The ideal situation for housebreaking is to use a size crate that is 2 times the puppy's body length and big enough for the puppy to stand-up, turn around, and lie down in. However, for most people, it is not feasible to purchase new crates as the puppy grows.

The best alternative is to buy a crate that will be large enough for your dog when he grows up. As an adult, the dog should be able to lie down comfortable on his side as well as stand, sit, and turn around without difficulty.

For housebreaking a puppy, the crate should can be made smaller by using a partition (made of a safe substance) or a divider panel to limit space. If the puppy has too much room, he will eliminate in one area of the crate and sleep in another, thus increasing the time it takes to housetrain the puppy.