Crate Training Tips for large breed puppies
Last Updated: June 29, 2025
So, you’re about to welcome a big, cuddly, possibly clumsy large breed puppy into your home? Congrats! But let’s be honest—those paws are only going to get bigger, and so will the challenges. Crate training isn’t just about keeping your shoes safe (though, let’s be real, that’s a perk). It’s about giving your pup a cozy, secure den they’ll actually love.
Let’s get started, shall we?
Meet Your Growing Puppy: Why Size Really Does Matter
You know how kids outgrow their shoes before you even get used to tying the laces? Well, large breed puppies are like that, but on turbo mode. Think German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes—these guys can double their weight in a blink. The American Kennel Club calls anything over 50 pounds “large,” and over 90 pounds is “giant.” (Side note: I once fostered a Great Dane who thought he was a lapdog. Spoiler: He was not.)
But here’s the thing: Big dogs take their sweet time growing up. While little pups might be all grown up by a year, your gentle giant could still be a goofy teenager at 18-24 months. That means they need extra patience—and a crate that grows with them.
Mini-story:
My neighbor’s Mastiff puppy, Bruno, went from “tiny” to “how is that a puppy?!” in about six months. They learned the hard way that a too-small crate is like trying to fit into your high school jeans—painful and totally unnecessary.
Why Crate Training? (Hint: It’s Not Just for Your Sanity)
Ever notice how dogs love to curl up under tables or in cozy corners? That’s their denning instinct kicking in. A crate is basically a fancy doggy den, and for large breeds, it’s a game-changer. It keeps them safe when you’re not around, helps with potty training, and gives you a break from the “chew everything in sight” phase.
Quick tip:
Big puppies can do big damage. My friend’s Labrador once ate an entire couch cushion. The crate? Saved her sanity (and her furniture).
Choosing the Right Crate: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Size Matters (A Lot)
You might be tempted to buy the biggest crate you can find, but hold up! Too much space and your pup might turn one corner into a bathroom. You want a crate where they can stand, turn around, and stretch out—but not much more.
Here’s a handy cheat sheet:
| Adult Weight | Crate Length | Crate Width | Crate Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-70 lbs | 42″ | 28″ | 30″ |
| 70-90 lbs | 48″ | 30″ | 32″ |
| 90-110 lbs | 54″ | 35″ | 37″ |
| 110+ lbs | 60″ | 38″ | 40″ |
Types of Crates: What Works Best?
- Wire crates: My go-to. They’re breezy, easy to clean, and you can adjust the space as your pup grows. Plus, your pup can see what’s going on—no FOMO here.
- Plastic crates: Cozy, but can get stuffy for big dogs. Also, good luck wrestling a muddy Mastiff out of one of these.
- Soft-sided crates: Cute, but not for powerful chewers. Trust me, a determined puppy will turn it into confetti.
Setting Up the Perfect Puppy Palace
Location, Location, Location
Put the crate where the action is—but not too much action. A quiet corner of the living room or your bedroom is ideal. Avoid drafty spots or direct sunlight. Big pups can overheat or get chilly fast.
Mini-story:
I once put a crate near a sunny window in summer. My Golden, Max, turned into a panting, unhappy camper. Lesson learned!
Making It Cozy
- Bedding: Skip the fancy stuff for now. Old towels or washable blankets are perfect (and less heartbreaking when they get chewed).
- Toys: Go for indestructible (or close to it). Kong toys stuffed with treats are a hit.
- Comfort: A t-shirt that smells like you or their mom can work wonders for nervous pups.
The Step-by-Step Crate Training Plan
Week 1: Let’s Make Friends
- Door open, treats inside: Let your pup explore at their own pace. No forcing!
- Meals near the crate: Slowly move the food bowl inside over a few days.
- Short sessions: 5-10 minutes with the door open while you’re nearby. Praise and treats for calm behavior.
Week 2: Closing Time (But Not for Long)
- Door closed, short bursts: Start with 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Stay close and reward quiet behavior.
- Watch for stress: Whining or pawing? Take a step back. Slow and steady wins the race.
Week 3-4: Building Up
- Longer sessions: Work up to 30 minutes with the door closed while you’re home.
- Short departures: Once they’re comfy, try leaving for 5-15 minutes. Always come back before they get upset.
Bolded Highlights:
- Never force your pup into the crate. Make it a happy place.
- Consistency is key. Stick to a schedule for meals, naps, and potty breaks.
- Patience pays off. Big breeds take longer to train—think 4-6 months.
Sample Daily Schedule (Because Routines Rock)
Here’s a typical day for an 8-12 week old pup:
- 6:00 AM: Wake up, potty break, breakfast in crate
- 7:00 AM: Play and training
- 8:30 AM: Nap in crate (1-2 hours)
- 10:30 AM: Potty break, play
- 12:00 PM: Lunch in crate, nap
- 2:00 PM: Potty break, play
- 4:00 PM: Nap in crate
- 6:00 PM: Dinner in crate
- 7:00 PM: Family time
- 9:00 PM: Final potty break, bedtime in crate
Older pups (3-6 months):
They can handle longer crate times, but never more than their age in months plus one hour during the day. Overnight is different—they’ll sleep through.
Common Mistakes (And How to Dodge Them)
- Using the crate as punishment: Big no-no. The crate should be a safe haven, not a time-out spot.
- Leaving them too long: Big pups have small bladders. Accidents happen, and stress builds up.
- Giving in to whining: It’s tough, but if you open the door when they cry, they’ll learn that whining works. Wait for a quiet moment.
Mini-story:
My cousin’s Lab puppy whined nonstop the first night. She caved and let him out—cue three weeks of sleepless nights. Stick to your guns!
Feeding, Water, and Nighttime Tips
- Meals in the crate: Builds positive associations and helps with potty training.
- Water management: Remove water at bedtime to prevent accidents, but always have it available during the day.
- First few nights: Expect some crying. Keep the crate in your bedroom for comfort. You’ll both sleep better.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation: The Secret Sauce
- Pre-crate exercise: A tired pup is a happy pup. But don’t overdo it right before crate time—overstimulation is a thing.
- Mental enrichment: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and chew toys keep boredom at bay.
Quick tip:
Rotate toys to keep things fresh. Boredom leads to mischief, and big pups can do big mischief.
Troubleshooting: When Things Get Ruff
- Excessive whining: Check for potty needs, hunger, or thirst. Sometimes a blanket over the crate helps.
- Destructive behavior: Remove anything they can destroy. More exercise and mental stimulation usually does the trick.
- Accidents in the crate: Might mean the crate is too big or they’re left too long. Use a divider and increase potty breaks.
Health and Growth: Keeping Your Pup Safe
- Joint support: Big breeds are prone to hip issues. Make sure the crate has good padding.
- Growth monitoring: Adjust the crate size as they grow. Outgrown crates can cause anxiety.
Transitioning Away from the Crate
When your pup is ready (usually 6-12 months), start with short periods of freedom in a puppy-proofed area. Keep the crate around as a safe space—many dogs love their crates for life.
Breed-Specific Tips
- Working breeds (German Shepherds, Malinois): Need extra mental stimulation. Puzzle toys and training before crate time are a must.
- Giant breeds (Great Danes, Mastiffs): Grow super fast. Invest in adjustable crates and watch for comfort.
- Sporting breeds (Goldens, Labs): Love to please and respond well to positive reinforcement. Use their food motivation to your advantage.
When to Call in the Pros
If your pup is super anxious, aggressive, or just won’t take to the crate, don’t hesitate to call a trainer or behaviorist. Some pups have past trauma—professional help can make all the difference.
The Long-Term Perks
A well-trained big dog is a joy. They travel better, handle vet visits like champs, and always have a safe space when life gets overwhelming. Plus, you’ll sleep better knowing your shoes (and couch) are safe.
Ready to Give It a Go?
Start today by picking the right crate and taking it one step at a time. Remember, every pup is different—what works for one might not work for another. Be patient, stay consistent, and don’t forget to celebrate the small wins.
Give it a try and let me know how your gentle giant does!
And hey, if you’ve got a funny crate training story, I’d love to hear it—drop it in the comments!
