🏠 How to Crate Train Your Mini Aussie Puppy

Bringing Home Your Mini Aussie – Part 2

Published by Mini Aussie Collective

Crate training is one of the kindest things you can do for your Mini Aussie — seriously. It creates a safe, cozy spot they can call their own, while laying the foundation for potty training, calm independence, and easier travel.

Done right, crate training becomes a gift for both of you.

🤔 Why Crate Train?

✅ Puppies need a quiet, secure space to sleep and rest

✅ It helps establish a potty training routine

✅ Prevents destructive behavior when unsupervised

✅ Makes travel and vet visits less stressful

✅ Helps ease separation anxiety over time

Safe, snug, and oh-so-loved. 💤 Every pup deserves a cozy den to call their own!

📦 Step 1: Pick the Right Crate

• Size: Big enough to stand, turn around, and lie down — but not big enough to potty in one corner and sleep in another.

• Style: Wire crates = airflow and visibility; plastic crates = cozier and great for travel.

• Location: A calm, social spot in your home (think corner of the living room, not the garage or laundry room).

Which crate fits your pup’s vibe? 🏠 Wire = airy + visible, plastic = cozy + travel-friendly. Choose wisely, little adventurer!

🛠 Step 2: Make It Inviting

Turn the crate into a cozy little den:

• Add a soft, washable blanket or crate pad

• Toss in a familiar toy

• Drape a towel over the top for a snug “den” feel

• Leave the door open so they can explore freely

Turning a crate into a puppy paradise: blanket ✅ toy ✅ den vibes ✅. Would you nap here too? 😍

🐾 Step 3: Start Slow & Positive

Associate the crate with good things only.

Day 1–2:

• Let your puppy explore at their own pace.

• Toss treats or feed meals inside with the door open.

Day 3–5:

• Start closing the door briefly during meals or chew sessions.

• Sit nearby and offer gentle praise.

• Gradually increase crate time while you’re home.

First step: explore! 👃🐾 Let your Mini Aussie discover their crate on their own terms — curiosity leads the way.

⏱ Step 4: Build Up Crate Time

• Begin leaving the room for short periods.

• Gradually extend the time.

• Always reward calm behavior with treats or praise.

⚠ Important: If they whine, wait until they’re quiet before opening the crate — otherwise, they’ll learn that crying = freedom.

Calm, cool, and crate-happy. 🐶✨ Reward the chill moments, and watch your pup’s confidence grow!

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using the crate for punishment

❌ Leaving your puppy in too long (puppies can hold it ~1 hour per month of age)

❌ Giving up because they “don’t like it” at first

Crate training rule #1: NO punishment zone ❌💛 Keep it positive and your pup will thank you!

🛌 Nighttime Tips

• Keep the crate nearby so your puppy feels secure.

• Expect to wake up for potty breaks every 2–4 hours at first.

• Try a white noise machine or heartbeat puppy toy for extra comfort.

Night-night, little one 🌙💤 Keeping the crate nearby helps your puppy feel safe — and makes midnight potty breaks easier!

✅ Quick Crate Training Checklist

✔ Crate fits your puppy comfortably

✔ Located in a calm, social part of your home

✔ Introduced gradually with positive reinforcement

✔ Used consistently for naps, bedtime, and downtime

✔ Never used for punishment

Checklist complete ✅ Happy pup secured ✅ Crate training = a win for both of you! 🐾💛

Up Next → How to Prepare for Your Mini Aussie’s First Day Home

Get your space (and your schedule) ready for the newest furry member of your family!