Crate games for dogs: how to play

The crate door opens, and your dog waits inside until released. Builds a dog who loves the crate and can wait while excited.

You'll need

Your dog should already go in the crate happily. Sit next to it. Based on Susan Garrett's Crate Games.

Toss a treat into the crate. When your dog goes in, close the door and feed a few treats through the bars.
Start to open the door. If your dog moves forward, close it gently. If they stay, keep opening.
With the door open and your dog still, reach in and give a treat.
Say your release word ("Free" or "Break") and let your dog come out. Little or no treat outside: the good stuff happens inside.
Repeat 3 to 5 times. Then practise with you standing up, moving away, or tossing a toy outside.
End with your dog going back in for a final treat.

Make it easier: Open the door only a few centimetres at first, and reward fast.
Make it harder: Wait with the door wide open while you walk around the room, bounce a ball, or have someone ring the bell.

Your dog runs into the crate, waits with bright eyes, and bounces out on release.

Pacing, whining, scratching at the door. Back up to easier steps or work on crate comfort.

Don't close the door on a dog who panics in a crate. Work on crate comfort first.
Puppies: short sessions and frequent potty breaks.

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

Game · 5 min

Toss a mat on the floor and see how fast your dog can run to it and lie down. A fun way to build a strong 'go to your mat'.

Game · 3 min

Say your dog's name, mark when they look, reward. The quickest way to get a dog who turns to you on the first call.

Game · 5 min

Ask for cues in a random order, sometimes with a body clue to trick your dog. Teaches your dog to listen to the word, not your movement.