Crate training doesn’t have to feel like a chore—for you or your dog. In fact, when done right, a crate can become your dog’s favorite chill-out zone. But how do you make it a place of comfort, not confinement?
Enter crate games. These simple, playful exercises help build positive associations, boost training success, and make crate time feel like a reward. Let’s explore five fun crate games your dog will love (and learn from).
1. “Go to Your Crate” Cue Game
Goal: Teach your dog to enter the crate on command.
Start by tossing a treat inside and saying a consistent cue like “crate” or “go to bed.” Once your dog goes in, praise warmly—even before closing the door. Repeat until they start entering just from the verbal cue. Gradually increase time inside before release.
Training Tip: Only reward calm entries, not excited jumping or barking.
2. Crate Recall Challenge
Goal: Build responsiveness and enthusiasm for the crate.
With your dog a few feet away, say the crate cue and toss a treat in. Once they go in, mark the moment (“Yes!” or click), then call them out to you. Repeat back and forth for 2–3 minutes. Make it a mini recall game that ends in the crate.
3. “Treat Rain” Crate Jackpot
Goal: Reinforce crate stays with fun, surprise rewards.
With your dog lying calmly inside the crate (door open or closed), toss in 3–4 tiny treats every 10 seconds. Don’t say anything—just let the treats “rain” down. This creates a calm association and encourages your dog to stay inside voluntarily.
4. Crate Hide-and-Seek
Goal: Add novelty and mental stimulation.
Hide a favorite toy or chew inside the crate with the door open, then encourage your dog to “find it.” Once they get used to searching for items in the crate, it becomes a cozy place where good things happen—even when you’re not home.
5. Duration Game
Goal: Extend calm crate time gradually.
Once your dog is comfortable entering the crate, begin closing the door for short durations while they chew a toy or enjoy a treat. Slowly build from 30 seconds to several minutes. Open the door only when your dog is quiet to reinforce calm behavior.
Helpful Tip: Use stuffed KONGs or puzzle toys for mental stimulation during these sessions.
Game Guidelines for Success
- Keep sessions short and positive (5–10 minutes max)
- Never use the crate as punishment
- Always supervise your dog during early crate training
- Pair crate games with regular nap and downtime to reinforce routine
Final Thoughts
With a little creativity, crate training becomes less about confinement and more about confidence. These crate games help your dog view their crate as a safe, rewarding space—whether you’re heading out or winding down.
So grab some treats, a favorite toy, and let the crate games begin!
