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Set up a playroom

Troubleshooting | What to Expect

HOUSETRAINING 101: 0-3 months

Puppy crate training | Set up a playroom | Start housetraining


Overview

While housetraining, there'll be plenty of times you can't be around. For those long stretches while you're at work or school and otherwise living your life, your puppy will need a bigger space than a crate in which she can rest, play, and potty. Here's how to set up a puppy playroom.

Step-by-step playroom

    • Pick a corner in a family room or kitchen, preferably one with an easy-to-clean floor, and gate it off. The best room is one that isn't isolated from the rest of the house since you'll want your dog to continue to be exposed to household bustle.
    • Stock it well with a crate or dog bed and at least two food-stuffed chew toys. Some people also like setting up place to potty, or indoor toilet, when they know they'll be out for a while.
    • Put your dog in her playroom.
    • Gradually increase the time you keep her in the room.
    • Practice putting her in the room by herself at least once a day for a week, or until she's comfortable staying alone.
DogTime tip: Introduce the playroom on the day you bring your pup home, even if you aren't going anywhere. This will better prepare your puppy for the first day you have to leave her alone. Be sure to give her a stuffed chew toy every time you put her in her playroom.


Troubleshooting

If your pup won't calm down or stop barking or crying:

  • Feed her all her meals in her playroom until she learns to settle down quietly with a chew toy after meals, so she learns to associate the space with delicious good things.
  • Don't ever pick up your puppy or remove her from her playroom when she's crying and carrying on. Wait it out. Only when she pauses in her protest should you reward her with cuddles and play.

Note: Some pups do better if their playroom is closed off from the rest of household so they're not constantly reminded that they're penned up.

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What to expect

Your pup may whine at first because she can't reach you. But don't run to pick her up--she'll only learn you'll come get her when she whines. Do quietly reassure her with soothing conversation, and "that's okay's."