* Choose a crate that will provide adequate space when your dog reaches his adult size.
* Use the divider panel to adjust the length of living area as your puppy grows.
* Acquaint your puppy with his new home. Start from early puppy hood and have your puppy sleep and rest in his home. He will begin to seek security and comfort inside his little 'dog room.'
* Be gentle. Encourage your puppy to go into his home. Don’t force him!
* Once he is comfortable with his home, simply restrain him at the door with the door, praising him lavishly. Soon he will be secure in his home with the door closed.
* Understand that little puppies need to 'go' about every 2-4 hours. On a schedule, (such as after feeding, before bedtime, first thing in morning) let your puppy out, teach him the route to the door, praise him at the door and take him out to the part of the yard you want him to use. Very quickly you are teaching him an elimination schedule that will stay with him for the rest of his life.
* Supervise your pup anytime he is free in your home. Supervision is what allows you to direct behavior.
* Never punish your pup by putting or forcing him into his home. Your pup’s home should be his secure place, it should not be associated with punishment, fear, or anything negative.