1. Go Slowly

When introducing dogs, you should always go slowly. It may take time for your dog to warm up to another dog, especially if they are nervous. If at any point it seems as if either dog is becoming aggressive or very scared, stop the introduction process and try again later. It may take several short on-leash introductions before your dog feels comfortable with another dog. If your dog is aggressive or extremely fearful, you may want to seek help from your veterinarian or a certified dog trainer.

2. Ask For Help

It will take two adults to safely and properly introduce two dogs. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to a certified dog trainer, veterinarian, or veterinary behaviorist if you are having trouble introducing your dog to other dogs. Especially if your dog is aggressive, you should seek professional help to introduce your dog to other dogs to avoid the risk of harm to the dogs or the people involved in the introduction.

3. Meet on Neutral Ground

The best place to introduce your dog to another dog is on neutral ground.¹

Your dog may become fearful, protective, or aggressive if you introduce the new dog inside your house.²   Allow both dogs to meet outside your home or a park. It is best to choose a place where there are not many other dogs or people so your dog doesn’t get overwhelmed or distracted.

4. A Barrier Can Be Helpful

It may help to start the introduction with a chain-link fence or slatted wooden fence in between the dogs. This will give the dogs an added barrier in case they start showing signs of aggression or fear. The openings in the fence will allow them to smell one another and interact without fear of them getting into a fight. This added layer of protection is vital for successfully introducing dogs.

5. Keep Both Dogs on a Leash With an Escape Proof Harness

When you introduce two dogs, this should always be done with both dogs on a leash. This will allow you to be in control of the introduction. It can also be helpful to use a no escape dog harness to decrease the risk of one dog slipping out of their harness. The harness and leash can help you quickly end the introduction if necessary.

6. Take the Dogs for a Walk Together

If the two dogs seem to be getting along during the initial introduction on-leash at a neutral area with a barrier in between, you may be able to take them for a walk together. Find an area where you will be able to walk the dogs together with some distance between the two dogs. A walk can be extremely helpful because it allows the dogs the opportunity to become a bit more acquainted with each other while still being on-leash.

7. Read Body Language

As you go through this process, be very aware of both dogs’ body language and closely monitor the interaction. A happy dog will wag their tail and look comfortable and relaxed. If your dog’s hair is standing up or if they are growling, staring, or baring their teeth, this may be a sign that your dog is not comfortable with the introduction.³ If your dog exhibits any signs of fear or aggression, stop the introduction immediately and try again later or seek professional help.

8. Try a Short Off-Leash Interaction

If at this point, neither dog has shown any signs of fear or aggression and both dogs seem happy with one another, you might consider trying an off-leash interaction after your successful initial on-leash introduction. Keep the session short and closely monitor both dogs so you can quickly separate them if an issue arises.

9. If All Goes Well, You Can Try an In-House Introduction

For dogs that seem to get along well outdoors, you may be able to now introduce the two dogs inside. Hide any toys, food, bones, or treats so there will be no items to fight over. I also recommend placing a baby gate between the two dogs when you first introduce them together inside to make sure the dogs will still be comfortable interacting with each other inside. If both dogs seem comfortable, you can then try removing the baby gate and closely supervising the dogs.

What Should You Not Do When Introducing a Dog?

When introducing a dog, you should not immediately allow the dogs to interact off-leash. This gives you no control over the situation and will not allow you to easily stop the introduction if things aren’t going well. You should also not try to introduce two dogs by yourself. You will need someone else to help you with the introduction process.

Finally, you should never try to force an aggressive or fearful dog to meet another dog.⁴ If your dog is aggressive or fearful, it is best to avoid introductions with other dogs unless under the guidance of your veterinarian, veterinary behaviorist, or certified dog trainer.

Obviously one big issue related to sleeping is having a comfortable bed. We created a series of guides that you might find useful here, where we outline the best waterproof dog bed, the best outdoor dog bed, the best elevated dog bed, and the best sofa dog bed.

8 Vet Tips on How To Get a Puppy To Sleep Through the Night

1. Develop a Routine

The first step to getting your puppy to sleep through the night is to develop clear and consistent bedtime routines. Try to go to bed at the same time every night so your puppy understands when it is time for sleep. At the start, your puppy will likely be waking you up pretty early in the morning to go outside to potty. This is very normal for the first 4 to 6 months of age.

2. Bathroom Break Before Bed

It can help to take your puppy outside just before bedtime. Puppies have extremely small bladders so by taking them out to the bathroom right at bedtime, you will likely get more hours of whine-free sleep. You may even try taking them on a quick bedtime walk to make sure they pee and poop.

3. Lots of Exercise!

If your puppy just wants to play at bedtime, then they are likely not getting enough exercise during the day. Be sure that you are exercising your puppy for at least 20 to 30 minutes around 3 times per day. ¹Some high-energy dog breeds may need even more exercise than that! For exercise, you could play fetch in the yard, take your puppy for a walk, or just play with toys inside. Any kind of physical activity can help your puppy sleep better at night.

4. Mental Stimulation

A bored puppy will not sleep well at night. During the day, make sure you are giving your puppy mentally stimulating tasks. I recommend trying out interactive puzzle toys to keep their brain active. You could also try filling a Kong with their meals, or you could try another treat-dispensing toy.

5. Try Crate Training

You might be wondering “should a puppy be crated at night?” Some puppies will do better in a crate at night, but only if they have been properly crate trained. You should choose a heavy-duty crate that is easy to clean in case your puppy has an accident. Make the crate comfortable by adding a soft puppy bed or comfy blanket.

6. Give Them Something To Chew On

Right as you put your puppy to sleep, consider giving them a chew toy that will keep them occupied for a while. Puppies that are teething may appreciate having something to chew on during the night. Opt for safe chew toys that your puppy won’t be able to destroy. For puppies, I usually recommend soft Nylabones for puppies or Kong chew toys.

7. Midnight Potty Break

Puppies under 4 to 6 months of age will likely not be able to sleep fully through the night without having accidents. Most puppies can’t hold it for more than 3 to 4 hours, which means you will likely have to let your puppy out once in the middle of the night. If you know what time your puppy usually starts whining to go outside in the middle of the night, try setting an alarm 15 minutes before that time so you can let your puppy out before they start whining.

8. Consult With a Veterinarian and Dog Trainer

If you are still having trouble getting your puppy to sleep through the night, it may be time to speak with your veterinarian. There may be an underlying medical reason why your puppy can’t sleep through the night such as a urinary tract infection. A certified dog trainer may also be able to give you additional training tips. Some dog trainers may recommend training collars to train dogs. I usually do not recommend using training collars for puppies under 6 months of age, and in general, positive reinforcement is more effective for training a puppy.²

How long does it take for a puppy to sleep through the night?

Most puppies will not be able to sleep for a full 8 hours at night without needing to go to the bathroom. Puppies that are under 4 to 6 months of age usually have to go to the bathroom every 3 to 4 hours, so you will probably need to let your puppy out once in the middle of the night. Once your puppy is around 6 months of age, they should be able to sleep through the night without having an accident.

What do I do if my puppy wakes up at night?

If your puppy wakes you up at night about 3 to 4 hours after you go to bed, this means that they probably need to go to the bathroom. If they are waking you up more than 1 to 2 times per night, then they are probably just bored or want attention. If they are whining even after you take them out to the bathroom, try to ignore the whining. Don’t scold your puppy for whining because usually, this will make it worse.

How do you get a puppy to stop whining at night?

Puppies that whine at night usually want one of two things—a bathroom break or attention. Your puppy will likely need to go to the bathroom once or twice in the middle of the night. I typically recommend ignoring the whining if you know that your puppy doesn’t need to go outside to the bathroom. Usually, if you ignore the whining and don’t scold them for whining, eventually they will stop whining.

This article will discuss the best way to crate train a puppy and the keys to crate training a puppy.

The Best Way To Crate Train a Puppy

Step 1: Crate Orientation

The first step in crate training a puppy is to let your puppy become acquainted with the crate. Put soft blankets within the crate to make it look inviting. Leave the crate open at all times and let your puppy explore the crate. Never try to force your puppy into the crate. You can try throwing some treats into the crate to see if your puppy will enter the crate. Once your puppy seems eager to go into the crate on their own, you can move to step 2.

Step 2: Crate Playtime

Try playing with your puppy in the crate.¹ Throw his favorite toy into the crate or play tug of war with him. You may even consider buying your puppy a few new toys to play with in their crate. At this point, you want your new uppy to think the crate is a fun place to be.

Step 3: Crate Mealtime

Next, begin to feed your puppy meals in the crate. In the beginning, do not close the door to the crate during mealtime. Keep the crate door open so your puppy can still come and go as they please. Once your puppy seems content with the crate, you can begin to close the crate door during mealtime and open up the crate just before your puppy is done eating.

Step 4: Crate Trial

Your puppy should now associate the crate with food, treats, playtime, and toys. If your puppy still seems to enjoy the crate, try a trial run. Get several of your puppy’s favorite treats or chew toys and place them in the crate. After your puppy enters the crate, close the crate door. Leave your puppy in the crate for 5 to 10 minutes then let them out. If they begin whining, try not to let them out until they stop whining. If they still seem content with the crate trial, begin to lengthen the period of time in the crate to 20 to 30 minutes. Slowly work your way up to 1 to 2 hours.

Step 5: Crate Time!

At this point, you have moved slowly with the crate training process, and your puppy should think that the crate is a safe and fun place to be. You can now try to leave your puppy in the crate for 3 to 4 hours while you are out of the house. Remember that puppies have small bladders so you shouldn’t leave them in the crate for any more than 3 to 4 hours at a time.

Keys To Crate Training a Puppy

Be Patient

Many pet owners ask me, “How long does it take to crate train a puppy?” When crate training a puppy, you must be patient. Crate training can take weeks to months and will not work if rushed. The training process should be done gradually because if you move too quickly through the steps, your puppy could become frustrated and start to associate the crate with a bad place. Remember to stay positive and be patient!

Do Not React To Whining

Should you ignore a puppy whining in a crate? Yes, if your puppy is whining, do not scold them or let them out of the crate. Any attention is good attention for a puppy, so by scolding them you are actually making the problem worse. Try to ignore the whining and only let them out of the crate when they have stayed quiet for 10 to 15 seconds.

Remove Any Collars or Harnesses

If you use a collar or a no slip harness for dogs and want to leave your puppy in a crate unattended, make sure you have removed their collar or harness. These things can get caught within the crate grating, and I have heard of cases where puppies have been strangled to death because their collar got caught in the crate.

Do Not Punish by Using the Crate

The Humane Society of the U.S. recommends never using crating as a punishment for your dog.² If your puppy associates the crate with a negative experience, they will not want to use the crate at all.

Choose the Right Crate

You may be wondering how to choose a crate for your puppy. You will want to find a sturdy crate that can not be chewed up by your puppy. I usually recommend a metal crate when crate training a puppy. You can also consider

You will want the crate to give your puppy a little wiggle room, so be sure the crate is large enough for them to easily move around and stretch. We have resources for determining how big a dog crate should be, like our dog crate size chart. 

Additionally, you can also consider using an indoor dog house or an outdoor dog kennel, depending on your pup’s needs.

Keep It Short

You may also be wondering how long you can leave an 8 week old puppy in a crate. Ideally, to avoid accidents, you should never leave your puppy in the crate for more than 4 hours at a time. Puppy bladders are extremely small, so it can be tough for them to go longer than 4 hours without going to the bathroom. As your puppy gets older, you can begin to leave them in the crate longer, but at less than 8 weeks of age, I usually recommend letting them out at least every 3 to 4 hours.

Consult with Your Veterinarian and Trainer

If you are struggling with crate training a puppy, remember to consult with your veterinarian and trainer. Other tips and techniques may be recommended for crate training your puppy. Some trainers may instruct you to use a training collar. Although in general, positive reinforcement is better for crate training a puppy than using a training collar because you will want to be sure your puppy associates the crate with positive experiences.³ In addition, I do not recommend training collars for puppies under 6 months of age.

Our vet advisor, Dr. Addie Reinhard, DVM, selected the crates on our list. The Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate rose to the top of the competition with its high-quality, thick steel, and tamper-resistant dual locks. It’s the kind of crate you can leave your dog in while you’re at work without worrying about the condition the crate, your dog, or your house will be in when you get home.

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch, 22-gauge steel with welded stress points keeps dogs safe and secure.

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While this was Dr. Reinhard’s top choice, she also offers a series of her top tips for what to look for in choosing the best heavy-duty dog crate, a section on who should avoid purchasing them altogether, and she personally selected the best dog crates for a variety of specific use cases.

The Best 5 Heavy-Duty Dog Crates

1. Best Overall – Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate
2. Best Budget – Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate
3. Best Escape Proof – Impact High Anxiety Crate
4. Best Extra Large – MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy-Duty Dog Crate
5. Best Metal – ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

Heavy-Duty Dog Crates Compared

Here are the top picks from our veterinarian. Compare the ratings and features of different models.

*Ratings are on a scale of 1 to 5 and based on reviews, feedback, and opinions of actual customers

Who Should Buy a Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

• Owners of strong dog breeds – Some breeds like Pitbulls are known for their strength, and they can quickly tear apart a flimsy crate.
• Pet parents with a large dog  – Heavy-duty dog crates are helpful for trips to the vet, when company arrives, or when the dog needs a break.
• Pet parents of anxious dogs – Anxious dogs of any size can get destructive, and a crate keeps them safe and out of trouble while you’re away.¹

Who Should Not Buy a Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

• Small dog owners – While too large is better than too small, small breeds don’t need the same security or durability features as large dogs. However, if you’ve got a heavy chewer, some heavy-duty dog crates come in sizes that fit smaller dogs.
• Owners of calm dogs – If you’ve got a calm dog that’s more reminiscent of a sloth than a cyclone, you probably don’t need a heavy-duty crate.

Buying Guide: Research Tips From a Veterinarian

During veterinary visits, I often get asked by pet parents how to choose the best heavy-duty dog crate. These tips and tricks will help you select the best model for your circumstances and dog. A dog crate can be expensive, so it is vital to do ample research when planning your purchase.

Don’t forget to ask your dog trainer or veterinarian for their product recommendations. They’re better acquainted with your dog and can often be a great resource when shopping for a dog crate.

1. Steel construction – Steel-constructed frames are the sturdiest on the market. Avoid dog crates made of plastic or wood as they’re easily destroyed, especially if you have an anxious or mischievous pup. While some crates are partially made of steel, the more steel (as in all-steel), the more durable the crate.
2. Steel thickness – Thick, half-inch steel can withstand heavy biting and tugging. The thinner the steel, the more likely your dog will be to escape. Thin steel may also bend when chewed.
3. Sturdy hinges and latches – Often, a dog crate’s weakest points are the hinges and latches. Closely inspect the hinges and latches, looking for sturdy construction and quality materials that won’t buckle or bend when the dog puts pressure on them.
4. Size – Be sure to choose a crate size that’s big enough for your dog. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and stretch easily in the crate.² A 24 to 30-inch crate is a good size for a small breed. For large dogs, veterinarians usually recommend at least a 42-inch crate. When in doubt, a larger crate is better. For more, check out our Dog Crate Size Chart.
5. Collapsible – Collapsible crates can travel with you while you’re on vacation and store easily when not in use.
6. Adequate ventilation – If your dog will spend a lot of time in the crate, the crate needs excellent ventilation. Without proper ventilation, the dog crate can become hot, moist, and uncomfortable.³
7. Dual locks – Look for a crate with at least two locks, known as a dual lock system. A dual locking dog crate system offers better security for canine escape artists. The second lock can give you peace of mind that your dog will stay safe and sound in his crate until you return.
8. Wheels/casters – Heavy duty crates can be heavy, especially if they’re made entirely of steel. Models with wheels or casters let you more easily move the crate through your home.

Dogs don’t naturally know how to use a crate, so don’t be surprised if he needs some training before he’s comfortable.

How Much Do They Cost?

Between $100 and $600

The crate size and material make the biggest difference in the price. Heavy duty, all-steel crates typically start around $150 and can cost as much as $500 or $600 for extra-large sizes. Thick, half-inch steel tubing is found at the top of this price range. Thinner steel and collapsible models can cost less than $100, but you’ll still probably pay over $100 for a collapsible crate for a large dog.

Our Methodology: Why Trust Pet News Daily

As a veterinarian and large dog owner, I have ample experience with heavy duty dog crates, both at the veterinary hospital and at home. I selected these products based on my personal and professional experience.

My selection process involves careful consideration of key qualities and features, like sturdiness and material quality. I generated this list by selecting products from reputable brands and made sure they have a history of customer satisfaction. Finally, heavy duty dog crates need to last, so I chose crates that I believe could stand the test of time! – Dr. Addie Reinhard, DVM

The Best Heavy-Duty Dog Crate Reviews

1. Best Overall – Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Our Vet’s Top Pick

Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch, 22-gauge steel with welded stress points keeps dogs safe and secure.

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The Frisco Ultimate Heavy Duty Steel Dog Crate features sturdy half-inch tubing made of 22-gauge steel. It’s specifically designed for dogs who chew their way through the plastic and burst through thinner steel without an afterthought. The coated steel’s hammer-tone finish resists the rust that forms when chewers sink in their teeth. Stress points at the corners and edges are reinforced with welded seams.

The heavy-duty design extends to the dual lock system. Both locks are positioned so that dogs cannot manipulate them from inside the crate. If you’ve got an escape artist on your hands, chances are he will have met his match with these locks. In total, this heavy-duty crate weighs 103 pounds. However, it’s still maneuverable thanks to four casters/wheels on the bottom.

2. Best Budget – Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate

Best Budget

An expandable design lets you adjust the crate to fit your dog as he grows.

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The Frisco Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate offers security for rambunctious dogs without breaking the bank. It comes in seven sizes, so chewers and escape artists of all shapes will stay secure. The initial purchase includes a divider, so you can adapt the size as your dog grows. The largest five models also feature dual latches. A removable plastic pan offers easier cleaning, too.

This collapsible model offers security when you’re on the road. Weighing in at only 23 pounds, it’s portable and collapses for easy storage when not in use.

3. Best Escape Proof – Impact High Anxiety Crate

Best Escape Proof

Impact High Anxiety Crate

This tough crate is designed for destructive dogs, including those with severe anxiety.

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The Impact High Anxiety Crate protects pups whose anxiety can lead them to destroy their crates and harm themselves in the process. This intense design is made of thick aluminum. Aluminum’s strength rivals steel but with much less weight. Consequently, this crate is a great option for frequent travelers. It even includes airline rails for easier airplane transport.

The Impact goes well beyond a dual lock system with four butterfly latches that are unreachable for the dog. All the seams are welded, creating a single piece of aluminum. Each corner is reinforced with stackable corners. With all that security, it still includes 360-degree ventilation. Finally, a paddle slam latch offers secure control over entry and exit.

4. Best Extra Large – MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy-Duty Dog Crate

Best Extra Large

MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy Duty Dog Crate

This 54-inch dog crates fits some of the largest of the large breeds.

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The MidWest Solutions Series XX-Large Heavy-Duty Dog Crate comes in an impressive 54-inch size for large breeds like Great Danes and Wolfhounds. It features two doors, each with a triple lock system to help your dog enter or exit. Corner drop pins keep the crate secure after assembly.

Due to the size of the crate, it includes an L-bar safety feature that prevents the sides from bowing inward after assembly. That leaves the dog plenty of room to move around until you get home. Lastly, a moveable plastic tray provides access for easier cleaning.

5. Best Metal – ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

Best Metal

ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate

Half-inch tube made of 20-gauge steel keeps dogs in while you’re away.

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The ProSelect Empire Single Door Steel Dog Crate features half-inch thick, 20-gauge steel tubing with welds at the stress points. That kind of construction resists escape attempts and the anxiety of large, strong dogs. The dual lock system features latches that stay out of reach of your dog’s teeth or paws.

The hammer-tone coating and finish resist rust, corrosion, and bite marks. Cleaning is made easier with a removable steel pan. With all that steel weighing in at 75 pounds, you’ll need the four locking casters to move it around the house.

If you need a heavy duty dog crate and have a large dog, you may have other needs related to large dogs. If that’s the case and you’re in the market for a dog bed as well, you may want to check out our series of buying guides on that topic, including: our guide to the best large waterproof dog beds, our breakdown of the best large outdoor dog bed, our look at the best elevated dog beds for large dogs, or our guide to evaluating the best large dog couch.