A complete step-by-step guide to crate training a puppy starting the first night you bring your new puppy home. How to avoid common crate training mistakes and ensure your puppy loves their crate.

Without the physical outlets she’s used to, these sessions are becoming the highlight of her day. They give her a sense of purpose, and they give me a dog who is mentally satisfied enough to settle afterwards.

SOLITARY MORNING This morning began a little differently from the usual routine. I woke up to an unexpected silence, feeling momentarily confused and disorientated as I reached for my glasses and checked the time—06.57 am. Just then, as if on cue, Fleck’s unmistakeable demand bark shattered the quiet. Only then did I remember that John was away house-sitting, leaving me in charge of the morning routine. I let out a groan, rubbed my temples, and shuffled out of bed, pulling o