Does Cesar Millan Believe in Crate Training Dogs?

Yes. Cesar Millan has recommended crate training as a way to give a dog a secure place and establish a predictable routine. The crate should be introduced calmly and used as a positive space, not as punishment. For your dog, the useful question is whether the crate supports safe, comfortable behavior without causing ongoing distress.

Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the crate. Measure your dog’s standing height and length before choosing one, and follow the manufacturer’s size guidance. For a growing puppy, an adjustable divider can keep the available space appropriate as they grow. Choose a sturdy crate with a secure latch and ventilation your dog cannot block by shifting against the sides.

Set the crate in a room where your dog can see ordinary household activity, and leave the door open at first. Place a few treats inside so your dog can enter and exit by choice. Once your dog walks in willingly, close the door briefly while you remain nearby, then open it before they become upset. Build duration gradually rather than using a long first session to test their tolerance.

A crate works best alongside exercise, bathroom breaks, training, and time with people. Give your dog a chance to relieve themselves before a crate session, especially if they are a puppy. A safe, familiar chew may help them settle, but remove anything they might tear apart or swallow. If your dog repeatedly panics, tries to escape, or injures themselves, pause crate sessions and seek guidance from a qualified trainer or veterinarian.

You do not have to crate your dog whenever you leave the room. A crate can help while a puppy is learning household boundaries or when you cannot safely supervise, while a dog who reliably rests in a dog-proofed area may not need one for every absence. Our team recommends choosing the least restrictive setup that keeps your dog safe. For a step-by-step starting point, use our practical guide to crate training your pup.