Crate training is recommended for housebreaking your puppy, and it is not mean to your puppy to have them in a crate. Crates are a safe space for your puppy that keep them from getting into dangerous situations when you aren’t around to supervise, like at bedtime and while you’re at work or school. Dogs are den animals who like to curl up in cozy, closed-in spaces; their crate is like their bedroom – a place they can go to feel safe and be alone. Housebreaking a puppy is much easier with a crate for both you and your puppy. You don’t like cleaning up accidents around the house, and your puppy can get stressed out by letting you down. Dogs like to keep their “den” clean, and will try to avoid accidents inside. This usually means they will be ready to go potty when you let them out, so make sure to take them where you want them to relieve themselves. Just remember, very young puppies can’t be left in the crate for more than a few hours at a time.