YES! One of the most useful devices for raising a puppy is a fold-up wire dog crate. This device can aid in housetraining puppies. It can also save hundreds of dollars in damage to household items. Since the crate is portable, it can easily be taken along on trips. This makes overnight visits or vacations with the family pet more enjoyable. People who raise, train and show dogs have been aware of the benefits of crates for years. We prefer the kind of crate that folds up like a suitcase, made by MidWest. A large or extra large is good for a male, and a medium is generally good for a female. We also prefer the ones with a door on the side and on the end. These are VERY convenient. And they make great nightstands!

• The crate should be large enough for an adult dog to stand and turn around unimpeded. A wire cage is recommended for proper ventilation and so it can see. Rottweilers don't care for the "airline" approved type of crate, because they tent to retain heat. The only exception I have made to that rule is with a dog that gets car sick. I have found that if they can't see out, they won't get sick. (And keep water away before the trip as well)
  

• Assemble the crate and place it in the bedroom or in a living area. Better still, have 2 crates, one in the bedroom and one in the dining room or living room. It may be helpful, however, to put the pup in the garage for the FIRST night or during the day for an hour or so, so the baby learns his howls won't be answered.
  

• Introduce the pup to the crate by placing several treats in and around it. Also, feed the pup several meals inside the crate. Remove collar and tags to prevent possible entanglement. Usually the pup settles quietly in the crate after three to eight attempts at emotional responses.
  

• While the pup is inside the crate, provide one chewable toy.
  

• ANY collars or leads MUST be removed to prevent entanglement.

By the time bedtime arrives, the pup has associated being quiet with being inside the crate. Also, the effects of separation are lessened because of the crate being in the bedroom where a family member sleeps.

As soon as the pup wakes up it will want to eliminate. It will probably whine or bark, since dogs tend to avoid eliminating in their bedding areas. The pup can then be taken outside to eliminate immediately. Success!

This procedure has several advantages:

• The pup does not form the habit of eliminating in the house.
  

• The pup can be placed in its "den" when it cannot be watched during the day.
  

• The separation reflex is reduced curtailing possible side effects related to stress. 
  

• A pup who has been successfully crate-trained will prefer its "den", As the pup matures, it will voluntarily seek out the crate and enter it at the appropriate times. The owner can enj6y peace of mind knowing the dog is quite comfortable and not destroying the house.

The pup should not be left in the crate longer than over night. The amount of time depends upon the dog. NEVER crate a pup ALL day AND ALL night, with outside play time being the exception rather than the rule. His developing mind and body won't have the opportunity to grow correctly.