A tiny cockerpoo puppy called Piper has gone viral on TikTok after a clip of her first night of crate training earned more than 400,000 likes in just three days.
The February 20 video (@shannonleight_) shows Piper’s owner, Shannon, gently placing the small pup into her crate, where she’s surrounded by blankets and toys. Shannon closes the door and walks away—only for Piper to quietly squeeze herself out through a the bars moments later.
Shannon captioned the post with a touch of sarcasm, writing: “the first night in the crate is going well,” a line that quickly resonated with viewers and racked up more than 31,000 likes on its own.
In the comments, Shannon explained why the family chose to crate train Piper, writing, “[Piper is] way too little to be [wandering] around when everybody is asleep she also needs a safe space when she’s tired and overstimulated.”
Why Crate Training Is Often Recommended
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), enclosed spaces can offer dogs a secure place to rest and unwind. The organization explains that dogs naturally seek out small, sheltered areas that make them feel protected. Crates can serve as effective training tools for puppies, provide comfort for senior dogs, and offer a safe option during emergencies.
The AKC also notes that many veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend introducing crate training at a young age. Because dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping areas, crates can play a key role in house training by helping puppies learn bladder control—reducing accidents around the home in the process.
Helping Puppies Feel Comfortable in the Crate
While Piper appeared determined to make an early escape, other puppies may respond differently, sometimes staying inside but crying or becoming anxious.
Newsweek previously spoke with dog trainer Lisa Burton, who shared advice on how owners can help puppies adjust calmly to crate time.
Burton explained that the process should begin gradually, starting with briefly closing the door and reopening it almost immediately. Puppies should be rewarded for remaining calm during these short moments.
“You don’t want to close it and wait early on because it’s really likely your puppy is going to respond if they’re not happy with the door being closed,” Burton said. “And if they do respond, that moment of calm that you want to reward has already gone.”
As puppies become more comfortable, owners can slowly increase the amount of time the door stays closed and eventually add distance by stepping away.
“Take your time with this exercise,” Burton advised. “Work slowly and at a pace that your puppy is comfortable with, and you will reap the rewards.”
TikTok Reacts
Viewers were quick to weigh in on Piper’s breakout moment, with many sharing their own experiences.
One user wrote: “ Crate training is SOOOO important!! When I was training dogs I always referred to their crate as their bedroom. It’s a safe place that is theirs and they can go to when overwhelmed. I have seen many dogs actually love their crates, my dog being one! She’ll go in there all by herself and sleep for hours.”
“Thank goodness, you made sure to lock the crate,” joked another.
A third added: “The puppy stage is not easy!! They’re so cute but, man, they’re escape artists!!”
Newsweek reached out to @shannonleight_ for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.