I don't care for crates. I've failed miserably at crate training
I worked full time when my shih tzu was a puppy and tried crating him. Boyfriends sister would come over and play with him for an hour on days when no one was home, but it didn't last long (maybe a month?).... especially couldn't take it at night as I just wanted him to sleep in bed.
I tried again with Belle (now am a stay at home Mom) and first night she slept quietly in crate. The second night she whined and cried a bit. The third night she found her voice and barked like crazy.... she has slept in my bed ever since
I used a plastic travel crate for both of them.
I agree with Gemy on the training. Do the puppy classes first, then CGC. I started Belle in Basic Obedience at Petco 4 weeks ago and we are enjoying it so much! She just turned a year old on Nov 1st. I plan to do their 2nd level class next, and then we'll work on CGC
@DvlshAngel985 - IMO Kaji isn't too old to do basic obedience. I think that they can start at any age and the socialization and confidence building they get from it is priceless!