How long for pup to settle??

[SinclairSpectrum]

Got our gorgeous boy a couple of days ago, all going well, not too mouthy / jumpy yet, very cuddly, etc. BUT he bloody hates his crate.
Wont go in of own volition, wont eat super tasty treats in it, howls the house down and poos in it if I put him in, even for 5 mins.
I know its early days but there are times I need him to use crate, eg overnight.
Am leaving door open on it, have tried hand feeding him closer and closer to it.
Any ideas? Or is this just one of those things he has to get used to??

[AlphaBravoHenryFoxtons]

what breed of dog is he? And how old?

[SinclairSpectrum]

He is an Italian Spinone, 8 weeks. Am I expecting too much? Just thought he would at least go in it!

[AlphaBravoHenryFoxtons]

I love Italian Spinones they are so pretty. I'm brand new to puppy ownership. I'm sure a proper dog owner will be along in a minute.

Could you put him to sleep on a blanket or in a soft basket then put him into the crate on the blanket/basket once he's asleep? In the hope he will then just get used to it?

[TweeAintMee]

Start off by only putting him in it when he is sleepy. Keep the door open. He has to think of it as a place of refuge. Put a cover/blanket on the top so it feels like a den. Put a small toy in there.

[SausagePies]

Ours always get fed in their crate. As soon as my hand goes in the dog food bin they make a dash for the cage. It does help though that they are food orientated!
Don't pressure him, feed him ever closer and closer to the cage, and then gradually sprinkle a few bits inside the cage. I always find ham and chicken scraps quite persuasive!!!