Crate Training 101
There are many misconceptions when it comes to crate training a dog. Some believe crate training is a great way to housebreak a puppy and give them a calm space. Other people think that it is mean to confine a dog to a create. Rather than consigning them to a crate, you are giving a dog its space. Crate training a dog gives them a secure place to retreat to. It also helps with housetraining, prevents dogs from soiling their bed, and helps calm a dog during times of stress.
The process of crate training a puppy is timely. It will not happen overnight, and you will not see the benefits immediately. As always, patience and consistency go a long way. Below are the steps on how to crate-train a puppy.
- Allow the puppy to get used to the crate. The puppy needs to gain familiarity with the crate. Put the crate somewhere which receives heavy traffic by your household and allow them to explore the crate on their own time.
- Lay down. Let your dog get comfortable spending some time in the crate. As somewhere safe, this builds a positive association.
- Comfort is key. Your dog is unlikely happy in an uncomfortable crate, so put a blanket or a pet bed inside.
- Positive reinforcement with treats. Is your dog having problems entering the crate on its own? Treats should help. Using treats as a reward will help build a positive association with the dog and crate.
- Feed inside the crate. After your dog has gotten used to the crate and goes in there to sleep, you can give them their dish and food in the crate.
- Be firm. You should be firm with a dog that whines to come out.
- “No.” Teach the puppy the word “no.” It is crucial in crate training as it allows you to teach the dog what behavior is wrong without opening the crate.
- Extend time. Increase the time the puppy spends in the crate. Your dog’s time in their crate needs to be increased gradually. Place the puppy in the crate overnight or when you leave for work.
Practice makes perfect, especially with crate training. You may experience misbehavior or destruction from your dog during the training process. Do not rush crate training. You must ensure that you are doing it at a comfortable pace for your pet. Repeating positive behaviors will get your dog used to the routine!
