When Should I Crate Train My Puppy?
When it comes to dog training, crate training is a safe, effective, and humane way to go. It is as far from animal abuse as you can get. Crate training owners are not negligent in any way, as is often the criticism. They simply want the best for their dogs, and they recognize that crate training is a great method for teaching a variety of desired behaviors.
Far from being “locked up in a cage,” crates provide a needed sense of safety for dogs. And they are multi-purpose. From helping with house training to quelling separation anxiety, crate training is one of the most effective training methods available.
Small dens have sheltered dogs for time immemorial. Dogs feel safe and protected, and crates recreate this feeling. It is as important for dogs to have their own space as it is for humans.
Crate training allows your dog to develop a sense of security, even when you are not there. Instead of coming home to find evidence of his anxiety on your chewed up shoes, you can find a dog who is happy and well-adjusted. Don’t worry; he’ll still be happy to see you!
Many dogs grow to love their crates and will prefer going in there when you’re gone even if they have the option to stay out. Some even go in when you are home and they need some time alone.
It helps with puppy potty training because dogs do not like to soil their sleeping areas. They will learn to control their bladders and bowels while in the crate. To help with this, make sure you only have them in the crate for short periods while they are learning.
Small puppies do not have the bladder or bowel control to wait for hours to relieve themselves. If you keep them in the crate at night, make sure they have ample exercise and play time. Sticking to a regular walking routine will also help learn to control his bladder and bowels.
Crates are great for helping your dog develop necessary behaviors, but they are not disciplinary tools. For instance, if your dog relieves himself in your house, don’t put him in his crate for punishment. Deal with the matter in another way, and save the crate for bedtime. You don’t want your dog to associate negative things with his crate.
So how do you get started with crate training?
First, choose a good crate. They can be plastic or metal and should be only large enough for your dog to turn around in. If it is too big, then the dog will have enough room to eliminate and then return to his sleeping area.
Dogs will not relieve themselves in their sleeping area, so provide him with just enough room to sleep. This will make your house training efforts much more successful.
How do you get your dog into his crate? Start slowly by placing the crate somewhere that allows your dog to explore without feeling separated from you or your family. He will probably be curious and will want to check it out.
Encourage your dog to get into his crate by guiding him in with a toy or treat. If he learns to associate positive things like this with his crate, he will be more likely to use it and enjoy it. Try feeding him next to it, and remember to praise him when he goes in.
Let him go in and out. If you feel he’s ready, close the door. Once he realizes he’s closed in, he may whine. This is a normal and understandable reaction. Think of it like putting a baby to bed.
Like babies, puppies will want to get out and return to you. If you cave in with a baby, he won’t learn to sleep on his own. If you give in to your pet, he won’t learn to stay in the crate. Ultimately, it is very beneficial to him, so stick with it. When he stops whining, you can let him out for a walk or some play time. Start with several minutes of crate time and progress gradually. Always take him for a walk or let him out to play before and after crate time.
Some dogs are hesitant to go into the crate, and it may take several sessions before he is comfortable. Continue luring him in with treats. Then, sit by the crate and let him know you are there. After a few minutes, go to the next room.
Stay in the next room for about ten minutes, and then come back and resume your position near the crate. Increase the time you are in the next room until your dog is comfortable with about thirty minutes. At this milestone, you can begin leaving him in his crate while you are not home.
Your dog should adapt relatively quickly. Most really like the comfort of the crate. Your dog may take to it right away or may need a little extra training. Be prepared to spend some time working at it because it really will help with his overall training.
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