Crate Training Dogs

The ideal time to start crate training dogs is when they are puppies, a pup may be a little upset at first but will soon adapt and will quickly come to love their crate. A full grown dog that has never been crate trained will definitely have a harder time adjusting, they can experience some anxiety so you will need to take care and have patience when introducing your older dog to their crate.

The Value Of His Crate To Your Dog

If you’re learning about crate training dogs or just trying to get a feel for if it will suit your own dog, then you need to know that in a very short space of time, dogs absolutely love their crates. I guess you have to think back to when dogs were in the wild, they will always find a compact and enclosed space to rest or sleep.

Well their crate gives them exactly that, their very own safe space within the family home.

Your dog will feel happier about having this space of their own, and will be less likely to suffer from anxiety related problems trying to control a bigger space such as your home and surrounding gardens.

So, far from being cruel as some people think, a crate to your dog is fabulous. You will find he or she will use it to just chill out, even when the rest of the house or yard is available. Just because “it’s mine”.

So, How Do You Start Crate Training Dogs

At first you should place the crate in the room where you will be, so your family room is ideal. At bedtime, put the crate in your bedroom, this will reassure them as you are nearby and your dog can see and hear you.

You should put a soft blanket and a water bowl in the crate and leave the door open or take it off altogether, let your dog exlore the crate in his or her own time. If your dog has a favourite toy then put that in as well, show him it’s his space with his things.

Encourage your dog to enter the crate by leaving treats just outside and then inside, never ever force your dog into the crate, that will destroy his trust in you and leave a fear of the crate. This step may take a few days to get through, so be patient.

After 4 to 6 weeks you will be able to leave the crate where you want it to be finally, but for now keep it close to you to alleviate any seperation anxiety problems. Your dog needs to realise that they are not being punished by being put in the crate.

Sizing Your Dog Crate

The crate you use should be only big enough for him or her to lie down and sleep in. If they can walk around in it, they may make a mess in it. If your dog can turn around comfortably in their crate, then it’s the right size.

Aclimatizing Your Dog

You should never take your dog out of the crate if they make a fuss. All you will do is teach your dog that this is the way to get out of the crate. You need to leave them until they quieten down for 5 mins or so, then take them out. You can then make a big fuss with lots of praise and even a treat, he or she will then start to learn that being quiet gets the reward, not making a fuss.

Young pups should never be left in a crate for more than 2 or 3 hours at a time, their bladders cannot hold much longer than that and you risk a mess. Older dogs can be left longer, but this should be built up over time.

If you learn the principles of crate training dogs you will be in the position of having a dog that you can trust never to be too loud or destructive in your home. As they have got their own safe space, they will be secure and not suffer from anxiety problems. All in all you will have a happy dog and a happy home.

What more could you both want.