Crate training, recommended by many veterinarians, trainers, and dog owners, is an approach used by many pet parents intended to help with house training and behavior management and to provide a secure, private area for their puppy or new dog. If appropriately instituted, it can benefit your dog and you. We will tell you the best way to get started.
The Purpose of Crate Training
There are several benefits to crate training.
- Safety: You don't want your puppy or dog getting into dangerous situations when you cannot keep an eye on them. A crate will protect them from chewing on hazardous things or other harmful behaviours.
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House training: Dogs are not born knowing where to relieve their bladders. You have to help them learn, and a crate will assist you in doing that. Dogs shy away from urinating or defecating where they sleep, but if they are in the right-sized cage, they will not empty their bladders there.
- Travel: It's dangerous for you and your puppy to leave your puppy free to roam around the car while you're driving. Having your pet comfortable and secure in a crate is much better.
Choosing the Right Crate
It's essential to choose the right-sized crate.
Size: As mentioned above, you don't want the crate to be large enough that your dog can use one end as the bathroom. However, you want enough room for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie comfortably. You can find more information on measuring your dog and selecting the right-sized crate in our article on sizing crates. See our helpful article on choosing the perfect crate here.
Material: Crates can be made of metal, plastic, or even fabric. Each type has advantages and is suited to different situations. You need to consider your dog's size, behaviour, and the crate's main use. For example, plastic crates can offer a sense of security for nervous dogs; metal crates are more suitable for training and durability, and fabric crates are lighter-weight, so they are very portable and good for calm, trained dogs.
Trying Out the Crate for the First Time
Introduce the crate gradually. Start by making it welcoming. Put comfy bedding and safe toys inside the crate. You can even offer treats or feed your puppy dinner in the crate to create encouraging associations. Keep the door open and let your dog explore the crate slowly in the beginning. Use lots of positive reinforcement. Treats and praise can go a long way to encourage and praise your dog to enter the crate.
Training Your Dog to Feel Comfortable in the Crate
Begin with very short periods, then slowly increase the time you keep the door closed. Of course, do this while you are home. Gradually increase the time as your puppy gets more comfortable. Consistency is the goal. Regular crate time will help your pet get used to the crate.
Initially, your puppy may cry or bark when put in the crate. It would be best to ignore the whining and barking as hard as it is. Wait until the dog is quiet before you let it out of the crate so they don't think that crying or barking gets them out.
Be sure that your dog has had a chance to relieve itself and get a little exercise before putting it in the crate.
For nighttime training, put the crate in your bedroom so, at least for now, your dog feels less alone. Regular bedtime routines can help your puppy know it's time to sleep.
Safety Considerations
To make sure the crate is a safe and secure place:
- Don't leave tags and collars on your dog. They can get caught on parts of the crate.
- Don't leave hazardous toys in the crate. Only leave durable toys the puppy cannot chew into small pieces and swallow.
Rationing Time in the Crate
It's vital to use the crate sparingly.
- Keep track of time in the crate. A puppy should not spend more than a few hours at a time in a crate during the day, depending on their training level and age.
- Make sure your pet gets lots of exercise and bonding time with you.
Crate Training Older Dogs
Crate training an older dog may be a lengthier process if they have never been in a crate before. Go slow and be patient. Older dogs may need more time to get used to a crate. Change your expectations. Older dogs may have preexisting anxieties or fears.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common crate training errors.
- Never use the crate as punishment. That will make your pet have a negative association with it and can cause anxiety and fear.
- Skipping steps. Gradual introduction and patience are crucial to successful crate training.
When approached with patience and consistency, crate training can provide your dog with a sense of security and aid significantly in their overall training and behaviour. It's essential to monitor your dog's response to the crate and adjust your training approach to ensure the experience is positive and beneficial for your furry friend.
Shelby Neely
VMD, MA