There are a lot of misconceptions concerning crate training. Many mistakenly believe that it is negligent and even cruel and that you are in essence locking your pet up in a cage. It is in reality a safe, humane, and effective way to train your dog. 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 housetraining to quelling separation anxiety, crate training is one of the most effective training methods available.
Dogs like small, safe places, which is why their ancestors made dens. A crate recreates this feeling, which is why so many dogs respond favorably to them. It also gives them a space of their own, which everyone needs and appreciates. 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. If you introduce your dog to his crate for short periods, it will be tremendously helpful in housetraining. They learn to wait until they are let outside in order to relieve themselves. Until they perfect this, however, limit the time spent in the crate.
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.
Crate training can take a little time, so let's get started.
You can choose crates that are made from plastic or metal, depending on how you will use the crate and what works for you. The important thing is to choose the correct size. Your dog should be able to turn around and lie down. You may think that a bigger crate is more comfortable, but it just allows him to create a space to relieve his bowels and bladder without soiling 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 housetraining 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.
Once he has had a chance to explore a little, urge him to go inside. You can guide him in with a treat or a toy. Food is a good way to get him in because it allows him to form positive associations with the crate. 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.
Babies will cry because they would rather have you hold them. Your dog is the same way. It may break your heart to hear your pet whine, but if you let him out, he will be unlikely to get back in. You will make crate training much harder for both of you. Once he stops crying, let him stay in the crate for a few minutes before letting him out. Several minutes at a time, followed by a walk or play time, is a great way to start.
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.
Dogs typically respond to the safety and security of their crates very quickly. If your dog is reluctant, take the time to get him used to the crate. It will make him more happy and secure, and you'll feel better knowing your pet is content even when you are not there. It also is tremendously helpful in several aspects of training, so it is worth the time and effort it takes to help your dog get used to his crate.
Brad runs some excellent sites dedicated to dog and puppy training. Visit his puppy site if you are having puppy training biting issues that you need to deal with. For information on good dog training programs, visit the Sit Stay Fetch page on his dog training site.
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