When Should I Crate Train My Puppy?

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 house training to quelling separation anxiety, crate training is one of the most effective training methods available.

Dogs have lived in small dens for centuries. Having a "den" of his own will help your dog feel safe and secure. Everyone likes a place of their own - especially dogs.

This will help cut down on separation anxiety when you are not at home, which means you will not find chewed up shoes or furniture after being away.

When you are away from home for short periods of time, you can put your dog in his crate. Soon, you'll find that he is less anxious and displays far fewer undesired behaviors even when he is not in his crate. Your dog will progress to the point where going into the crate when you're gone or sleeping is optional. But you may be surprised to find that your dog wants to go into his little space.

Because dogs are so resistant to soiling their own sleeping area, crates can help with the house training process. If left in their crates for small increments, they will develop greater control over their bladders and bowels. If you have a puppy, remember that they may be too young to hold it, so only keep them in the crate for little stints at a time.

Puppies want to please you, but their bodies may not be developed enough yet. When you keep your puppy in his crate at night and for periods during the day, ample exercise will help with house training. They need enough time and opportunities to relieve themselves. They also need to stretch their legs and expend some energy.

When training your dog, a crate can be your best ally. If you use it correctly, you will help create a safe environment for your dog. Do not use a crate as punishment, however. It should be a safe haven, not a place for discipline.

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.

Now, you have to acclimate your pet to his new crate. If you keep it in the living room or kitchen, he can feel free to explore it while not isolating himself from you and your family. Keep the door open so he can come and go. Don't force him in at this point.

Get him to go in by dropping treats or a favorite toy inside. You can also try feeding your dog next to or in his crate so he will have good associations with it.

Once he's gone in and seems to feel comfortable, close the door. He will probably whine to be let out. This is perfectly normal ? it just means he has to get used to it. It's like an infant being laid in a crib.

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.

If your dog is reluctant to go into his crate, try encouraging him with a treat. Once in, leave him for a few minutes while you go into the next room. Let your dog remain in the crate while you are out of sight.

Come back and sit by the crate. Do this until you are out of his site for about thirty minutes. Once he's used to this, you can start leaving him for short periods when you're out of the house.

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.