subject: 5 Tips To Crate Train Your Dog [print this page] Crate training is not a cruel form of training, quite the opposite in fact. When your dog is properly crate trained, they will love their crate. Crates act as a sanctuary for dogs and can leave you with peace of mind while you are away from home.
Crate training helps with housebreaking, helps with separation anxiety, and helps reduce destructive behaviors such as chewing, and it keeps your dog safe while you're away. While it is always easier to start crate training your dog while young it is still possible to crate train your older dog.
5 tips to properly crate train your dog:
1) Buying the right sized crate: Your dogs crate should be large enough for him to sit, stand and stretch out comfortably.
2) Gradually introduce the crate: Set the crate in a room that is fairly active and let your dog investigate it on his own before moving further along with training. You can place a few bits of his favorite treat to entice him to enter in on his own. Praise him whenever he goes near or enters the crate.
3) Get him used to being locked inside the crate: After enough time exploring and getting used to the crate it is time to get your dog used to being locked in there. Be sure to keep the crate in an active part of your home, lock him in only for a few minutes at a time while you're still within sight. Start slowly, just a few minutes at a time and be sure to give plenty of praise when he is quiet and well behaved.
4)Get him used to being in the crate when you are gone: This is the next and most crucial step to crate training your dog. Keep his crate in an active part of the house and for small periods of time leave the room while he is locked in there. Start gradually with just a few minutes at a time, praising him reassuring him each time you come back into the room.
5)Reinforcement: In the beginning your dog will probably start whining, crying, or barking. It is important to not move or say anything after you get back until he has quieted down. If you hear your dog whining stay firm for the entire amount of time you have decided to be out of the room or until he has quieted down. When you return to the room, let your dog out of his kennel praise him if he has been good, otherwise ignore him until he has calmed down and then proceed to praise him.
Crate training is a vital tool that can help you to put an end to other bad behaviors your dog may be exhibiting. Here are some important reminders: remove all collars and harnesses, provide water for your dog, let your dog go to the bathroom before you leave, and lastly if your puppy is exceptionally young and has not been properly potty trained yet it is best to leave him in an open pen with paper so as not to soil inside the kennel.
