Dog Crate Training

Dog crate training can benefit your dog in many ways.  Crate training can be helpful for traveling with your dog, for house training, and to provide your dog with a safe and secure place of his own to retreat to in your home.  Here are some tips on dog crate training.

Getting Started With Crate Training

The best way to begin crate training your dog, no matter his age, is to bring the crate into your home like it’s an ordinary piece of furniture.  Place the crate somewhere that your dog will be sure to notice it.  Some people like to put the crate in their bedroom, especially if they have a puppy, so they can keep an eye on the puppy through the night.  If you like to have your dog sleep in your bedroom then put the crate in there.  But you can put the crate anywhere as long as your dog notices it.

Place a comfortable pad in the bottom of the crate.  A sheepskin pad is a good choice since it’s comfortable and easy to wash.  You should also place some dog toys and treats inside the crate.  Leave the door wide open.  Tie it back if necessary so it won’t close on your dog.

Don’t rush your dog.  Allow him to go inside the crate and check it out as he wishes.  If he hasn’t gone inside after the first day you should place his pan of food in the crate to encourage him to go inside.  There are no tricks involved but you do want your dog to check the crate out.

Your dog may or may not choose to spend time in the crate.  Some dogs like to use crates as their own private place to sleep and hang out.  Other dogs ignore them.  Each dog is different.  The important point is for your dog to become accustomed to the crate.

Spending Time In The Crate

Once your dog is used to the crate in the house and thinks it’s no big deal, you should occasionally close the door when your dog is inside the crate.  Make sure that you’re going to be home when you do this and that you only keep your dog in the crate for a few minutes.  Then let him out of the crate and praise him.  Your dog probably won’t mind spending this time in the crate, especially if he has some treats and toys to keep him busy.

You can gradually ask your dog to spend a little longer in the crate, always with some treats and toys.  Before you ask your dog to spend more than a few minutes in the crate be sure that you take him outside to potty so he won’t be uncomfortable.  If he’s going to be in the crate for very long you should provide him with some water.

Eventually you can leave your dog in the crate while you leave the house for a few minutes.  Again, make sure that your dog has some toys and treats while you’re gone.  If you have worked up to this step gradually your dog shouldn’t mind your absence.

At this point your dog is basically crate trained.  You simply need to take care of his various needs as he spends different amounts of time in the crate.

Be Careful

Do be careful with crating your dog.  Crates are meant to function something like a baby’s playpen.  They are for short-term use.  You should not crate your dog day and night.  Dogs have to be allowed out to relieve themselves.  If you leave your dog in a crate too long they will eliminate in the crate even though they are very reluctant to do so.

Crates can be a safe place for your dog — a private place to get away from noise and other things in the house.  They can help with house training.  And it’s much safer for your dog to travel in a crate, even in your personal vehicle.  But do use your dog’s crate with intelligence.

Of course, this article is only able to cover a small selection of the facts on dog crate training.  There are many different facts to consider and it’s important to get them right.  When possible, get a good solid guide to show you everything you need to know about dog crate training.