Dog Crate Training

To begin crate training your dog you need to let them get used to it before locking them inside. You can watch your dog from a distance to see how long it takes them to calm down and get used to the crate. If he shows any signs of protest, you should not let him outside. Instead, let him settle down first then let him leave after awhile. You will need to do this process several time until they learn to enter and leave the crate by themselves.

Some people oppose the idea of crate training dogs, because they think is a cruel form of isolation. Still, the benefits to crate training your dog mentioned in this article, and several other benefits that we will not take the time to explore, show this to be a good method for both the owner and their dog.

With appropriate and sufficient training, crate training your puppy or dog will make him see it as his haven instead of an enclosure that makes him feel unsafe and lonely.

Crate training is based on the instinct of the dog to find some security with den nesting places that are isolated from all distractions. Dens are what dogs naturally seek for in a home. Your dog will respond well to your patience and use of correct techniques when training them to use the crate.

Why You Should Use a Crate

a) There are times when you can not let your dog run around freely and a crate is a great way to keep them with you, while controlling them at the same time.

b) Dogs will begin to feel secure inside the crate and appreciate the safety zone it provides when they are in an unfamiliar place.

c) The crate quickly becomes a familiar place to rest and retreat too from things that make them uncomfortable.

d) Some dogs may have some behavior problems that can be helped with proper crate training.

e) It is also a good place for puppies that are still untrained and might cause some trouble within the home such as biting.

f) This could also be good for dogs with separation anxiety.

g) It could secure the dog whenever the owner has to bring him outside.

h) Dogs feel safe and secure inside their own familiar crate.

i) Crates could enhance training by giving the dog a better sense of direction for routine activities.

Size Does Matter

You will need to choose a crate that allows the dog enough room to stand up and lie down comfortably, without him hitting his head or body against the walls or door all the time. However, if you also intend to use the crate for travel, the crate should be larger than the regular above mentioned size.

If you are using the crate for training only, it should follow the guidelines that was just mentioned, since a larger crate would give him enough room to do unwanted things in the crate.

How to introduce the crate to the dog

The best time to introduce the crate to a dog is when you feel that they are ready for it. After buying the right crate, you could place it somewhere in the house where it would catch the dog’s attention. The first week you should remove the door and just let him explore it at his leisure.

If he does not show any sign of interest, try leaving some of his favorite treats inside. After a couple of days, try feeding your dog inside the crate. This will condition his mind that the crate is for him and he can safely go inside it without fearing any harm.