Today, we’re going to help you understand how to crate train your dog. Dogs can be difficult to train, especially if they have a lot of energy or aren’t used to spending time in a crate. The most successful way of housebreaking puppies is through positive reinforcement and patience along with the use of a crate. In this article, we will discuss some easy steps that will help get you started with crate training your dog!
Why Use a Dog Crate?
This is a question that many people ask. The answer is quite simple, dogs like to have their own space where they can feel safe and secure. A crate allows them this while still being able to be close by you or another family member at all times!
Choosing the Right Size Crate
The size of the crate is important. You want a crate that will give enough room for your dog to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably. The one exception to this rule is if you have a puppy under six months old who has not yet grown into his full adult size – in this case it’s recommended that they use a smaller crate. Otherwise, they might use one end of the crate as their bathroom area.
The Role of Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is key! If your dog exhibits a desired behavior, such as entering the crate or not barking when asked to go into their crate, reward them with praise and another treat. Consider using treats instead of food in order to encourage this type of positive interaction.
You want your dog to associate the crate with good things!
Reinforcing the desired behavior will help your dog build a positive association. If you are consistent and repeat this process, they will eventually learn that entering their crate is not just something that happens when we leave for work or go to bed- it’s also something rewarding.
Introducing Your Dog to Their Crate
The first step in crate training is to introduce your dog to the crate. Place a treat inside and encourage them with verbal praise such as “good boy” or “yes!” If they are hesitant about going into the crate, try draping a piece of clothing over it that smells like you and then let them explore at their own pace.
The Benefits of Using a Dog Crate
A dog crate can be a great way to help your pup feel secure and comfortable when left at home alone. The dog’s natural instinct is to seek shelter, so they will find comfort in having their own little space that provides them the security of being hidden away from general commotion or action.
Dog crates are also great if you travel often or if you need your pup to stay in one area of the house for any reason, as they can be used to provide a safe place for them.
A dog crate is also beneficial because it enables easy housetraining by showing dogs where their bathroom spot is and keeping them confined to that spot while they learn not to relieve themselves elsewhere.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- If you have a pup who likes to chew on things, be sure to keep their crate within sight and out of reach of any furniture they might want to gnaw off the legs from.
- Be mindful that if your dog is at all claustrophobic or anxious around small spaces, a crate may not work for them.
- Don’t send your dog into the crate as punishment for bad behavior.
- Be patient. Like learning anything else, crate training takes time.
Crate Training Makes Life Easier
We love crate training because it gives dogs a safe place to be on their own. It’s also much easier for your pup to learn house rules and boundaries if they’re able to stay in one place while you teach them about what is and isn’t allowed when inside the home.
Lastly, crates are especially great during times that involve lots of movement and chaos. Let’s say you’re having a party and you want your dog to be safe in their own space. A crate is the perfect solution for this.
