Dog Crate Training

Crate Training For Dogs

To begin crate training your dog you need to let them get used to it before locking them inside. You could walk away from him or watch him as he calms down inside. If he shows any signs of protest, you should not let him outside. Be patient and let him calm down and then you can let him out. You will need to do this process several time until they learn to enter and leave the crate by themselves.

Many people protest against crate training a dog because, according to them, it is similar to solitary confinement. 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.

People who take the right approach to crate training puppies will help their dog or puppy realize it to be a safe place for them to rest and not something to fear.

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.

Benefits of Using 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) The dog will feel relatively safe inside the crate especially when located in places where they are most vulnerable.

c) They would have a place for solace when they wanted to rest or when feeling under stressed where no one could bother them.

d) A crate could also be used to limit dogs with problem behaviors.

e) Puppies respond well to crate training as a way to teach them potty training skills and what not to chew on or to not bite people.

f) If your dog has separation anxieties, once they become familiar with their crate they will be able to calm down better.

g) Another advantage is that it keeps the dog safe whenever you bring him outside the home.

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. It is also important to know that if you plan on traveling you will want to consider purchasing a slightly larger crate.

However, when a crate is used for just training purposes, they do not need to be so large that the dog can move around in it and maybe do something undesirable inside it.

How to introduce the crate to the dog

Once you feel your dog is ready for the crate, that is the best time to introduce them to 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. Once he becomes more familiar with the crate, try feeding your dog inside it. This will condition his mind that the crate is for him and he can safely go inside it without fearing any harm.