There are a lot of misconceptions concerning crate training. Many mistakenly believe that it is negligent and even cruel and that you are in essence locking your pet up in a cage. It is in reality a safe, humane, and effective way to train your dog.
If used properly, though, crates provide a sense of security and safety for your dog. They also help with puppy "potty" training and keeping your dog from making a mess of your home when you're not there.
Dogs like small, safe places, which is why their ancestors made dens. A crate recreates this feeling, which is why so many dogs respond favorably to them. It also gives them a space of their own, which everyone needs and appreciates.
This will help cut down on separation anxiety when you are not at home, which means you will not find chewed up shoes or furniture after being away.
As your dog begins to feel more comfortable with your home and with you being away, you may feel confident in leaving the dog out while you're gone. Some dogs, though, actually prefer the crate.
If you introduce your dog to his crate for short periods, it will be tremendously helpful in house training. They learn to wait until they are let outside in order to relieve themselves. Until they perfect this, however, limit the time spent in the crate.
Small puppies do not have the bladder or bowel control to wait for hours to relieve themselves. If you keep them in the crate at night, make sure they have ample exercise and play time. Sticking to a regular walking routine will also help learn to control his bladder and bowels.
When training your dog, a crate can be your best ally. If you use it correctly, you will help create a safe environment for your dog. Do not use a crate as punishment, however. It should be a safe haven, not a place for discipline.
Here are some tips to get you started on your crate training process:
First, choose a good crate. They can be plastic or metal and should be only large enough for your dog to turn around in. If it is too big, then the dog will have enough room to eliminate and then return to his sleeping area.
Dogs will not relieve themselves in their sleeping area, so provide him with just enough room to sleep. This will make your house training efforts much more successful.
Now, you have to acclimate your pet to his new crate. If you keep it in the living room or kitchen, he can feel free to explore it while not isolating himself from you and your family. Keep the door open so he can come and go. Don't force him in at this point.
Once he has had a chance to explore a little, urge him to go inside. You can guide him in with a treat or a toy. Food is a good way to get him in because it allows him to form positive associations with the crate.
Let him go in and out. If you feel he's ready, close the door. Once he realizes he's closed in, he may whine. This is a normal and understandable reaction. Think of it like putting a baby to bed.
Babies will cry because they would rather have you hold them. Your dog is the same way. It may break your heart to hear your pet whine, but if you let him out, he will be unlikely to get back in. You will make crate training much harder for both of you. Once he stops crying, let him stay in the crate for a few minutes before letting him out. Several minutes at a time, followed by a walk or play time, is a great way to start.
Some dogs are hesitant to go into the crate, and it may take several sessions before he is comfortable. Continue luring him in with treats. Then, sit by the crate and let him know you are there. After a few minutes, go to the next room.
Stay in the next room for about ten minutes, and then come back and resume your position near the crate. Increase the time you are in the next room until your dog is comfortable with about thirty minutes. At this milestone, you can begin leaving him in his crate while you are not home.
Dogs typically respond to the safety and security of their crates very quickly. If your dog is reluctant, take the time to get him used to the crate. It will make him more happy and secure, and you'll feel better knowing your pet is content even when you are not there. It also is tremendously helpful in several aspects of training, so it is worth the time and effort it takes to help your dog get used to his crate.
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