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It’s a common misconception that crate training is cruel. Dogs are den animals, which means they feel most secure in a small, enclosed den-like area – like a crate.
Crate training can be a useful tool for your dog, just be sure you do it properly.
Why is crate training important?
Before we dive into the tips, you first need to understand why crate training is so important for your dog’s development, comfort and safety.
House training
Dogs will not want to soil their sleeping space, so it’s highly unlikely that your pooch will have an accident in their crate. This means, when you let your dog out of the crate to go outside, he or she will relieve themselves there instead of in your home.
For more tips on house training your puppy, click here!
Boundaries
Crate training is an excellent way to teach your dog boundaries in your home. This is also a good way to help your dog learn what he or she can and cannot do.
Transporting or traveling
Familiarizing your dog with a crate allows them to be comfortable while traveling as well.
Crates are a great way to transport your dog, and by making them feel at home in their crate as soon as possible, you’ll make it easier on yourself later down the road.
Now that you know why crates are important, here are our top 4 tips to help you crate train your dog the right way!
1. Familiarize your dog with the crate
Dogs are naturally curious animals, but anything new often prompts suspicion.
Make sure the crate is part of your home’s furniture by setting it out in the family room or common area. That way, your dog will be able to explore it themselves and become comfortable with it.
2. Make it your dog’s new “Happy Place”
By ensuring the crate is comfortable and welcoming, your dog will be more likely to enjoy it.
Try placing a soft blanket or a dog bed inside the crate. Placing some of your dog’s favourite toys in the crate will also encourage a positive, happy experience.
3. Extend your dog’s crate time
After you’ve been crate training for some time, try increasing the length of time your dog stays in the crate, and try adding in treats or toys as an incentive.
When your dog isn’t in the crate, try leaving the door open. You’ll be surprised at how often they walk into the crate on their own to rest.
4. Give them treats!
Try giving your dog a treat they love, but only gets when they are inside the crate. That way, they can begin to associate the crate with that yummy special treat.
Need more tips?
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