subject: How To Crate Train Your Dog [print this page] How To Crate Train Your Dog How To Crate Train Your Dog
You can be forgiven if you haven't heard of the term "crate training" before, but as the owner of a new puppy it could be a valuable training option that can reduce separation anxiety, excessive barking and improve your puppy's overall behavior. So what exactly is crate training?
Crate training basically involves the use of a crate which you can purchase from most pet stores. The crate is generally sold in different sizes and should be just larger than the animal to ensure that he or she can move around, but cannot walk around. The idea behind the crate is to mimic the way dogs find shelter and comfort in the wild. These dogs will generally spend the night curled in a small burrow, under bark or any small space that provides them shelter and a feeling of security. Effectively a crate gives the dog a small home that is completely their own. It should be warm and secure and be a place that your dog associates with safety. Having a crate is even more important if you have a large home and back garden, as your dog will often feel lost or distressed at having to look after such a vast space.
When to Start Crate Training
The best time to start crate training a dog is when you first bring him or her home, as your puppy will be more adaptable. If your dog is older, you may find that your dog will resist the crate at first, especially if you have in the past allowed the dog to sleep in your bed. But do not despair, all dogs can and will get used to being in a crate if you are patient and follow some simple steps to reassure your dog or puppy along the way.
How to Crate Train
Start by placing your new crate in the room where your family spends most of their time. This could be in the lounge room during the evening while you are all watching television, in an office if while you are working from home and in the bedroom with you or one of your children overnight. The important thing early on is to let your pet know that you are nearby.
Move the crate around your house as you and your family move around. It is not necessary to move it when you are out of the room for short periods or when you are not using the crate.
Before you place your puppy into the crate for the first time, allow him or her to identify with it. Do this by putting their favorite blanket (the one that they sleep with) inside, their favourite toy and finally ensuring that they have fresh water. After an hour or so, place your puppy inside the crate. Do not remove the puppy if they become distressed or starts to cry as your puppy will quickly learn that you will do this every time he or she whines. Allow them to settle and if he or she is quiet and good remove them after 5 minutes and ensure that you give lots of cuddles to reward them for a job well done.
Slowly increase the amount of time your pet remains in the crate, especially at night time, to an hour, then two, until eventually you will be able to place your dog happily in his or her crate for the entire time that you are out or overnight while you sleep.
Ensuring your Crate Training is Successful
To have achieve the best outcome, which is for your dog to love their crate as you do your own home, be prepared to progress slowly, allow your puppy to be comfortable with short periods before moving on to longer periods. After time you will also be able to place your dog's crate in a different room to you and have him or her feel just as comfortable.
Ensure that your crate is the right size for your dog, if the crate is too large your puppy may get restless, anxious and may even use the crate to go to the bathroom and finally be patient and provide your dog with lots of encouragement and cuddles when they do the right thing.
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