Crate Training Dog

Dog Crate Training

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. Remember this is for training so if he begins to act up you should not let him out. Be patient and let him calm down and then you can let him out. Do this exercise for a couple of days until he has learned to enter the crate and leave it on his own.

Many people protest against crate training a dog because, according to them, it is similar to solitary confinement. However, with the benefits mentioned below and other benefits not listed in this article, may help you to conclude that crate training could benefit both owner and his 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. For dogs, a den can serve as their home. Through proper introduction and selection of the right techniques, the dog will not be threatened by this approach to training.

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) It could secure the dog whenever the owner has to bring him outside.

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. However, if you also intend to use the crate for travel, the crate should be larger than the regular above mentioned size.

If you are using the crate for training only, it should follow the guidelines that was just mentioned, since a larger crate would give him enough room to do unwanted things in the crate.

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 you purchase the right crate for your dog you will need to put it someplace in the home where they will see it often. 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. After a couple of days, try feeding your dog inside the crate. This special treat is a signal to your dog that this a special place just for him, and that will create a sense of safety and security all dogs enjoy.