Friday, March 4, 2011

The Ins And Outs of Crate Training A Puppy

By Brad Morgan


When it comes to dog training, crate training is a safe, effective, and humane way to go. It is as far from animal abuse as you can get. Crate training owners are not negligent in any way, as is often the criticism. They simply want the best for their dogs, and they recognize that crate training is a great method for teaching a variety of desired behaviors.

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.

Because of this, your dog will be much less anxious when you are away from home. You will return home to find a happy dog instead of chewed on furniture.

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.

Puppies want to please you, but their bodies may not be developed enough yet. When you keep your puppy in his crate at night and for periods during the day, ample exercise will help with house training. They need enough time and opportunities to relieve themselves. They also need to stretch their legs and expend some energy.

Crates are great for helping your dog develop necessary behaviors, but they are not disciplinary tools. For instance, if your dog relieves himself in your house, don't put him in his crate for punishment. Deal with the matter in another way, and save the crate for bedtime. You don't want your dog to associate negative things with his crate.

So how do you get started with crate training?

The first thing you need is a good crate, of course! You can choose from plastic or metal crates depending on your needs and preferences. Whatever the material, make sure to choose one that is just big enough for your dog to turn around in.

For crate training to effectively help potty train your pet, he needs room only to sleep because dogs won't soil their sleeping areas.

Next, start introducing your dog to the crate. If you keep it somewhere central, like the living room, he can go in and out while still being part of things. Keep the door open and see if he starts to explore.

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.

Allow him to explore and get used to the crate. Then, you can guide him in and close the door. He may whine to be let out, but have him stay in for a few minutes. He needs to get used to it; you are not abusing him, you are teaching him. Babies fuss when they are put into cribs - this is the same type of situation. They will adapt very quickly.

They will whimper because they want to be picked up. If you let your dog out, he'll continue that behavior. Stand firm and have him stay in there. Don't let him out until he stops whining. Start with short periods and let him out to play or walk.

At first, if your dog continues whining, you will have to encourage him to get in with a treat. When he is in, sit by the crate for a few minutes. Then go into another room for ten or so minutes.

After a period of about ten minutes, come back into the room. You can sit or stand by the crate to let your dog know you are back. Work on this until you are away for about thirty minutes at a time. He'll quickly become used to you being gone, and you can put him in his crate when you leave the house.

Dogs typically react to the security and safety of the dog crates rapidly. In case your doggy seem hesitant, invest time to get him used to the pet crate. It will make him more pleased and secure, and you'll experience greater understanding your canine friend is content even if you are not there. It also is immensely useful in several elements of coaching, so it is worth the time and energy it requires to help your puppy get used to his pet crate.




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