Thursday, June 19, 2014

Using A Crate For Training

By Garrett McMahan


Some people are hesitant to use a dog crate with their pet and view this object as a punishment rather than a helpful training tool. While crates can be negative if not used properly, a dog also can be trained to view the crate in a more pleasant light. For dogs, who instinctively like small, closed in den-like spaces, this can be a safe and cozy spot for them to stay.

Crate training can be used to support house breaking, and that is often the initial use of the crate when you first bring home your dog. It's a good place to keep your dog temporarily during the early days of training if you need to accomplish some tasks around the home and don't want to have to clean up messes or deal with behavior issues. Many people will keep their puppies in the crate overnight to prevent accidents. Dogs rarely relieve themselves in their bed, so this can keep the house clean. Just limit the overnight time for puppies to about six or seven hours and then immediately take them outside to relieve themselves.

A crate should be just big enough so that your dog can turn in a circle and also lie down. If it's too small, they will be uncomfortable and if the crate is too large, then they might just use one corner of it to go to the bathroom, which you do not want. Your goal should be to make the crate time a positive experience for your animal and never used as a punishment.

In general, dogs need to warm up to new things and this is definitely true of the crate. They will be scared if you simply place them inside, shut the door and leave. So begin by showing them the soft, cozy crate bed and place it inside the crate with a yummy treat inside. When they go inside, don't shut the crate door, just let them enjoy the treat and leave if they wish. Spend some time next to your pet with the crate door open and gently pet them and give them soft praise. Sometimes a favorite toy can be reserved only for time in the crate and this can make crate time special. When you finally do shut the door, do so gently as the banging of the door might startle or upset your pet.

While crates make housebreaking easier, they also are helpful places to keep your dog when you are not at home, and many owners always crate their dogs when they are away. This prevents accidents, of course, but dogs often get nervous and restless when their humans are away and can become destructive. This will only make you unhappy with your dog, and using a crate can help prevent problems. Obedience training in general also can prevent many common problems such as chewing or scratching and even dangerous issues such as running off.

To ensure that your dog is properly trained in a variety of situations, consider purchasing a helpful set of dog training DVDs, such as The Dog's Way. This obedience training program includes 12 lessons spread among five DVDs as well as a helpful workbook and reminder cards. The dog training includes teaching the dog to walk on a leash properly, how to sit and stay on command, how to recognize boundaries, coming when you call and many more crucial obedience skills.




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