Crate
training puppies -
beyond housebreaking
Crate
training puppies is perhaps one of the least understood actions new
puppy owners choose to undertake. And that really is a shame,
because housebreaking a puppy is only one of the many reasons you
should put the time into training your new pup with a crate. Other important
reasons include:
-
Giving
your new family member a comfortable, safe place to sleep or just hang out
-
Dealing
with puppy separation anxiety
-
Getting
your puppy used to the crate for the times when he will be traveling
with you
Getting puppies
used to crates
A good
approach when using crates for training new puppies is what I call the
"incremental" strategy. This simply means that you introduce the
kennel to your puppy slowly and in stages, so you don't inadvertently
create negative associations in your dog's mind (which may last a
lifetime).
 First, if
possible, remove the upper section of the dog crate, leaving only the
kennel's tray. Then, place the lower section - without making a big
deal about it - in the location you've chosen for your puppy to spend
most of his time. A good spot is near where you spend most of your
time at home. This is so your new puppy will associate the crate with
the pleasant feeling of being near his 'mommy' or 'daddy.'
Occasionally,
drop a portion of a dog biscuit onto the crate tray and let your puppy
discover it there. This way, the pup will begin to see the crate
bottom as a good place that offers rewards. The time you spend on this
stage of training can vary a lot. Don't rush it. If he still seems skittish about
sitting on the crate tray after a few days, keep at it.
When you're
confident that you've trained the dog to be comfortable on the crate
bottom, add the top section and continue with the treats in the same manner. Eventually,
replace the food rewards with his favorite toy so you don't make a little butterball
out of him!
Remember: puppies
are most likely to come to see training crates as bad places only if their
first associations with them are negative. The key to avoiding this
and having a puppy who enjoys the crate (making your life a lot easier
in the process!) is to make his first encounters with the crate
enjoyable. Good luck!
Dog Supplies |
Dog Beds |
Dog Collars |
Dog Crates |
Dog Food & Treats |
Dog Health Products |
Dog Toys |
Dog Training Products
|
