Crate Training Your Dog

For those who love their dogs, and don’t we all, our hearts break every time we crate our dogs. But take heart. Dog don’t have the same reaction to the crate as humans.

Crate training helps with housebreaking, teaches overactive dogs how to be still, and helps nervous dogs feel safe.

Still, the last thing you may want to do when you bring home a new puppy is introduce him to a crate. But you will need to start soon, because crate-training should start when the puppy is still young. Although there is nothing more comforting than cuddling up to your puppy on the couch, it is wise to introduce him to a crate for a short time everyday. If you leave him alone while you work or run errands, placing him in a crate with a suitable toy during that time will not only help with housebreaking as any dog resists soiling close to where he has to sleep, but it will also protect him from hazards such as chewing on shoes, toys or electrical chords. At the same time it protects your belongings from the unrepentant damage of puppy teeth.

Even after housebreaking, some dogs benefit from crating. Some dogs that are known to be particularly hyper tend to mature into more relaxed dogs as they age. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety may find comfort in the smaller space of a crate and avoid the worst symptoms.

When implemented correctly, your dog will treat the crate as their own personal space. When the puppy gets sleepy or too excited, they might resort to their crate to relax. Experts say not to use the crate as a punishment, but they may independently go there themselves to calm down.

Even if you have an outdoor dog, crating still can have benefits. There are still times when even the outdoor dog will need to be placed in a crate, such as a kennel, the vet’s office, at a grooming center. Dogs that are used to the crate, even if it isn’t a part of their everyday life, will be less traumatized by the experience.

Remember to not cramp your puppy in the crate. Crates come in several varieties including folding or stationery metal for the house or garage; plastic when traveling with your pet, soft-sided crates to cushion the hurt or injured animal, and there are also crates made to look like furniture. Be sure to select one that will provide adequate ventilation and light for your pet’s comfort.

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