Crate training is an important component of puppy training. Crate training helps your pup establish a routine, learn the house rules, and become potty trained. The crate also serves as a safe place where your puppy can go for an escape from the rest of the house. It is a space which is his own, where he can relax. Additionally, transporting your puppy will become easier if he is properly crate trained. Your puppy might not like crates at first, so it is important to train him in a way which removes any fear he might have. Here are some tips to help you when crate training your puppy.
1. Introduce The Crate Slowly
Place the crate in an area where you spend the most time, such as the living room. The crate should be like any other piece of furniture in your home. Be sure not to lock your puppy inside the crate as soon as you bring the crate home. Instead, introduce your puppy to the crate slowly. Make the crate comfortable by placing a dog bed and some toys inside. Keep the crate door open and secured, allowing your puppy to explore the crate. Some puppies will go sniffing around the crate out of curiosity, while others might shy away. Start by tossing treats near or into the crate, so he isn’t intimidated by the presence of the crate. Use crate commands to get your dog to go inside the crate such as ‘’crate’’ or “go to bed.” Your goal should be to make going inside the crate a positive and happy experience for your puppy. This could take time, so remember to be patient throughout the process.
2. Feed Meals In The Crate
Start feeding your puppy regular meals near the crate. Your puppy will associate the crate to this positive experience. Gradually decrease the distance of the food dish from the crate and place it inside when your puppy feels comfortable. Once he starts to eat his meals inside the crate, close the door. Open the door once he finishes his meal. If he starts whining, wait for him to stop whining before opening the crate door. The idea is to increase the length of time he spends in the crate. Leave him inside the crate a few minutes longer after each consecutive meal.
3. Extend Crating Periods
Confine your puppy to the crate starting with short periods of time. Do this while you’re at home. You can show him a treat, point towards the crate, and say a command, such as “Go to bed”. Praise your puppy when he enters the crate and close the door. Initially, sit outside the crate and then go to another room within the house and return in some time. Overtime you should increase the length of time you leave him inside the crate out of your sight. This will help desensitize your dog and ensure he will not feel anxious about being left inside the crate when the door is closed and you’re not around.
4. Crate Your Pup When You Leave The House
Observe your puppy for signs of anxiety and fear. If he is able to spend 30 minutes comfortably inside the crate, you can leave him in the crate when you’re not in the house. However, start off with shorter periods of time. Keep his favorite toys and treats inside the crate so he remains entertained while you are away. Departures should not be emotional, nor should returning be exciting. Keep these low-key so that your puppy does not get anxious at the thought of your absence.
5. Use The Crate At Night
As a dog parent, you will want to get a good night’s sleep, knowing that your dog is in a safe place. The crate can become your puppy’s home within the house. He should be able to associate the crate as his place to relax and retreat. Initially, place the crate next to your bed at night time so your puppy feels safe and comfortable sleeping through the night. Once he begins to sleep comfortably throughout the night, you can gradually move the crate to your preferred location within the house.
Cate training can be very helpful!
Crate training can prevent your puppy from displaying destructive behaviors around the house, such as chewing on shoes, furniture, or the carpet. Visit http://www.d3home.com. It will also ensure your puppy remains safe and doesn’t eat something he shouldn’t while unsupervised. Never use the crate as a means for punishment. Your puppy must relate the crate with pleasant things and his go-to safe den. As a dog parent, crate training is a way you can establish structure and consistency around the house. Crate training your puppy might seem challenging at first, but it is well worth the effort.
Buster and Whiskers is a Dog Walking Service, Dog Training Service, and Dog Hiking Service located in Astoria, NY. We offer affordable and quality Dog Walking Services, Dog Training Services, and Dog Hiking Services in Astoria, Queens, NY. Contact us if you need a reliable and professional Dog Walker in Astoria.
