Some people have a difficult time crate training their puppy because they are uncomfortable leaving him in a cage. However, it will become your pets safe haven, much like a bedroom for a child. This is a place that can offer privacy, comfort and security to your dog. Crate training has many positive attributes:
- Prevents investigative behaviour (getting in to garbage, chewing up house hold objects)
- Aids in house-training
- Easy to transport your dog safely
- Happier when boarding
To make crate training easier for you and your pet, here are a few tips to follow:
- The crate should be large enough for the adult dog to stand up and turn around.
- The crate should be kept in a busy area, (ex: kitchen or bedroom) not in an isolated area.
- Leave the door open and place his favorite items in the crate to allow the puppy to enter on his/her own. Put items such as treats, meals, water and toys in the crate.
- Make going into the crate a positive experience by using treats and toys.
- Do not use the crate as punishment.
- Start by closing the door with the puppy inside for small increments of time when you are at home. If you are busy working around your house this is a good time to place him into the crate so he does not get into any trouble.
- Always wait until your puppy is calm and quite before removing him from the cage. If you remove him while he is barking it will only encourage this behaviour.
- If you are having a difficult time discouraging the barking while in the cage, make a loud noise. Normally the noise will startle your puppy and he will stop barking for a small period of time. During this time remove him from the crate to discourage the barking while in the crate.
- You may put a blanket over the cage to make it seem more comfortable for your pet.
Crate training will help prevent your dog from eating inappropriate items in your house and/or damaging your belongings. It may also be used when an animal is sick to monitor his intake of food and water, vomiting and or diarrhea. This may help Dr. Fetherston diagnose any health condition your dog may have.
