To begin crate training your dog you need to let them get used to it before locking them inside. You could walk away from him or watch him as he calms down inside. If he shows any signs of protest, you should not let him outside. Instead, let him settle down first then let him leave after awhile. You will need to do this process several time until they learn to enter and leave the crate by themselves.
Many people protest against crate training a dog because, according to them, it is similar to solitary confinement. However, with the benefits mentioned below and other benefits not listed in this article, may help you to conclude that crate training could benefit both owner and his dog.
People who take the right approach to crate training puppies will help their dog or puppy realize it to be a safe place for them to rest and not something to fear.
This type of training is based on the idea of a den or nesting place where dogs can go in order to feel safe and secluded. Dens are what dogs naturally seek for in a home. Your dog will respond well to your patience and use of correct techniques when training them to use the crate.
Why You Should Use a Crate
a) There are times when you can not let your dog run around freely and a crate is a great way to keep them with you, while controlling them at the same time.
b) The dog will feel relatively safe inside the crate especially when located in places where they are most vulnerable.
c) The crate quickly becomes a familiar place to rest and retreat too from things that make them uncomfortable.
d) A crate could also be used to limit dogs with problem behaviors.
e) It is also a good place for puppies that are still untrained and might cause some trouble within the home such as biting.
f) If your dog has separation anxieties, once they become familiar with their crate they will be able to calm down better.
g) It could secure the dog whenever the owner has to bring him outside.
h) It increases his confidence due to the security it provides.
i) Crates could enhance training by giving the dog a better sense of direction for routine activities.
Size of the Crate
You will need to choose a crate that allows the dog enough room to stand up and lie down comfortably, without him hitting his head or body against the walls or door all the time. However, if you also intend to use the crate for travel, the crate should be larger than the regular above mentioned size.
If you are using the crate for training only, it should follow the guidelines that was just mentioned, since a larger crate would give him enough room to do unwanted things in the crate.
How to introduce the crate to the dog
The best time to introduce the crate to a dog is when you feel that they are ready for it. After buying the right crate, you could place it somewhere in the house where it would catch the dog’s attention. Let him explore his crate first for the first week with the door removed.
Some dogs will not show any interest in the crate so you may want to perk their interest by putting a favorite toy or treat inside. After a couple of days, try feeding your dog inside the crate. This will condition his mind that the crate is for him and he can safely go inside it without fearing any harm.
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