How To Crate Train Your Dog In Nine Easy Steps

Key Points

• Crate training your dog does not imply “imprisoning” him. They have their own private space, which reduces tension.
• Use treats and fun activities to positively associate with the crate.
• Train your training; regular crate training may take six months.

To have a well-mannered dog who goes to the bathroom outside and doesn’t destroy things, dog crate training is an essential first step. When housed in a crate, your dog will have a safe environment and a private space.

Although many view crates from the human perspective of being “caged up,” dogs are naturally denning creatures. Most of them love living in small, enclosed areas. Bins can assist in reducing anxiety because they give animals a sense of security when used correctly, and they are taught to use them early.

We chatted with a senior dog trainer with PUPS Pet Club in Chicago, Anna Clayton, for advice on crate training your dog.

First, choose the ideal crate for your dog.

It’s crucial to choose the best crate for your dog.

Whatever training you perform, you should develop a strong, cozy, and flexible body, says Clayton. She advises utilizing kennel or airplane crates for dogs who prefer to sleep in the dark instead of wire crates for other dogs because they are more contained. She stresses how important it is to refrain from getting a box that is too big for your dog. She advises that you get a crate that will accommodate your dog’s mature size based on how big they are anticipated to reach. The response was, “Then get a separator so you can widen the space and give them more space.”

Step 2: Form the proper mentality.

The more the dogs associate their crate with a carefree attitude, the more they’ll eventually enjoy spending time inside, says Clayton. The dog will want to play again if you lock them in the crate while they are having fun. When you bring them inside, however, they will probably perceive it as a tranquil retreat if you do so when they are calm. Bring them in for 10 minutes at a time and work your way up from there.

In step three, determine how your dog will feel most at ease.

Some people use dog beds or towels to create a pleasant environment, but it may not always be the best option. Trial and error is still the method. She advises that, depending on the breed, a dog can ruin a dog bed or urinate on it. It’s OK if they sleep on the crate mat itself. Dogs prefer hard surfaces.

Step 4: Give the dog a treat as soon as they get inside the crate.

Positive connection reigns once more. One of Clayton’s favorite pranks is giving the dog a frozen, peanut butter-filled Kong toy. She lounges in the crate and says, “They have something to stimulate them, but they must work down the frozen peanut butter.” It helps the dog associate the box with enjoyable activities and gets used to spending more time there.

Step 5: Keep track of the time.

Your dog needs time outside the crate to play, eat, and go potty. Even though dogs prefer not to urinate where they sleep, if it has been too long since their last stroll, they could give in.

Play Crate Games in Step 6.

The crate shouldn’t make the dog think that it is terrible. Include the box in fun activities where the dog can freely enter and depart the open trunk to achieve this. Clayton likes throwing the ball inside the container or hiding treats inside for the dog to uncover when playing fetch.

In step 7, keep your dog “bare.”

Clayton advises that dogs should never, ever wear collars, tags, or any other accessories while they are in the crate. If the label became stuck in the box, the dog ran the risk of strangulation.

Step 8: Set Your Dog Up for Success

Give incremental steps when you’re ready to increase your dog’s time in the crate. You shouldn’t go out to supper for six hours, Flayton cautions. “Maybe just get a cup of coffee and then come back,” she suggested. She also advises using a recording device to determine your dog’s movements while you are away. “Are they anxious? Are they pacing? Or are they content? “she says. You can give them a reward when you return since you know.

Take your time in Step 9.

Prepare yourself for at least six months of training. There will be ups and downs because dogs don’t learn linearly, but Flayton says success will eventually come. Even though it seems like you’re up against a brick wall, if you stay calm and keep trying, your dog will ultimately look for the treat, giving you the chance to reward them.