One of the best ways to raise a puppy that is well-behaved and has confidence is through crate training. Many first time dog owners are confused regarding the use of a crate, however once introduced properly to the puppy, it can become a safe and comfortable environment for the puppy. In fact, puppies see their crate as a relaxing and secure area rather than feeling restrained to that area.
The American Kennel Club also advises that crate training aids with house training, minimizes anxiety and minimizes destructive behaviours. This guide has been created to assist puppy owners with the basics of how to safely and effectively introduce a puppy to a crate.
What is Crate Training and Why is it Important
Veterinarian professionals affiliated with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommend crate training beginning with your puppy because it uses your dog’s instinctive behaviours as a form of structure. Dogs tend to look for small, enclosed spaces, for protection; similar to how a wild dog would do when looking for safety in their den.
Crate training is a great training tool for new puppy owners who are still learning how to manage their puppy’s actions. This training creates a structure and routine in a puppy’s daily life. Puppies have a natural inclination to find comfortable sleeping areas. A crate can be an ideal area where they don’t have outside distractions so that they can feel comfortable and relaxed.
Role of Crate Training in Puppy Training Problems
House training is an essential part of the puppy training process. Since they typically do not soil their own sleeping areas, your puppy will have little difficulty learning to control their bladder and develop the ability to go on their scheduled potty breaks. Having a good routine will help your puppy get all of the necessary amounts of rest during their first months of development.
Will Aid in:
- Avoiding Destructive Actions
- Creating a Daily Routine
- Managing Your Puppy’s Activity Level
Benefits of Crate Training for Your Puppy
There are many practical advantages of crate training and establishing a good training technique with your puppy. Crate training is an important part of developing a well-trained family member by providing a structure environment to help them to acquire their needs. It is particularly useful for puppies during their early formative years.
According to the Humane Society of the United States, crate training significantly reduces a young dog from experiencing anxiety while allowing the puppy to create a positive experience. It is also beneficial for creating their daily routine when to rest, eat, and play.
Creating a Better Behaving & Disciplining Your Puppy
One of the most significant advantages of crate training is improved behaviour. In addition to having a place to take a nap when left alone, puppies who are crate trained have less of an inclination to chew shoes, furniture, etc. Through this controlled atmosphere, pups can learn their limits and control their bad habits more efficiently during the course of time.
Traveling with Your Dog and Keeping Them Safe
Crate training will also allow you to crate train your pup to travel. This reduces stress when traveling to the vet or wherever you may be going can be less of a hassle when they know how to use a crate. It also reduces stress while visiting the veterinarian.
Choosing the Right Crate
A crate that is poorly picked can make crate training very difficult. Many pet care professional will tell you that when selecting a crate, look for one that allows for your pup to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Brands such as MidWest Homes for Pets and Petmate are all excellent crates for starter crate training.
The type and material of the crate are very important such as how much fresh air the dog receives and how long the crate will hold up. There are many different crate options available. They include wire (also called a folding or expanding type), plastic and soft-sided crates.
Crate Options
- Wire crates promote air flow and visibility
- Plastic crates provide a den-like environment
- Soft-sided crates are lightweight and portable
Growth-Friendly Crates
As your puppy grows, crates with an adjustable divider can be an investment to grow with your puppy. Gradual introduction of crate training ensures your puppy adapts comfortably over time.
Proper Introduction of the Crate
Use treats and toys to encourage your puppy. Leave door open, while introducing to puppy allow puppy to explore the crate without direction. Another great way to create a possible association with the crate is by placing food near or even within the crate for your puppy to eat.
One of the best ways to reinforce positive behaviour in your puppy entering the crate is to provide him or her with treats and verbal praise when entering the crate. With time, your puppy will voluntarily enter the crate.
Use Soft Bedding
Provide your puppy with treats and toys. Beginners often make mistakes, your puppy’s change to its new surroundings can be made easier by using a calming approach, and you can do this without putting stress or anxiety on them.
Measuring Crate Training Success
Experts on dog behavior from the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) cite positive behavior as the single best way to measure how successful the crate training was for your puppy. Puppies that choose to enter their crate on their own are going to create an environment that promotes good habits.
The body language of your puppy is another thing to consider while measuring success. Your puppy’s willingness to calmly enter the crate and remains calm once the door is securely closed demonstrates success.
Behaviors That Indicate Success
- Enters crate of his own accord
- Sleeps calmly in the crate
- Displays no signs of anxiety
- Feels safe in their crate
Continued Success After Training Is Complete
The crate not only continues to benefit your puppy’s basic training but will also help to create a successful relationship between you, the owner, and your puppy through positive behavior while using the crate.
Summary
Crate training provides structure, comfort, and safety for your puppy while improving behavior and reducing anxiety. When introduced correctly and used consistently, it becomes an essential part of raising a well-adjusted and disciplined dog.
