Crate Training

Unless your dog has impeccable house manners, even when your back is turned, crate training is something that’s important to both your dog’s safety and your sanity.  Without teaching your dog to stay in his crate when you can’t supervise him, you risk a plethora of disastrous situations.  I’ve heard horror stories of all kinds, from something as simple as “my dog went to the bathroom everywhere” to dogs that have chewed up hundreds of dollars worth of personal belongings or have gotten into dangerous substances.

The first step in crate training your dog is picking out an appropriately sized crate.  Your dog needs to have enough room to stand up, stretch out, and turn around in, but really doesn’t need (and shouldn’t have) much more than that.  If you have a young puppy and don’t want to be buying new crates every time he grows a few inches, you may want to invest with a wire crate that comes with a divider.  You can move the dividers around in the crate as your puppy grows, and take it out when he reaches maturity. 

Although wire crates are great (and cost effective if you have a growing pup and need that divider), I do recommend a plastic type kennel, such as a Vari.  First and foremost, it creates a den like atmosphere, which will help comfort your dog in dealing with your absence.   On top of that, they are airline approved, so if you ever need to take your dog on a plane, you already have the kennel to do so.  Mesh, or collapsible crates are made only to be used under your supervision, so, for the purpose of this post, let’s forget about them.

After you’ve brought home your kennel, you can begin the training process.  Let your dog get used to the look and feel of the crate.  Entice her to take a step in, by placing treats in there.  Be sure to make this a happy experience for her.  Don’t just throw her in there and walk away.

Now that your dog is becoming accustomed to the crate, you can start leaving him in there.  Always start small.  Place a favorite toy in the crate to offer distraction (a hollow bone or Kong toy filled with peanut butter is always a favorite in this house).  Close the crate door and stand there for a few seconds.  Open the door, and reward with a “good dog” and a few treats.  When he leaves the crate, take that toy away.  Leave the good stuff for when he is in his crate.  Repeat four or five times. 

Your dog is now beginning to associate crate time with that special goody.   Next time you put him in there and close the door, step away for a few minutes.  Remember to start small, so five minutes will be sufficient.  Come back, reward, and take away the crate toy.  Repeat this step a few times, gradually increasing the amount of time you’re gone.   In no time, you can leave for work without worrying about your dog hurting himself or your favorite possessions.  

Keep in mind, though, that the crate is never to be used as punishment.  However, it can be used as a time out if your dog is becoming too rowdy, or needs a break from play after a potty training accident.  Always make it a good experience and leave him that special crate toy.