Crate Training 101
Crate training is one of the first obedience lessons dog owners attempt to accomplish when they welcome a new pup into the family. However, there are many benefits that old dogs can receive from crate training. If you’ve ever wondered why keeping your dog in a kennel is so important, keep reading to get an education in Crate Training 101.
The benefits of crate training
Young and old dogs can benefit from crate training. Generally, when people adopt a new puppy, they’ll implement kennel training to ensure that the young dog doesn’t relieve themselves in the house when the owners are away.
Kennel training an older dog is a great way to prevent separation anxiety. The crate gives a dog a place that’s theirs, so they’re not roaming around the house when you’re not home. Further, it’s a safe and isolated place that is free of dangerous situations. Crate training is excellent for people who work away from home, so you know your dog won’t get into trouble when you’re not around.
Finally, crate training can be excellent for those who work from home, because it gives your dog a space that’s uniquely theirs. The kennel can be a place where your dog can relax or remove themselves from stressful situations. We all need places where we feel safe, and dogs are no different.
How to start crate training
Crate training is a pretty simple process that your pup will likely learn very quickly. The most important thing to remember when crate training your dog is that this should be a fun learning experience. Never put your pup in their kennel as a punishment or a “time out,” as this can make your dog resistant of their kennel.
1. Put the crate in a popular room in the house and leave it open
By having the crate where you spend a lot of time, such as in the living room, your dog won’t feel separated or isolated from the family. Leaving the crate door open can help your dog acclimate to being in and around the crate as they wish. Don’t force your dog to go into the kennel at this stage; instead, put their bed and toys inside, and let them explore as they see fit.
2. Feed your dog in the crate
In addition to keeping the crate in a popular room in your house, you should start feeding your dog in the kennel. Put their food and water bowls just inside the door. They’ll quickly associate the crate as a place where they can eat and get nourishment, which will help them feel more positive about it.
3. Start training a crate command
Start training your dog to go into the crate and use a command for that behavior. You can do this by using a treat to lure your dog into the kennel and feeding them the treat once they’re entirely inside. While doing this behavior, use the trigger word like “crate,” “bed,” or “house.” Your dog will quickly learn that your trigger word means they should go into their kennel and then wait to be released.
4. Put your dog in the crate for short periods of time
Once your dog is familiar with the “crate” command, you can start putting them in their crate for short periods. Make sure your pup enjoys their time in the kennel. Giving your dog a puzzle toy when they’re in the crate, or even a long-time treat like a KONG, will help them learn to love their time in the crate. Don’t leave your pup in the kennel too long while initially training as this can make them start to feel anxious.
5. Lengthen your dog’s time in the crate
The last step in this process is to increase your dog’s time in the crate slowly. In some circumstances, you might find that your dog can stand being in the kennel longer than others. For example, your dog might have no problem being in their crate throughout the night but might struggle to make it for long periods throughout the day.
A great way to help your dog acclimate to being in the crate is to put them in it at different times and situations. You can put your dog in the kennel so that they calm down after playtime or to enjoy special treats. Never force your dog to be in their kennel longer than necessary.
Now that you’ve covered Crate Training 101, you’re ready to start training your dog how to love their kennel. This process can be stressful, and some dog owners feel bad about putting their dog in a kennel for several hours. However, now that you know the benefits, you can proceed confidently, knowing you’re doing the best for your pup.
