Crate Training Dog
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. Remember this is for training so if he begins to act up you should not let him out. Be patient and let him calm down and then you can let him out. Do this exercise for a couple of days until he has learned to enter the crate and leave it on his own.
Many people protest against crate training a dog because, according to them, it is similar to solitary confinement. Still, the benefits to crate training your dog mentioned in this article, and several other benefits that we will not take the time to explore, show this to be a good method for both the owner and their 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.
Crate training is based on the instinct of the dog to find some security with den nesting places that are isolated from all distractions. For dogs, a den can serve as their home. Your dog will respond well to your patience and use of correct techniques when training them to use the crate.
Benefits of Using a Crate
a) For occasions when the dog cannot run around freely, placing them in a crate will be a good choice for controlling their movements.
b) Dogs will begin to feel secure inside the crate and appreciate the safety zone it provides when they are in an unfamiliar place.
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) This could also be good for dogs with separation anxiety.
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 can enhance training by giving your dog a sense of consistency and guidance for routine activities.
Size Does Matter
The crate should be large enough to accommodate the dog on all fours, to let him lie down comfortably and to give him enough space to turn around without hitting the walls. It is also important to know that if you plan on traveling you will want to consider purchasing a slightly larger crate.
However, when a crate is used for just training purposes, they do not need to be so large that the dog can move around in it and maybe do something undesirable inside it.
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.
