Crate Training for Your Puppy

By Robert Forto, PhD

One of the most common training questions asked to us at Denver Dog Works in Colorado is: "How do I house-train my puppy?" While there are many different ways to accomplish this task one tried and true way I have found that works is crate training. Some may say that it is cruel and unnatural. That is the furthest from the truth. I have enclosed I brief outline of how to introduce your puppy to a crate, Of course if you have any questions do not hesitate to give us a call at Denver Dog Works at 303-752-2818 anytime.

One of the best items you could purchase for yourself, as well as, your dog is the dog crate. This crate can be made of wire, metal, plastic, and/or collapsible nylon and mesh. All are easy to clean. This crate can help solve behavior problems, provide safety for your dog, and can become your dogs inside home when appropriate times occur.

Wild canines will secure a small, snugly fitting space to call its own. This space represents security to the dog. In its "den" it cannot be attacked or bothered, so it is able to completely relax. We use this instinctive desire for a secure den to make our crate training a very effective training aid.

ASK YOUR TRAINER ABOUT THE PROPER SIZE FOR YOUR DOG.

To introduce your dog to its crate, prop the door open and allow the dog to explore the confines of the crate. Placing food or the dogs' favorite objects inside will encourage him to step inside. When your dog is comfortable with this, close the door for a few minutes, then let him out and DO NOT make a big deal about letting him out. Each time you put your dog on its crate, increase the time it is confined. Both you and your dog should think of the crate as a safe haven, NOT a prison. Once you have experienced the benefits of crate training your dog, you will question how you ever lived without this wonderful training aid.

USES FOR YOUR CRATE

1. It is very effective when house training puppies. Puppies instinctively will not soil their bed.
2. Use your crate for TIME OUT when your puppy or dog is just too wound up.
3. Use your crate as prevention to your puppy making mistakes when you're not able to watch.
4. Use you crate to confine your dog for a few minutes prior to a training session.
5. Use your crate while transporting your dog in your vehicle; this is the safest place for a dog.
6. Your crate makes a great bed for your dog.
7. If your dog is a chewer, use your crate as a safe place of confinement with some safe toys.
8. Some dogs are finicky eaters; placing their food in the crate lets them concentrate more on the food.
9. You can use the crate to separate dogs during feeding time, as well as people meal times.
10. Shipping your dog by air is much easier if he/she has been taught to use a crate.
11. If your dog is ever in need to stay overnight at a veterinarian clinic it helps your dog remain calm in very stressful situations.

When introducing the crate to your puppy or dog place it in a quiet area where he/she will not be bothered or startled. This will help with training him/her that their "den" is their safe place to be.

Don't wait until the last minute to introduce your dog to its crate, make it a part of your training plan today!

Dr. Robert Forto is the training director for Denver Dog Works in Colorado . His training school offers monthly puppy kindergarten classes staring on the first Saturday of each month. If you are interested in training your dog the natural way give Dr. Forto a call at 303-752-2818 or check out his website at www.denverdogworks.com.