It Really Is A Good Idea To Crate Train Your Dog

Crate training, or kennel training as it is sometimes called, is a very important tool for you and your dog. A crate can be a small wire pen or one of the great plastic travel cases that come in all sizes these days. If your dog has been properly crate trained, he will feel safe and comfortable when he is in the crate. It will be a relief for him and for you to have a place he can go to sleep or just have a place to go to when he wants to be alone in his own little space.

When your dog is crate trained it is a lot easier to travel with him. Traveling with your dog in his crate will be a lot less stressful for you and for him. It will take away a portion of the uncertainty your dog feels that comes with being away from home.

Adopted dogs may have a more difficult time accepting this type of training, but it is seldom difficult to teach a puppy. As for puppies, crates are a great way to contain him until his regular training is complete. Puppies can get into a lot of trouble when you don't have the time to keep a constant eye on them. They can pick up bad habits that they won't have a chance to do if they are in a crate.

A dog that has been crate trained from a puppy will probably find it to be his favorite place. If the crate is going to be his favorite place, you should never use it as a form of discipline. It should only be used as a place where they are happy, content, and safe.

To start your kennel training, put comfortable bedding, a couple of your dog's favorite toys, and a food treat in the crate. Leave the door open in an area where you dog is most of the time. His curiosity will get the better of him and he will more than likely get into the crate without you having to force him.

While he is playing in the crate, close the door for a few minutes so he gets used to the door being closed. When he starts going into the crate on his own, used the verbal command "go to bed" or "go to your crate" every time he goes in. He will eventually learn the command if you use it every time he heads for the crate.

Never crate a puppy for more than a couple of hours a day, and always exercise him before he goes in. Play with him and praise him when you take him out of the crate and be sure to let him outside so he can take care of business.