Clever Methods For Crate Training Puppies

 

Crate training is one of the most effective methods to potty train your dog. That is because dogs naturally want to keep their sleeping area clean, thus making them acknowledge much more quickly that the right place to do their business is OUTSIDE the house. Take note, though, that the result from crate training puppies cannot be seen overnight. You'll have to be prepared for weeks of training and occasional "accidents" wherein your puppy will mess up where he isn't supposed to. Here are a few guidelines on how to make crate training work for you:

1. Choose the right crate size. Getting a large crate for a small dog will give him the chance to designate a corner of the crate as his elimination area, thus defeating the purpose of using the crate for potty training. If your puppy belongs to a large breed and you want to save up by buying a large crate in advance, place a divider inside the crate to limit the area in which the puppy can move around.

2. When you first introduce the crate to your puppy, guide him inside and then leave the crate door open. You may toss a treat inside to encourage the puppy to go in. As your dog gets used to the crate, you may close the door for a few minutes at a time. When you notice that your dog has grown to love the crate and goes inside on his own, you may keep the door closed for longer periods.

3. Make the crate comfortable and interesting. You want to encourage your puppy to treat the crate as his den, so be sure to arrange comfortable bedding and his favourite toys inside. You may also want to include a few treats for good measure. Toys and treats will help ensure that your dog is satisfactorily occupied, especially if you have to leave him in the crate while you're out of the house.

4. Keep the crate nearby while you're watching TV or sleeping, especially when your puppy is still getting used to it. This lets the dog know that you're nearby and that you haven't abandoned him. It will also keep him from getting lonely.

5. Follow a daily schedule when you start crate training puppies. This means that you have to let your dog out and clean the crate at the same time each day. You should also guide the dog into the crate at the same time each afternoon and night for his naptime and bedtime. This also includes setting regular bathing and eating schedules.

Those are the basic guidelines you need to follow when crate training puppies. And here are a few additional tips: Start crate training as soon as you bring your dog home. If you use collars on your dog, be sure to remove it before you let him enter the crate, as collars can get stuck between the bars of the crate and hurt your dog's neck when he tries to pull himself free. Finally, be careful not to overdo the giving of treats when crate training your dog.