Crate training can be difficult; some puppies can get anxious and avoid their crate if not done correctly. As many people work and/or go to school, it is important to have the option to put your dog in a crate. Below are some steps you as an owner may want to take when crate training your puppy.
- The first step to crate training is picking out a crate and introducing your dog in a positive way to that space. You probably want to pick a crate that your puppy can use for the rest of his life or as long as that crate remains safe for the puppy to avoid having to reintroduce a different crate when they are older.
- When introducing your puppy, you want to keep the experience positive for yourself and the puppy. Do not try to force the puppy to the crate that may make the memory of the crate unpleasant for them. Make the crate comfortable for them.
- Try putting a blanket or towel in there so they can remain comfortable. You can try tossing treats, a favourite toy or feeding meals in the crate to coax the puppy inside.
- You want to be gradual about the amount of time you leave your puppy in the crate alone, and start to give an instruction such as “crate” or “crate time.” Same idea as any training you want to reward them for completing the command.
- Try not to make a big deal about leaving them alone or coming back when they’re in the crate because they may begin to associate being in the crate with being left alone and that is something to try and avoid. While this may be frustrating your puppy may take a few days or maybe even weeks to warm up to the kennel, on the other hand, your puppy may be excited to go into the kennel, but this doesn’t always happen.
If you have any questions, give us a call at 902.477.4040.
Written by: Mariah Ierullo, CCS
