Crate Training for Puppies

Crate training a puppy is relatively painless as compared to training an adult dog. You can begin training your puppy immediately. You don’t have to delay it until he grows older. In fact, you can begin crate training as soon as you get your puppy home. The crate training method is advocated by vets and animal behaviorists as an effective means to housebreak a puppy.

The size of the crate is an important consideration while crate training a puppy. It shouldn’t be too large or too small. It should be big enough to allow your dog to stand up, turn and lie in it. Ideally, you should get a crate that is large enough to hold the full grown dog that your puppy will become. Initially, when your pet is still a puppy you can block off some of the area so that it’s just sufficient for your puppy and no bigger. If the crate is too large, your puppy will feel encouraged to litter in one part of it and rest in the other which is the last thing you want. So be careful and select a crate of an appropriate size.

Another thing to be taken into account is the duration of time to confine a puppy to a cage. Young pups will not be able to stay in the crate for long periods of time. They need to relieve themselves frequently. A two month old puppy will be able to stay put in a crate only for a couple of hours. So ensure that you let your pup out of the crate frequently.

Most pups will take to the crate without much ado. However some will show reluctance to get into the crate. In this case you can use treats to convince your pet that the crate is nice comfortable place to be in. Place food treats inside the crate so that your pet will get in of his own accord. After some time you can also give commands to get your dog into the crate. For example “In your den” or “In your house” are the commands you could use.

The crate should not be placed in a secluded corner. This is because pups need security and warmth. Avoid keeping the crate in areas like the kitchen, corridors or any place that is highly trafficked. The crate should be kept in a location that is peaceful and quiet but at the same time one that gives the pup a feeling of comfort and security. In the morning, you can keep the crate in your drawing room and it can be shifted into your bedroom at night.

Once the puppy gets used to being in a crate, then things become simpler. Meals should be given strictly on time. Feeding your dog on time ensures that he eliminates in a regular pattern. So this will give you a fair idea of when he needs to be taken outside to relieve himself. Puppies have to be released from their crates after napping. So take them out to relieve themselves first thing in the morning. They may need to eliminate even after activities like playing, drinking water or eating. Keep track and make sure that you take them out at the appropriate times.

If your puppy begins whining in the night don’t go to offer solace. Instead, approach him when he is silent. This will send a message that you’ll come when he is quiet and not when he starts whining and wants you near. Also, never punish a puppy in the crate. Remember, you want your pup to view the crate as a safe and comfy refuge where he can be at peace.

If you are vigilant, alert and consistent your pup will be crate trained and house broken in a matter of weeks. Not all pups are the same and some will take longer than others to be crate trained. But once they get used to it, you can relax knowing that your pet is secure even when you are not at home.