How to Crate Train Your Dog

Crate training is a great way to protect your dog or puppy from getting into trouble while you are away. Many people also crate their dogs at night. A crate feels safe to your dog, because it is similar to the feeling of a private den.

A young puppy often has weak bladder control, which will get stronger as he grows. A dog will avoid soiling his kennel once he has full bladder control, so I recommend getting a crate large enough for the adult size dog to stand up, stretch, and turn around easily. Since you might be gone for hours, he needs to be able to get comfortable while you are away.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Crate
• Dog bed
• Coop cups (food and water dishes that hang on the crate)
• Old newspaper
• Safe chew toys
• Patience

1. Set up the crate with newspaper in the bottom. Place the dog bed in the back of the crate. Try to get a bed that is made with thick foam, to cushion your dog against the hard floor of the crate. Hang the coop cups near the front of the crate. Fill one 3/4 of the way with water. The dog may spill the water if it is too full when he is first learning to relax in the crate.

2. Let your dog or puppy investigate the the crate on his own. Do not try to force the dog into the crate. If he goes into the crate on his own, praise him. Once he is comfortable entering the crate, practice shutting the door and waiting. After a few minutes, open the door again. Praise your dog.

3. Use a word like 'Crate', or 'Bed' when you ask your dog to enter the crate. Soon, he will learn what you are asking. Feed your dog only from the coop cup inside the crate. You do not need to close the door unless you prefer to do so. By feeding the dog only in his crate, he will associate the crate with good things.

4. Plan to go on a short trip of about an hour, and place the dog inside the crate. Make sure he cannot reach any electrical cords or anything else that might endanger his life. Make sure he has water. As soon as you return, take your dog outside for a potty break. Praise him if he goes outside.

5. If your dog has soiled his crate while you were gone, do not punish him. He will not understand why he is being punished unless you catch him in the act. Just clean up the soiled newspaper and replace it with a clean set. Be consistent and patient with your dog. Be sure to praise your dog when he does not soil the crate.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a young puppy, do not leave him in the crate more than a few hours at a time without a break. Have a friend or family member come over to let him out to go potty and play for a while before putting him back into the crate. As your puppy grows, he will be able to remain in the crate for longer periods of time.
• Always check to make sure your dog will be safe in his crate while you are gone. Check toys for damage, and check for hazards that may be near the crate.