How to Crate Train a Pet

Crate training your dog or puppy can help to housebreak them as well.

Crate training your dog provides several benefits. Crates provide the dog with a "den," an area to go to for safety. Crate training can also help to housebreak a dog and dogs who are comfortable in crates are easier to transport. While some dogs take to a crate without much resistance, others require longer training and more patience. The younger your dog is when you begin crate training, the easier it will be for you and him.

Things You'll Need

• Blanket or towel
• Toys
• Treats

Instructions

1. Lay a blanket or soft towel in the crate to make it comfortable for your pet. Leave the door open or take it off and place the crate in a common area of your home where he spends a lot of time. Let your dog explore the crate on his own.

2. Place your dog's favorite toys or treats inside the crate if he does not want to go inside at first. It may take several days before he will enter the crate, especially if you are trying to crate train an older animal. Be patient and don't force your dog into the crate.

3. Reposition your dog's food and water dishes near or inside the crate so he begins to associate the crate with positive things. Help your dog get used to the crate being closed by feeding him inside the crate and gently closing the door for a few minutes while he eats.

4. Encourage your dog to go into the crate by offering him a treat or toy. Once he is inside, gently close and latch the door. Remain near the crate for five to ten minutes and then leave his sight for another five to ten minutes. Return next to the crate and wait several minutes before opening the door, even if your dog whines or howls. Gradually increase the amount of time you stay away from the crate. This will help get your dog used to being alone in the crate and will teach him not to expect you to open the crate immediately upon your return.

Tips & Warnings

• Select a crate that gives your dog room to stand up and turn around without much extra room if you want to use the crate to help housebreak the dog. If the crate is too large, your dog may relieve itself at one end of the crate and lie at the other.

• Do not leave young puppies in a crate for more than three or four hours, as they cannot physically control their bladders and bowels that long.

• Remove collars from your pet before crating him if you are going to be out of the house. The collar could get stuck in the wires and choke your pet.

• Consult a veterinarian or pet behavioral specialist if your dog gets destructive or overly anxious in the crate. Your dog may hurt itself by scratching or biting at the bars.

• Do not use the crate as punishment. If your dog starts to associate the crate with your displeasure, it will be harder to get him to stay inside the crate.

References

• The Humane Society: Crate Training
• American Dog Trainers Network: Crate Training