How to Crate Train Your Dog

puppy_crate_training Dogs have an instinctual desire for a den. The den gives them a feeling of safety and security. Effective crating of your dog depends on your ability to make your chosen crate into his desired den. Crates come in three basic types: wire, solid, and cloth. Wire works well if you live in hot, humid climes and need something that collapses. Some dogs prefer a crate with visibility. Solid-plastic crates work better for dogs that prefer privacy. If you have travel plans that include your dog, check crate requirements and restrictions on the airlines you normally use and buy your crate accordingly. Cloth crates have the advantage of seclusion, collapsibility, and light weight.

Pick a size that allows just enough room for an adult dog of your breed to lay down, turn around, stand, and get a drink. Making it too large encourages defecation in the crate. Ideally one would have several crates to match the size of a growing dog, but costs prohibit that for most of us. Extra care and attention with your puppy will avoid most “accidents.” Chose the crate that best balances your needs against the needs of your dog.

Keep everything about your crate positive. Never use the crate as a punishment, never punish a dog in the crate, never punish your dog outside the crate for something done in the crate. Remember you want to create a den. Locate the crate near you to start. Stay in the room. The dog will view isolation as negative. Wire the door to the crate open. Your dog should have the freedom to come and go as he pleases.

Use positive incentives such as treats, toys, water, and a soft blanket to lure your dog into the crate. Never push your dog into the crate. Make it their idea. Praise them for going into their crate. Allow them to come right back out of the crate without any hint of disapproval. Get them used to the crate over several days. Take your time. After your dog gets used to the crate, shut the door for a few minutes. Stay in the room with them. Start with fifteen to thirty minutes the first time.

At this point the savvy owner needs to understand the age appropriate capabilities of their pet. A baby dog physically has less bladder and sphincter control then an adult dog. Only a cruel parent would punish their baby for dirtying his diaper, and yet dog owners will sometimes punish a baby dog for going in his crate. Prior to allowing your pet to enter the crate, make sure that they have ample opportunity to empty their bladder and bowels. Confine them in the crate in accordance with the age rated capabilities.
9-10 weeks

Approximately 30-60 minutes

11-14 weeks

Approximately 1-3 hours

15-16 weeks

Approximately 3-4 hours

17 + weeks

Approximately 4+ hours *

*Never confine any dog more than five hours in a crate. Figures taken from the American Dog Trainer's Network (http://www.inch.com/~dogs/cratetraining.html)