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Do's and Dont's: How to Crate Train Your Dog

What is a Crate?

A crate is also known as a Pet Carrier, or one brand known as Pet Taxi. An enclosure for your dog, that, when trained properly, he finds as a sanctuary, and a safe, "den like" environment where he can rest and feel comfortable. The crate should only be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Any more room than that, and house training will be more difficult, as they can defecate/urinate in one end, and sleep in the other.

Why a Crate?

Crates are a wonderful tool for training. They work the same way as a playpen does for a child. When the pup/dog cannot be directly supervised, they are in the crate. This prevents things like chewing inappropriate items (shoes,electrical cords,etc), using the bathroom in the house, and provides a safe place for your dog.

What if my dog whines, barks, or cries when in the crate?

If you have just gotten your pup/dog, and you have put them in the crate for the first time, they will whine. In fact, some dogs will do their best to get you to let them out. This can include, but is not limited to, crying, whining, barking, screaming, clawing, ramming, and throwing an overall temper-tantrum. IGNORE THEM. If you run in to them every time they make a sound, you will only make your life harder. How do you help them LOVE their crate? Make it fun to be in. Invest in a safe chew toy for them to have in their crate. Something to keep them busy. A blanket is good for comfort, as well.

How do I start?

When you are first training your dog, leave the crate open. When they go in to investigate, give lots of praise, and a treat. Also, have their toy in the crate already. They will eventually associate "Every time go in here, I find a toy, and get a treat!" After a few rounds of this, close the door to the crate for about 1 minute. If they don't make a sound, let them out with more praise. Gradually work up the time that the door is closed. If they do make a sound, do not respond with anything....don't say "NO" or "Oh honey, its ok" or anything of the sort....you are just promoting the bad behavior. Some people even feed their dogs in their crates....this is a great idea in helping train the dog. This also helps with multiple dog households, as it prevents fighting, and fast eaters from gobbling up someone else's food.
When it comes to house training your pup, crates are the ticket. Of course, you take your pup out after eating, and playing...but where to put him to nap? In the crate!! He can go there to rest, without you having to worry "Is he peeing somewhere in the house?" When his nap is over, immediately take him outside to potty. If he doesn't go within 10-15 minutes, he goes back into the crate. Depending on the age of your pup, the length of time before you let him out again will vary. But typically the wait time is 20 minutes. After that time, take him out again. If he goes...WOOHOO!! Praise like crazy and treat. Then, he gets free time inside for doing a great job!

Crate training is also great for traveling, and vet visits. Dogs that are crate trained board better, and when they have to stay overnight with the vet, they have less anxiety due to being comfortable in a crate.