Pup cage
You might be thinking about adding a new furry family member to your pack soon. But before you dive in, there are a few things you need to know about dog crates.
Crate training can be a challenging task (even for experienced dog owners), but it’s certainly achievable with the right approach! Let’s take a look at how you can start training your pup on the road to being happy and comfortable in his little den away from home:
Introducing Your Puppy to Their Crate
Your puppy should also be familiar with the crate before you use it for training purposes. You can take them on a tour of their new home and let them sniff around in each room, including the room where the crate will be. Place a treat in it so that when they go inside it and explore the inside of their new home.
Praise Your Puppy for Exploring Their Crate
- Praise your puppy when they enter their crate.
- Praise your puppy when they exit the crate.
- Praise your puppy when they stay in the crate for a period of time longer than they had in the past.
Taking the above steps will further reinforce that the crate is a safe space for your pup.
Feed Your Puppy in the Crate
Now that your puppy is comfortable in his crate, it’s time to start feeding him there. This will get them used to their crate and let them know that it is a safe space.
Encourage Naptime in the Crate
When your puppy is tired, they will naturally want to sleep somewhere quiet and safe. You can encourage naptime in the dog crate by placing it in a quiet place where your puppy is likely to feel comfortable. If you notice that your puppy seems tired, let them sleep in their crate if they’re ready.
Take it Slow and Expect the Unexpected
Training your puppy to use a crate takes time, patience, and consistency. It’s important not to rush the process or force your puppy into the crate. If you try too hard, he’ll resist even more. The last thing you want to do is rush your pup and make them afraid of their crate. Every puppy is different and moves at a different pace through the training process.
The best thing about crate training is that it can start as soon as your puppy arrives home. The sooner you get started, the better off both of you will be. And remember: positive reinforcement and patience are key! If you have any questions or concerns along the way, don’t hesitate to consult a professional for advice on how to proceed safely.
For more in-depth information about crate training your new pup, check out our other blogs on the topic found here.