A Few Tips on Crate Training Puppies for the New Owner

It is a common misconception that crate training puppies is a cruel practice. This is untrue as long as the dog has adequate exercise and a chance to go outside before placing him in the crate.

Crate training puppies is also effective for potty training.

The natural instinct of a dog is to not eliminate in its personal space. By using the crate, a puppy can be taught the proper places to eliminate.

Crate training puppies can also help to control the cost of repairs due to chewing, digging and other typical destructive behaviors of an overactive young dog. Crates also help the pet become accustomed to traveling, boarding and veterinary care.

Care should be taken when crate training puppies. It is important for the puppy to have plenty of room to stand and turn around in. Unless you wish to purchase different sizes, get a crate that will accommodate your puppy’s expected adult size. When crate training puppies, the crate should be kept as a positive enjoyable retreat.

If the family is going to be gone for an extended period of time during the day, make the puppy feel less alone by leaving a radio or television playing.

This will often calm the pet and avoid problem behaviors such as barking; chewing, and self inflicted wounds from boredom licking.

Introduce your puppy to his or her crate as early as possible. Leaving treats, toys and food are recommended. This will often encourage your puppy to enter it on his own.

The first crating should be after a period of play or exercise and an elimination trip outside. The puppy will be tired and more likely to take a nap.

Encourage him to enter the crate on his own with plenty of praise and rewards. If your puppy refuses to enter, gently put him in yourself keeping your tone as quiet and calm as possible. After placing him in crate, latch the door and leave the room.

Remember, you do not want your puppy to associate the correction with you. Some methods that are effective are remote controls for the television or radio. When these suddenly come on without your presence, the puppy is often startled into being quiet. An aluminum can containing a few coins or a water gun used out of site is often affective as well.

Start out crate training puppies in short periods of time. Never remove him or her from the crate while they are still protesting it. Increase the quiet time span and always praise the dog for good behavior.

Eventually, the dog will view the crate as his own personal home. A place to relax, sleep and avoid the rush of everyday living with the oddity of humans.