The dog is a den animal by nature. In the wild, the dog’s den is their home. It’s a secure place where he can rest or hide and raise his pups without worrying about threats or dangers from the outside. A crate fulfills a domestic dog’s need for a secure resting place. If used correctly, the dog will want to rest, hide from storms, or relax inside the crate as if it’s their home.
If appropriately done when done correctly, crate training can be a very effective method of training. As a puppy’s first owner, it lets you establish rules and control in your home and provide your puppy with a sense of safety.
Training a Puppy in a Crate
If you’ve decided to test crate training, The next step is to determine the best way to do it. Although the amount of time required to train your dog is different, The goal is to make your dog enjoy being in the crate. Crate training can be practical with these suggestions.
1. Choose the appropriate container.
Check that the crate you choose to use is of the right dimension. It should be large enough to allow the dog’s legs to sit up straight and move around without feeling overcrowded. There is a chance that as your puppy develops, you’ll have to use larger and bigger cages.
Another option is to partition off the area inside your puppy’s crate until they’re large enough. If the crate isn’t large, your pet could use a portion of it as toilets. You can click here to know more about the proper crate training of your pet.
2. Put the crate in the correct place.
Place your pet’s crate in the living room or in another space in the home where you and your family are spending a lot of time, if possible. It isn’t a good idea for your dog to associate the time in the crate with punishment.
Don’t allow him to think it is a punishment for being away from you. Consider the crate as a place to sleep for your dog as you search for the perfect spot. Place it in an area that’s not too secluded but not overly exposed.
If you’re training a new puppy, you need to know the do’s and don’ts in training. And you also need to consult a vet for some tips and advices as well.
3. Create a comfortable environment.
Before you introduce your pet to the new crate, ensure it’s equipped with bedding and their favorite toys. It will help make your crate appear more welcoming to your pet. You can make your dog’s crate comfortable by adding cushions or blankets. Certain breeds prefer sleeping on hard surfaces rather than soft ones. They could damage or even ruin bedding.
4. Associate the crate with rewards.
Your dog’s enjoyment of the crate can make training more effective. This can be achieved by using it as a method of rewarding behavior, not punishing. Continue praising and rewarding them from the moment they get into the crate. In time, they’ll realize that interaction with the crate will result in rewards.
5. Progress training gradually.
Dog training can be an extended process, just like any other task. When the door is open, allow your dog to move around whenever they want during a short time inside the crate. You should not force them into the cage. Treats can be scattered across the crate floor when they go in on their own.
Start closing your door after a brief period until your pet becomes more relaxed. Keep the crate close by and gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in it. When your dog is at ease in the crate, invite them to come inside by throwing toys or treats. It is also possible to provide food to your dog inside the cage.