Crate training can improve the quality of life for both the dog owner and their dog. It can be very frustrating to find your favorite shoes all chewed up or the leg of your dinning room chairs has been gnawed deep into the wood grain. Your dog isn't doing this to be mean or intentionally destructive. They need to be trained in order to know what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. This is where crate training with a dog cage or dog crate can be used.
How quickly or effectively a dog adapts to crate training varies from one dog to the next. Some dog breeds are extremely easy to crate train while some others require more time and patience.
The key to success is that dogs should always associate the dog crate with positive reinforcement. Never use the crate as punishment or punitive confinement.
Introduce you dog to the crate by finding a common area of the house to put the crate. Maybe this is the kitchen or family room. Put your dog's favorite blanket or cushion in the crate. Add one or two of his favorite toys. Now try to coax him into the crate. You may even need to use a food treat.
Leave the door open to help get him used to freely entering and exiting. You will also need to teach him to eat in the crate. Place his food and water dish in the crate. If this doesn't work, start by placing the food dish in front of the opening and gradually moving it inside. Close the door when your dog is eating inside the crate. When your dog is finished eating open the door. Over time you can gradually leave the door closed longer to get him used to the idea of spending time in the crate.
After your dog has become acclimated to spending extended time in the crate you can leave the area and go about your business around the house without worrying about your dog. Be sure to monitor his potty needs, particularly after meals. Dogs won't usually defecate where they sleep – so be sure to let him outside for proper potty breaks.
By properly crate training your dog, you will have a better relationship and happier dog.
