Crate Training a Puppy – How to Avoid Common Problems

Make Crate Training a Positive Experience

Crate training a puppy can simplify the tasks of training and housebreaking your puppy. Puppies can create an incredible amount of mischief in very little time simply out of curiosity. Using a crate to restrict her movements is the best way to limit the amount of destruction any self-respecting pup can wreck on a home.

Because Sophie is allowed to play in her crate with her own toys, she cannot be looking for trouble all over the house, and as a result there is much less cause for punishment. But even when she does get loose and creates havoc, resist the urge to put her back in her crate to punish her.

The sooner Sophie associates that crate with her lair and a positive experience, the sooner she will start going there of her own accord. Think of a crate as the equivalent of a child having her very own bedroom: a haven from a sometimes hostile world where she can relax and enjoy peace and quiet.

Why a Pup Needs a Crate

Just like a dog will seek refuge under a table or a desk during a storm, a crate represents protection to a small dog simply because its size is in better proportion to the puppy. Putting Sophie in a crate is also a good way to protect other pets and allow them to get used to each other’s scents without any mishap.

That is why, when first bringing puppy home, a crate is one of the most important furnishings you can get for your new friend. It ranks right up there with the bed, the toys, and the food. Crates are also great for travelling, ensuring your puppy does not get lost or hurt in case of an accident.

Crate Training Hints to Help Along

Don’t just dump poor Sophie into her new crate and close the door though, because you will end up spooking her. A light touch is required here: throw all her toys in together with a few treats and let her explore at will. Put her bowl just inside the crate at meal time to help her get used to it. Only when she is comfortable being in her crate should you close the door.

One word of warning, though: make certain you remove Sophie’s collar before you put her in her crate. Puppies can get their collars caught in the bars and die of strangulation. It will help to locate Sophie’s crate in an area where she can observe your whereabouts during the day and feel part of the family.

At night, proximity to your bed will allow her to see, smell, and hear you and reassure that all is well with her world. You will also be able to hear her if she needs to go potty, lucky you! Remember that puppies should never be crated for more hours than their age in months, plus one. In other words, a four-month old pup should spend no longer than five hours at a time in its crate. And don’t forget to follow my training schedule!

One last word: remember that the time Sophie spends in her crate is no substitution for the quality time she needs to spend with you. Crate training a puppy can be demanding, but don’t forget that bonding and socialization are vital at this stage of her life so she will grow into a well-adjusted, confident dog.

By: Amber D

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