Tips and tricks about crate training and why it should be one of the first things you do when introducing a new pet into your home!
The use of crates has increased dramatically in the last ten years or so and there are many reasons that crate training can be extremely useful when welcoming a new dog or puppy into the family.
Crates should be used as a bed/safe space and not as a punishment. You want them to feel always comfortable going in the crate and never as though they are getting in trouble when they go in there. This is an imperative step to the crate training process.
Getting them used to it - 99% of dogs are food motivated right? So feed them all their meals in there! Give them their long lasting treat for downtime in there. Make it a fun space for them by accompanying their time in it with some sort of food reward (obviously making sure they are only getting their daily intake and not much more). Always use the crate as a positive time and they will take themselves to it in no time!
Potty Training - Crates are great for potty training as it is a bed for them and dogs don't like to soil their bedding. So making sure you get a crate the size of your dog or get a large on and half it until they get bigger. This will mean they will try their best to hold going to the bathroom until you take them out. Obviously, you need to assess your pet and go off their age as to how long they will be able to hold it and give them the opportunity to get out and go the bathroom in their designated spot. Use your crate for pretty much everything, apart from some short play times and potty breaks! At least until they are reliably holding their toileting.
Car Travel - Having them crate trained means that you can transfer that crate into your car and have them safe and comfortable while travelling without whining and hopefully without getting too car sick!
Vet Visits - Most veterinary clinics are going to keep your pet in some sort of crate for their stay. So getting them used to a crate from a young age, will be both helpful for the vet clinic staff and your pet! It means your pet will be comfortable staying in there and not get stressed and it will also save the staff members ears from the whinging and barking all day!!
Summary - Get the right size that isn't too big or too small
- Positive, positive, positive
- The crate is your friend when potty training
- It's portable!
- Your pet will be comfortable at the vets
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