How to Crate Training Your Puppy

Dog crates are an excellent way to train a new puppy in your household. They give the dog a place all of their own that they can go to when they need a safety place. They give owners peace of mind when they're gone from home that the dog isn't tearing apart their house. It also helps the dog become less stressed out and tear apart things and then feel guilty when their owners get home. They're especially helpful when traveling, giving the dog something that is their own space to bring along.

If you decide to crate train your dog make sure to use it every time to establish a routine. As with any training, your dog will need consistency to learn what they are supposed to do. Some people crate train their dogs to stay in them only when they're away from the house. Others prefer to have the dog sleep in their crate at night as well. Either way, make sure to use it every time. Don't leave your dog in the crate for extended periods especially when they are puppies. A puppy's bladder can only hold so much fluid so make sure there is someone there to take them out to use the bathroom at least every couple of hours. A fully grown dog should not be left for more than five hours.

Line the dog's crate with a soft blanket and some toys to make the space comfortable and enjoyable. Do not let children play in the dog's crate, this needs to be a space for the dog only. Every once and a while, during the day, drop treats in the crate for the dog to find. This way they come to associate the crate with good things. We also gave our dog a treat every time she got into her crate on demand.

Make sure to buy a fully metal crate that the dog can see out of. It makes them less nervous to see who is coming in and out of the house then if they were cooped up in a plastic one with a slight metal window. Be sure to store the crate in a central room of the house. The dog needs to feel like they're a part of the household, not shut off into a room that no one uses. It will also help if the room is near the door you use to exit and enter from as they will see you coming and leaving.

When purchasing a crate make sure to get one that will fit the dog not only now but when they are fully grown. There should be enough room for the dog to fully stand up and turn in a circle. Many of the crates you can buy have a barrier you can put up to make the space smaller and just move it or take it out as the puppy grows. Crates can be quite expensive. Any local pet store carries them such as PetsMart or PetCo. If you want to save a little money check your local paper and thrift stores. Ebay and Craigslist are also great websites to check for cheaper used crates too. I suggest finding one that has a plastic removable bottom to make cleaning easy.