Problem Solving Tips for Kennel Training a Puppy

Kennel training a puppy is easier said than done. It's not as simple as putting the puppy in and shutting the door. Many complications can arise when trying to kennel train a puppy. Many of the complications can easily be solved and you can then successfully resume crate training the puppy. It's important to solve these problems before moving on with the training because if not, as the puppy ages, the problems can intensify. Learn how to solve common kennel training problems.

Crying and Barking

The most common problem you are likely to experience when kennel training a puppy is if your puppy cries or barks when placed in the crate. Most people believe if you leave them in the crate and allow them to cry they will eventually get use to it. However, this isn't the correct thing to do. If you allow a puppy to do this they will grow up with an anxiety of being placed in the kennel. It won't be a comforting experience for them like it should be. It gets dangerous as the puppy ages because as they get bigger they can cause injuries to them self as they try to escape the kennel. The idea behind the kennel training is to provide a dog with a nice, safe environment that is just their space--like a bedroom.

To solve this problem, you want to teach the puppy that nothing bad comes from being placed in the kennel. To do this, gently introduce the puppy to the kennel. Place them inside with the door open while you pet and comfort them. After they begin to make progress doing this, shut the door and comfort them through the door and then let them out after a couple minutes, offering praise. Gradually increase the time the puppy is spent in the crate repeating the process.

As your pet becomes more comfortable, try leaving the room for a minute. Return and offer praise and comfort again once you have let them out. Repeat this until the puppy becomes fully comfortable being left in the crate. You always want to solve this problem in steps. Never rush the process.

Chewing on the Crate

Another common problem with kennel training a puppy is if they start chewing on the kennel door, walls, or anywhere else. This problem must be addressed and corrected because it can lead to mouth and nose injuries, as well as broken teeth. Most often, the chewing is caused from the anxiety of being left in the kennel.

The main solution for this problem is to show your puppy nothing bad comes from the crate. You can do this in the same way you get a puppy to stop barking and crying in the crate. Also, make sure your puppy has plenty of toys to chew on. Dogs chew when they are bored or anxious, among other times. For this reason, make sure you have a good supply of quality chew toys to keep them occupied.