Crate training is a valuable skill that can benefit both you and your four-legged companion. When done correctly, crate training provides a safe and cosy space for your dog, helps with housebreaking, and eases travel and vet visits.
We'll walk you through the steps to crate train your dog effectively, ensuring that the crate becomes a welcoming and secure haven for your furry friend.
First of all, choose the right crate. Select a crate that is appropriately sized for your dog. It should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so spacious that they can use one area for sleeping and another for elimination.
If you are not sure how to chose one, I have already selected for you the one I bought for my own dog and that he uses every day now at night time.
This is the link https://amzn.to/46PMiWB
You can find different sizes and chose between single or double door (the one I have is double). It is foldable so if you have guests and you want the crate to magically disappear from your living room or you need to take it with you in a travel, it is quick and easy to do. It is easy to clean, as you can remove the base and wash/wipe and slide it back in once you are done.
Next, you have to make the crate appealing. Introduce the crate gradually and make it inviting. Place a soft bed or blanket inside for comfort. You already know, we have our own Domestic Beasts bed (at the moment only available in small size so perfect for small breeds like Yorkies, Shitzus, Malteses, etc). This is the link to our bed https://amzn.to/3sfSqIJ
You can also include your dog's favourite toys and treats to create a positive association with the crate.
Create Positive Associations by encouraging your dog to explore the crate on their own. Use treats and praise to reward them when they enter voluntarily. Keep the door open at first to avoid any feelings of confinement. To further associate the crate with positive experiences, feed your dog their meals inside it. This reinforces the idea that the crate is a comfortable and pleasant place.
Once you see the dog is comfortable, begin by closing the crate door for short periods while you're present. Stay with your dog and provide comfort and reassurance. Gradually extend the time the door is closed, making sure your dog remains calm.
The next step is to teach your dog to be comfortable in the crate when you're not around. Start with short absences and gradually extend the time as your dog becomes more accustomed to being alone in the crate. Always return to your dog calmly, without making a big fuss. Ensure your dog gets enough exercise and regular bathroom breaks. Don't leave your dog in the crate for extended periods, especially if they are young or have not been fully housebroken.
As your dog becomes more comfortable with the crate, you can gradually increase their freedom. Many dogs come to see their crates as a place of comfort and security and may even go in voluntarily. This is the case of my dog, that used to hate being in a cage and now he absolutely loves his sleepy time in there, to the point that at some point during the day he disappears and we find him snoring in the crate!
Please note that crate training is a gradual process, and each dog progresses at their own pace. Never use the crate as a punishment, and avoid forcing your dog into it. The goal is to create a positive and safe space, not to make your dog anxious or fearful.
A friend of mine was telling me about Brain Training for Dogs a while ago. I was curious so I went onto their website and found out it has one of best courses on the market to stimulate rour dog`s intelligence. The creator of this course is Adrienne Farricelli, a professional CPDT-KA certified dog trainer that for the last 10 years has been helping people to eliminate bad behaviours in dogs and train loving pets.
She had her work featured in USA Today and Every Dog magazine and contributed to eHow and All Experts.
The funniest thing is that you and your dog will get to start from pre school where you study the foundation of dog education, going to elementary school, high school, college and university! I thought this was such a new and fun idea and will take you to graduate your dog to the best well-educated pet possible.
I thought the price was very honest too, she is asking $67 for 7 huge modules of dog education.
If you got curious, you can visit the website here . I think you will not regret it.
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