Back to Basics; A Guide to Effective Crate Training

Elevate Your Space with Perfectly Sized, Strategically Placed, and Utterly Comfortable ElementsHey there, fellow dog enthusiasts! 🐾 Ever wondered if crate training is just for the puppy party or if adult dogs can join the crate craze too? Let’s talk about crate training, not just for the tiny tail-waggers but for our seasoned canine companions too! 

When we hear “crate training,” our minds often conjure images of adorable little furballs learning the ropes. You know, the classic routine: potty training, cozy nights, and a safe haven during the day. If you’re lucky, your pup might already have some crate know-how thanks to a thoughtful breeder. Easy peasy, you can simply continue the training at their new home.  

What about adult dogs?  

Fear not! Whether it’s a fresh rescue finding their forever home, a dog gearing up for travel, or a wise elder who did not have the opportunity to learn, there’s room for everyone. Sure, adult dogs might come with established habits, making them a tad resistant to change. Some might have had not-so-great crate experiences in the past. But the process is akin to coaching a puppy, just with a few extra layers. Think of it as a puzzle, where breaking down the training plan into bite-sized steps is the key to success. 

In a multi-dog household, crates can be your superhero capes. Managing meal times? Check. Avoiding bone wars? Double-check. Giving the wise elders a Zen zone away from the youthful exuberance of their furry roommates? Triple-check! Crates aren’t just boxes for storing our dogs. 

The elephant in the room

Or should I say, the skeptical dog parent? Some folks argue that crates are doggy dungeons, that a crate is cruel and inhumane. As a crate-loving trainer, I’ll be the first to admit that misusing this tool can lead to a rough time for your furry friend. No one wants stressed-out pups or self-inflicted doggy injuries, right? However, how you train your dog and how they feel about their crate should be paramount. It makes all the difference in how the crate is perceived. Slow and steady wins the crate race, ensuring your dog is comfy every step of the way. 

However, here’s the scoop: not every dog will be a crate convert. If your attempts have been more “chaos” than “blessing,” that’s ok. Call in the professionals, let me tailor a plan that fits your furry pal like a custom-made collar. Or hey, explore alternatives to crate training—because at the end of the day, it’s all about finding what works for your unique canine companion. 

Now that we’ve looked at some of the benefits of crate training let us get down to the how. To make it easy to follow I have broken the process down into 5 key steps. 

Elevate Your Space with Perfectly Sized, Strategically Placed, and Utterly Comfortable Elements

Let’s dive into the crucial world of creating the perfect doggy oasis – because, yes, setting the stage for success is like laying the red carpet to doggy greatness! So, first things first – the crate. Picture it like your dog’s very own VIP lounge. We want it to be a spot where they can kick back, relax, and maybe even throw in a few tail wags for good measure. The key? Choosing the right crate and giving it a prime spot that’s comfy, safe, and sparks their curiosity. 

Goldilocks Principle 

The ideal crate is one where your furball can stand up, do a graceful turn, and flop down for a snooze without feeling like they’re in a game of canine Twister. It’s like the Goldilocks of crates – not too big, not too small, but just right. But wait, there’s more to consider! 

Think about your dog’s personal preferences. Does your senior sidekick have a thing for plush comfort to soothe those joints? Maybe a thicker bed is the way to their heart. Is your furball a burrower, the type to disappear into a sea of blankets? Well then, let’s make it cozy with layers. Anxious pupper? They might appreciate a covered crate to shield them from the hustle and bustle. 

And hey, chewers of the world are covered too! A sturdier crate made of metal or plastic might just be your canine fortress. Oh, and for our toilet training champs – easy-clean crates are the real MVPs in this game. 

Toilet Training 

Now, when it comes to our little rascals still perfecting the art of toilet time, size matters. While the common story is to go big so they can grow into it, there is a plot twist. A smaller space can actually work wonders, reducing the chance of a crate turning into a makeshift bathroom. A larger crate can provide the space to sleep on one end and toilet down the other. If you’ve already invested in a grander crate, fear not! A divider is the trick to making it a perfect snug fit. 

Location, Location, Location 

Last but not least – crate placement. It’s like choosing the location for the coolest doggy hangout. We’re aiming for a Zen zone away from the hustle and bustle but not so isolated that your pup feels like they’re in solitary confinement. A quiet spot, maybe in a bedroom or off to the side of the living space, is the golden ticket for optimal relaxation vibes. 

So, before you kick off your training, take a moment to ponder the crate setup. Consider what makes your dog’s tail wag with joy, where they’d happily chill, and let the crate party begin!

Begin by Understanding Your Dog’s Take on the Crate   

 Choosing the right crate for your furry friend involves more than just size and material considerations—it’s a journey that begins with understanding your dog’s reaction to their new space. It may seem like a small detail, but it’s a crucial step in the process. 

Surprisingly, dogs can be quite unpredictable in their responses. My older dog, for instance, was introduced to a crate at the ripe age of 8, and to my delight, he took to it immediately. I had just set it up, barely finished adjusting the bedding, and there he was—curled up inside, ready for a cozy nap. In no time, he even started bringing his favorite toys in for company. It was like he’d found his own little haven. 

However, not all dogs are quick to embrace the crate life. Some may hesitate or show little interest, while others might treat it as a pit stop, grabbing a treat and moving on to more exciting endeavors.  

Regardless of your dog’s initial feelings toward the crate, it’s crucial to pay attention. Understanding their reactions guides the starting point for training and helps identify potential challenges along the way. This process isn’t a one-time assessment; as you progress through training, continuously gauge your dog’s comfort at each step before moving on to the next. This thoughtful approach ensures a positive and gradual crate training experience for your furry companion.

Create Positive Vibes

Ensuring that your dog views the crate as a comfortable space is key to successful crate training. Dogs may spend extended periods in their crate, so creating a positive association is crucial. Carefully considering the crate’s size, placement, and comfort to ensure your dog feels at ease inside sets you up for success. 

Transform feeding time into a positive crate experience by incorporating a training game. Gently toss small, tasty treats into the crate one by one. Praise your dog when they enter for a treat, and gradually increase the reward for staying in the crate before allowing them to exit. 

Feeding your dog meals in the crate is an effective strategy, encouraging them to spend a few minutes in their crate. Long-lasting chews, such as Kongs and Toppls filled with their favorite flavors, add to the positive association with the crate. For added crate excitement, surprise your pup with hidden cookies and toys in the blankets. It turns crate time into a treasure hunt, making the crate a go-to spot. And when you catch your dog voluntarily exploring or lounging in their crate, shower them with yummy treats – they’ve earned it! 

For older dogs or puppies with past negative crate experiences, take it slow. The enrichment ideas mentioned can help overcome negative associations, but patience is key. Never use the crate as a form of punishment – maintaining a positive association is vital. 

Ultimately, the goal is to make the crate a delightful and relaxing space. Encourage your dog to enter voluntarily before progressing to closing the door. Professional trainer Susan Garrett offers an excellent online course, “Crate Games Online,” for those looking to enhance their crate training skills. 

Advancing to closed door comfort 

 Once your pup has mastered the art of crate entry, it’s time to introduce the next level: closing the door. Take it easy, though – make sure your furry friend is genuinely ready for this step. If they’re happily hopping into the crate only to pull a “crate dash” as soon as treats are involved, consider extending their crate time with some more substantial chew treats and longer meal sessions. 

Here’s a fun technique: toss those small, delicious treats into the crate one by one. Once your dog is cool with crate entry, try closing the door for a quick 1-2 seconds, then reward them with treats through the bars. Let them out, and repeat this process, gradually adding a couple of seconds each time. It’s a slow and steady approach to keep things stress-free. 

A pro tip for treat delivery: slide those treats through the side or back bars instead of the door. This sneaky move helps shift your dog’s attention away from the exit. Keep practicing, and soon your pup will be a crate-closing connoisseur. 

Now, pay attention to the feedback. If you notice howling, barking, self-injury, or a little Houdini act, it’s a sign the training might be moving a tad too fast. No problem! Go back to reinforcing positive vibes, take it slower, and let the crate become a place your pup willingly hangs out in. Crate training can be a blast – let’s make it a paw-some experience for our pups!  

Slowly Amping Up Hangout Time!

Fantastic progress on the crate comfort challenge! Now, let’s level up by increasing the time your pup spends in their cozy space. 

Start by leaving your dog in the crate with a long lasting treat, like a stuffed Kong, as you go about your usual activities at home. Keep a close eye to ensure they’re relaxed and enjoying the treat. Initially, return before they finish, calmly open the door, and step away. If your furry friend stays in, enjoying their treat or taking a nap, that’s fantastic! Repeat this step, mixing up the duration of your absences. 

Next, amp it up a bit by leaving your pup with a tasty treat as you step out for short errands. Whether it’s grabbing the mail or tending to the garden, gradually extend your time away. For longer crating periods, ensure your dog is well-exercised and ready for a cozy nap. 

Always tune in to your dog’s emotional state. Look for signs of calmness, relaxation, and a happy crate experience. Remember, crate training is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep your eyes on the prize: a calm and happy pup chilling in their crate.