Crate Training

Crate Training - Some dogs are crate trained and others aren't. Crate training is an important part of your dog's training. Some people feel that it's cruel to keep your dog confined in a crate, but as long as it's not for an extended period of time or used as a punishment, it's very important for your dog to be crate trained, even if you don't have the intention of using it on a regular basis. Crate training your dog as a puppy will not only help with potty training, but also with basic obedience, and gives your dog a sense of security.

Things To Keep In Mind With Crate Training:

• Never use the crate as punishment. Your dog will come to fear it and refuse to enter. A crate is supposed to be a happy, safe place for your dog
• Don't leave your dog in the crate for too long. A dog that's crated for too long can become very anxious and doesn't get enough exercise. 
• Puppies under 6 months of age should not stay in a crate for longer than 3-4 hours at a time. 
• Crate your dog only until they know the rules and won't destroy anything when you leave. After that it should be a place they go voluntarily. 

A crate may be a dog's den, but just as you would not spend your entire life in one room, your dog should not spend most of their time in the crate. Dogs that spend hours in the crate while you're gone will need lots of exercise and time to stretch their legs before and after they are crated. 

Here are some links for tips on how to crate train your dog: How To Crate Train or Crate Training 

If a dog is taught through positive reinforcement, he will learn to love the crate and it will become his safe place. The crate is somewhere the dog can go to not be bothered or when scared/anxious, etc. The dog helps teach the dog bowel/bladder control (if in the properly sized crate) because who wants to sleep where they potty? Crates also help the pup stay out of trouble when you can't supervise directly, like while making dinner, etc.. Crates also condition dogs to be able to enjoy down time or have relaxed behavior. 

** If you aren't convinced to crate train your dog yet, just know that at some point in your dog's life, they are going to have to be crated - whether that be at the groomer's, vet's office, boarding, friend's home, in the car, or anywhere else - it's going to happen. It's important that they are trained and prepared so when they are in those situations they are less likely to be frightened, scared, have anxiety, etc. It can be very stressful and even traumatizing for dogs who are put in these situations that aren't trained. 

Here are some other links for tips on how to crate train your dog: Why Is Crate Training So Important? or Crate Training

Crate training helps with potty training, traveling, creating structure for your dog, helps your dog mentally relax, creates a safe place for your pup, and helps prevent unwanted behaviors. You can put blankets, toys (as long as there isn't a risk for destroying and swallowing pieces), or other comforting, safe items for your dog in the crate to help make it a cozy, comforting, happy space.