Crate Training Your Dog

Are you trying to crate train your dog? Here are some tips to remember before starting the process:

• Crate training is not BAD! You are not locking your dog up. 

• Help your dog associate positivity with the crate by feeding your dog and giving your dog treats when in the crate.

• Be patient! It will not be easy and can take months to get down. 

Now let's get into it.  

Step 1: Help your dog associate positivity with the crate

Allow them to view the crate as a place for them to relax and calm down. When they are calm and not playing, have them go in the crate for about 10 minutes to rest. You can leave the door open. This will teach your dog that this is a place of resting and they can go here when they are calm and want to relax. Begin to call the crate "home" when putting them in there. Slowly they will understand what you are saying when you say "go home."

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Step 2: Give your dog treats when they go in their crate

To help with getting your dog used to the crate, give them treats when they go in it. This will help them to begin to associate the crate with a positive environment. They will start to feel like it is their safe place. You can also feed your dog in the crate as this will also help them to get accustomed to it. 

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Step 3: Take small steps and be patient!

When you first start to crate train your dog, do it in small increments. Maybe run to a local coffee shop and put your dog in the crate for that time. Or, you can put your dog in the crate for 10 minute periods throughout the day. Do not start out by leaving your dog in the crate for an extended period of time. As your dog begins to get used to the crate, you can start to increase the amount of time they are in there. 

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As always, feel free to reach out with any questions! 

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