Crate Training Your Dog – Easy To Follow Tips For Dog Training

A home of its own within your home is how a dog views a dog crate. It is what to him is his own safe place that he can go to at times when he feels he wants comfort and security. Some, who don’t fully understand the benefits of a dog crate, believe that putting a dog in one is cruel. It only becomes cruel if it is done cruelly. An example of this would be if his dog was crated for more than a few hours. The fact is that crate training your dog the right way is beneficial to both your dog and you, and you should look for ways to include crate training in your dog training plans.

While some dogs may take to a crate right away, others may be a bit wary of this strange object you want them to go into. You should always remember that the most important part of any dog ​​training, and crate training your dog is no different, you should never force your dog to do something you are unsure of. If he is reluctant, don’t force him to do it. The correct course of action is to allow your dog to enter the crate of his own free will. Done correctly, you will see that your dog will come to love his crate and will choose to go there to sleep and get away from everyone.

Introduce your dog to the crate

First of all, you will need to show your dog the crate. Do this by having him in the room and holding a well-loved toy or favorite treat near him so he gets used to it being in the room. Take the time to play with him near the cage, and do so over several days. Decide where you would like to save it. Avoid high-traffic areas of your home, but keep it in a room where you and your family spend time. You shouldn’t choose an area or room that you rarely go into, as you don’t want your dog to feel isolated and alone when using the dog crate. Once you’ve decided on the location, don’t move it. You should feel comfortable that you will always be where you have become accustomed to being.

How to crate your dog

The next task is to get your dog into the dog crate on its own. One way to achieve this is by snatching him. Place a favorite toy or treat inside it. Start by not putting it too far into the box, just far enough that you have to stick your head in to retrieve it.

Initially, you may find that your dog simply tilts his head a bit, then quickly backs away. That’s perfectly normal, just praise and encourage him to make him more comfortable with everything and pretty soon he’ll just stick his head in and get the toy or treat.

You will need to repeat this crate training exercise every day, moving the toy or treat further and further into the cage. It would be a good idea as the exercises progress to place your dog’s bed on it as well. You may find that as he gets more comfortable with the crate, he can take time to sit or sleep on the bed and he won’t rush for the treat anymore.

As time goes by, you will find that your dog is comfortable going into his crate. When he gets more used to getting into it, sit next to him and pet him while he’s inside. This will reinforce the idea that being inside is okay. At this point, make sure the crate door stays open so you don’t make him nervous.

What to do now that it’s in the box

Repeat the previous steps. Remember that repetition is the key to dog training and strive to keep your dog crated longer and longer. As soon as you feel that your dog is comfortable being in it, close the door, but do not bolt it at this stage. By leaving it open, if your dog feels uncomfortable, he can come back out with his sniff.

Before long, your dog will decide that he likes his dog crate and will go to it when he feels a little insecure or when he wants to sleep. Please remember that when you close the door, he always remembers to leave him fresh water and not to leave him locked in his cage for long periods of time.