Why your dog will love these 11 crate training tips
Have you added a new furry friend to your household?
Whether you have a puppy, an adult dog, or an older dog, one popular and proven training method is crate training.
Crate training teaches your pet to accept being placed inside a crate for a certain period.
Crates offer several benefits to dogs, such as providing a sense of security, offering an easy and safe transportation mode, aiding in potty training, and keeping them safe when left alone.
Crates can also help protect your belongings from curious, chewing pups.
However, crate training your dog isn’t always straightforward and can leave your dog stressed if not done correctly.
This blog post offers 11 must-know tips for crate training your dog.
Remember that this isn’t a comprehensive guide to crate training, but rather a complementary list of tips to enhance your success.
1. Choose the right size dog crate
When choosing a dog crate, ensure it is the proper size for your dog.
Dog crate sizes vary, and your dog may feel uncomfortable and cramped if the crate is too small for them.
If it’s too big, your dog may not get the same sense of security due to space. Plus, puppies may go to the bathroom on the other end of the crate.
A crate should provide enough room for your dog to walk inside comfortably and complete a 360-degree turn. Your pup should also be able to lie down in the crate without feeling cramped.
To determine the best size, you should base it on your dog’s specific measurements. If, for some reason, you cannot measure your pup, at least research the average size for your dog’s breed.
First, measure your dog’s length from the tip of its nose to the tip of its tail and add about two to four inches to the crate’s length.
Next, for the dog kennel’s height, measure your pup from the ground to the top of their head (or the top of their ears if they stand erect), and then add two to four inches. Typically, you should add two inches for smaller breeds and four inches for larger breeds.
If you have a growing pup and don’t want to buy future crates, consider purchasing a crate with a crate divider (or buy the partition separately).
These dividers allow you to buy large dog crates, but slowly adjust the crate’s size over time as your puppy grows. Eventually, you’ll no longer need the divider.
2. Choose the correct type of crate
In addition to selecting the right crate size, choosing the correct crate style for your pup is also essential. Crates typically come in several varieties, including wire, plastic, heavy-duty, furniture, and fabric. Depending on your dog’s specific needs, one type of crate may be more suitable than others.
For example, wire crates are a popular choice for crate training. They are easy to clean, provide good air circulation, can be folded, and are compatible with a crate divider.
This is an excellent type of crate to keep in a room with you, so your pup can see you. However, it may not be the best choice for separation anxiety since your dog can also see you leave.
Plastic crates are another potential option, depending on your needs. They are durable, secure, lightweight, provide more privacy, and work well for travel. However, with less circulation, they may trap odors and require more cleaning.
If your dog is a massive chewer or escape artist, then a heavy-duty dog crate might be the way to go, although these crates are usually more expensive.
However, these crates often last longer, can be used indoors and outdoors, and are relatively easy to clean. They are usually made from a stronger metal material with more security features.
Furniture-style crates are a good option if you want your dog’s crate to blend in with your decor. Not only can they serve as a crate, but they can also function as a side table or other furniture piece. Remember that these crates are more prone to damage from chewing and scratching; of course, they aren’t portable.
Fabric crates are lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for travel. However, they’re not recommended for crate training or larger dogs. They’re also easier for your dog to escape and can be harder to clean.
3. Choose the right bedding for your dog crate
You want to use the right bedding to make your dog comfortable in their crate.
Dog crate pads are highly recommended and can fit nicely within your dog’s crate for added comfort.
If you have a new puppy, buying an indestructible dog crate pad that is also waterproof is recommended. Your puppy could rip apart weaker materials and potentially swallow them.
Later on, you should be able to switch to a different type of bedding once you’re comfortable that your pup can behave.
There are many options for dog crate beds, including orthopedic models designed to address joint issues.
Don’t add anything else to your dog’s bed besides a crate pad. The more items you add, including blankets, towels, and other things, the more likely your pup will get tangled up, run out of space, and even become too hot.
4. Decide where to put your dog’s crate
The topic of where to place a dog’s crate has various opinions, depending on the type of dog and who you ask.
One standard recommendation for day crate training is to place the crate where your dog can see others, such as in a family room.
This way, your pup doesn’t feel isolated or alone during the process. However, you want to avoid a spot with too much foot traffic because your dog might get too excited and want to leave the crate.
Don’t place your dog’s crate near anything that could pose a risk, such as wires or curtain cords that could fall inside the crate. If your dog isn’t as extroverted, you can also place the crate in a quiet corner to provide a more secure space.
It’s often recommended to place the crate in your bedroom at night so that your dog feels safe while sleeping. You’re also able to know when your dog needs to go potty.
5. Keep the dog crate clean
For crate training to work, ensure you keep your pup’s crate clean. Wire crates are easy to clean because they typically come with a removable plastic tray or pan that can be wiped down easily.
You want to follow the crate manufacturer’s specific instructions on how to clean it. Use vinegar to deal with odors.
Other common tips include not leaving your dog’s food and water bowls inside the crate; instead, pick them up after your dog’s designated mealtime and use non-skid bowls. Also, wash your pup’s bedding regularly.
6. Avoid hazards in the dog crate
Picture a baby in a crib. When newborns are in a crib, nothing should be in the crib with them except for a pacifier. Use this same advice when it comes to your dog.
Don’t place anything in your dog’s crate that can be a choking hazard. Therefore, be extra cautious when choosing a toy to give your dog inside its crate.
Also, don’t leave your dog’s collar and tags on them while in the crate. These items can get caught on the crate and pose a strangulation risk.
7. Don’t reward crying or whining
One common mistake is to let your dog out of the crate immediately when they start crying or whining.
It’s recommended that some dogs be allowed to cry and only be let out of the crate when they’re quiet. Eventually, your dog will learn that their calm behavior will get rewarded, not their crying.
On the other hand, giving attention to the crying will only reinforce their behavior. If you don’t wait for silence, your dog may begin to associate crying with being let out of the crate and continue the crying behavior.
However, the cry-it-out method may not be effective for some dogs.
You may find yourself waiting hours for them to stop crying. In that scenario, one recommendation is to take them on a potty break each time they cry so they associate crying only with potty breaks.
8. Exercise your dog first
Exercise is an essential part of your dog’s schedule. A suggested schedule is to have your pup eat, followed by an exercise and play session, a potty break, and then quiet time in their crate.
When your dog has ample time to expend energy and be active, they’re less likely to be restless and whiny inside their crate.
9. Start slow
Don’t expect your dog to stay in its crate for extended lengths of time from the start. Allowing them to get accustomed to their crate at a slow and steady pace is vital.
The first time, place your dog in its crate for just a couple of minutes, reward them for good behavior, and let them out for some playtime.
Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate until they get used to staying in it for longer periods during house training. Once they’re used to staying in it, you can choose whether to open or close the puppy crate while they sleep.
10. Make the experience positive
You want to help your dog associate their crate with positive experiences and good things.
The crate should not be used as a punishment because your dog won’t view it as a safe place to retreat.
Some common tips are giving your dog their favorite treats, chews, and toys inside the crate, and feeding meals. You can also place a mat or bed inside that your dog already prefers.
Additionally, you want to limit crate time based on their age and housetraining experience. A dog is not meant to be kept in a crate all day.
11. Consider other alternatives
Some dogs hate being in a crate. While a professional dog trainer may make them feel more comfortable, you may not have the funds or time to deal with the issue.
The purpose of the crate is to make your dog more comfortable, not less. As a result, you may want to consider other alternatives.
Some alternatives include dog gates or playpens. While these may not be ideal for potty training, they can at least restrict your dog’s access to the rest of the house. You could place pee pads within the space if your dog needs to use the bathroom.
Tips for puppies
Choose the right crate: Ensure it’s the right size—enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Make it comfortable: Add a soft blanket or bed and a few toys to make the crate inviting.
Positive associations: Use treats and toys to encourage your puppy to enter the crate willingly.
Gradual introduction: Start with short periods in the crate and gradually close the door as they become more comfortable.
Use commands: Teach a command like “go to your crate” to help them learn when it’s time to enter.
Avoid punishment: Don’t use the crate as a form of punishment; this will create fear.
Establish a routine: Incorporate crate time into your daily schedule with regular intervals.
Short timeframes: Limit initial crate time to 2-3 hours and increase as your puppy adjusts.
Stay calm: When letting your puppy out, remain calm to reinforce that being in the crate is a regular part of their routine.
Tips for older dogs
Crate training an older dog requires patience and understanding. Here are some helpful tips:
Choose the right crate: Ensure it’s the right size for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
Create positive associations: Make the crate inviting with treats, toys, and familiar items like blankets or clothing.
Go at their pace: Let your dog explore the crate on their own without forcing them inside.
Short sessions: Begin with brief crate time and gradually increase it as they become more comfortable.
Practice when calm: Use the crate during quiet moments to build positive associations.
Use commands and consistency: Establish an explicit command for entering the crate and be consistent with it.
Mind your dog’s physical needs: Take your dog out for a bathroom break before crating, and avoid keeping them in the crate for long durations.
Monitor and adjust: Watch for signs of anxiety and adjust your approach as needed.
Gradual integration: Incorporate crate time into your dog’s routine while keeping them close to you.
Seek professional help: If you face challenges, consider consulting a dog trainer who specializes in older dogs.
Help your dog overcome separation anxiety
Separation anxiety can complicate crate training, but the following strategies can help:
Positive associations: Make the crate inviting with soft bedding, toys, and treats. Engage with your dog near the crate to build positive experiences.
Gradual acclimatization: Allow your dog to explore the crate with the door open first, then gradually close the door for short periods, extending the time as they get more comfortable.
Desensitization: Start by crating your dog for brief periods and slowly increase the time to help them adjust to being alone.
Manage departures and arrivals: Keep your goodbyes and greetings low-key. This helps reduce anxiety around your comings and goings.
Mental stimulation: Tire your dog out with play or walks before crating them. Provide toys or puzzles to keep them occupied while you’re away.
Calming aids: Consider using calming products like pheromone diffusers or consult your vet for suitable options.
Routine: Establish a consistent schedule for meals, walks, and crate time to create a sense of security.
Professional help: If anxiety persists, consult a professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist for tailored guidance.
Final thoughts on crate training your dog
Engaging in a crate-training program and following these tips should help speed up the time it takes to train your dog successfully.
It takes patience, but your dog will learn that their crate is their safe spot.