Tips on Crate Training
MLAR strongly recommends crate training for successfully housebreaking your new dog. Whether you are teaching a puppy or retraining an adult dog, crate training is a humane and positve approach to an important part of dog ownership. The logic behind crate training stems from the idea that dogs usually do not want to mess their immediate area, in this case, the crate. We recommend using the crate any time you cannot fully watch your dog, such as when you're busy around the house, when you leave the house, or at night while sleeping. As your dog becomes more trustworthy, gradually start increasing the "confinement" area from a crate to a kitchen (using baby gates) to part of the house. The ultimate goal is to be able to leave your dog with limited or full range of the house while you cannot watch him or while you're out.
With that in mind, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Make sure your dog will be able to comfortably move around in the crate without giving him too much room to "mess" on one side and lie comfortably on the other.
- At first, do not put bedding in the crate. Your dog may chew and ingest the bedding. Only when you are sure that there is no danger, put down a clean towel or crate pad.
- Put the crate in a busy location of the house, such as the kitchen or family room. Dogs want to feel like they're "part of the pack" and it is important for them to get used to the familiar sights and sounds of your home. Never put the crate in a distant area such as the garage, basement or bathroom.
- If your dog is not used to the crate, try feeding him his meals in his crate with the crate door open. This will help associate positive experiences to being in the crate.
- Never use the crate as a punishment!
- If your dog becomes bored or anxious while in the crate, try giving him a "Kong" toy stuffed with dog food. Kongs are available in most pet retail stores and are nearly indestructible. Just make sure you buy a size appropriate toy so your dog cannot swallow the Kong whole.
- Be consistent! You need to take your dog outside to relieve himself first thing in the morning, after all meals, last thing before bedtime, and roughly every four hours in between. This sounds like a lot, but it is better to take him outside too often in the beginning than to let him make "mistakes" in the house. Be sure to immediately reward your dog for "going potty" outside. Positive reinforcement is the best training tool.
- Be fair! Your dog is part of your family and deserves to spend time with you. Dogs should not be left in their crates for long periods of time and it is best to give your dog plenty of exercise before and after being in the crate. Remember, a tired dog is a good dog.
- Most importantly, set your dog up for success. Be patient with mistakes as they are always bound to happen. Try to focus on the positive accomplishments your dog is making instead of any negative occurrences. If you create an environment where your dog can succeed, your dog will flourish and become a happier, better adjusted member of your pack.