Dog training is an essential part of being a dog owner. They are your responsibility, so you will have to make sure that they behave well and also know about certain things. One of those is crate training.
It is very useful to have a dog crate trained especially if they are new. This way, they will be able to know about their limitations around your home. This will also make them have their own space. It will also easier if they need some transportation.
So, how will you start with it?
1. Select Crate
It is essential to have something that is right for them. You will have to choose the right size. It should be something with enough space that they will be able to move around. It is also often made of plastic or metal, and it will be up to you with the budget and also the use of it. It can be easily found at pet stores or even some home shops and hardware.
2. Introduce and Familiarize
Place the crate somewhere you spend a lot of time. It should be a place they are comfortable and welcome. You would not want them to feel neglected, and they will if you place the crate somewhere secluded. Make it also homey for them by putting a blanket in it, some toys, and also some treat. This will also encourage them to get in. This will also make them faster in getting used to it.
3. Food and Drink
Food is always a great way to make them happy and comfortable. For that matter, you can feed them inside the crate. Food will also entice them in getting in willingly and staying there. As they eat, close the door slowly and let them finish their meal. Let them stay there for a while and get them out in about ten minutes or so. This way, they will be able to get used to it. Try not to get them out if they whine because it might be stuck to them as a sign.
4. Long Period
Then you will have to train them to be inside for a long period of time. First, you have to make sure that they are comfortable inside the crate and not fidgety. Then, if you must, you can also have a word for them going inside the crate. Leave them there for about ten minutes before getting them out. Do this several times then as time goes by, increase the length of time. You may also have the time to let them sleep there.
5. Leaving and Overnight
Now, it is time to have it longer. Remember the purpose of crate training. It is necessary for traveling and also house training. It is also handy when you have visitors around. Training them to stay for a long period is mentioned. Then you can also leave them there when leaving the house, just make sure to not have it for a long time. Another is when you sleep or overnight. You can have the crate near you, so they will be comfortable and have a good rest.