Tips for Crate Training Your Canine!

Why crate train your dog?
Crate confinement could be scary for your pet if it is their first time during an
emergency. Situations may arise that require confining your pup. Reasons varying
from vacations, airline trips, evacuation, illness, a trip to the vet, and several other
potential circumstances for you and your canine. Teaching them to be
comfortable in a crate has valuable potential.
Make the crate comfortable. A soft pad, comfy blanket or something that smells
like you can go a long way to making crate confinement positive. I do not
recommend toys, that could be a recipe for disaster!
Location. Choosing the area where your dog’s crate is set up can be tricky. At
times it might be better to place it out of the busiest hustle and bustle of your
home. A spot out of earshot of thunderstorms or a busy household full of visitors
is much more ideal.
When beginning the introduction of the crate to your canine, you want to find a
place that will allow them to be in the crate with the door open, so they see this
as their safe place rather than a punishment. Having white noise such as a radio,
TV, or near the dryer can make a pawsitive difference!
Time. Start with a short amount of time in the crate—then slowly increase the
time with the door closed. Once they are comfortable with incremental increases,
try another longer stretch. Always praise and reward them while in the crate and
when you allow them out of the crate.
Positive reinforcement. Crate training takes time and patience but stay the course
and you’ll be prepared for any potential reason or emergency that may require
confinement. I have crates and kennels available on the shop link of my website. Feel free to contact me with any questions or would like to set up training.