Three Reasons to Crate-train your Puppy

Crate-training is something we highly recommend to our clients. Especially when you first get a puppy, it can be one of the most versatile tools in early training and greatly aids potty training. Some of our clients don't understand the benefits of the crate and think of it as a mean cage. One of the main reasons is that many dog owners make the mistake of using the crate as a form of punishment, rather then a safe place. If used correctly, dogs see the crate as a comfortable and safe place to relax. Here are three reasons why you should crate train your puppy.

1. The crate is the best way to keep your puppy save when you cannot supervise him.

In the beginning stages of training your new puppy, it is important to supervise him at all times. Pups like to explore their new surroundings and will use their teeth on carpets and furniture, if they are not redirected.

It is a good idea to secure the pet in the crate when you cannot supervise him. Whether you want to take a shower, or need to go to get groceries at the store, leaving the pup in the crate keeps him out of trouble. He can't chew up electrical wiring or your rug. Give him a nice bed inside the crate and a few chew toys to keep him busy. Then you can leave him for short periods of time without having to worry about him getting into something he shouldn't.

2. The crate is the fastest way to house train the dog

The crate is a very effective tool to potty train your pet. Using the crate at night is the fastest way to house-train a puppy, as it prevents accidents in the house at night. Make sure that you get up about every 3 hours during the first few weeks to let the puppy out to do her business. Gradually extend the time in the crate to 4 or 5 hours. Once she gets older, let her tell you when she needs to go out, and pretty soon she will sleep through the night.

3. The crate gives the pup a safe place of his own.

The crate quickly becomes the pups den, where he feels comfortable and safe. He can get away from other pets or from children. During the day, place the crate in an area where you and the family hang out the most. Let the door remain open, and you will see the pet going into the crate to take naps, or just to lay down and chew on his bone.

Once the pet identifies the crate with safety, you can further use it to train him. As the puppy grows, and needs to go places with you, use the crate in the car. He will have a familiar place, he already associates with quiet and calmness, so the car ride won't seem so scary.

If you travel with your dog, having him crate trained is optimal, since you can bring the crate into any new and unusual surrounding and provide the pet with a place of his own.

I hope you found the information helpful, please share or comment, I love to hear your feedback.

For information on how to properly crate train your new puppy, look for my upcoming post on the subject. Until then: Keep your Paws on the Road!

Thank you,

Bee