When training your dog, a training tactic you may want to look into is crate training. Contrary to popular belief, crate training your dog is actually a very good way to combat several different behavioral issues in dogs. In addition to this, crate training helps your dog to become more obedient, and can even aid in potty training.
STEP 1 – CHOOSE A CRATE
When crate training your dog, one of the first and most important things that you can do is to choose the type of crate that is best for your dog. In general, dog crates come in two different varieties – enclosed plastic crates, and open wire crates. Both of these different types come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so choose carefully. A plastic enclosed crate has more of a cave-like feeling, and may help your dog to be more comfortable. However, enclosed crates only offer a minimum amount of ventilation, so be sure to keep this in mind. An open wire crate offers optimum ventilation, though may not allow your dog to feel as “safe” as in an enclosed plastic crate.
STEP 2 – CHOOSE PLACEMENT FOR YOUR CRATE
A popular misconception about crate training is that a dog should be confined to a create as a form of punishment. This is very untrue, and is not the proper way to crate train a dog. With proper dog pet care, a crate should be a dog’s own personal space, an enclosure that is meant for them to relax in. To introduce your dog to their crate, it is first advised to choose the placement of the crate. The best way to accomplish this is to place the crate in a family room, where there is constant activity. This allows your dog to have their own space in a room where there is still human interaction.
STEP 3 –INTRODUCE YOUR DOG TO THE CRATE
Begin by leaving the crate open, and placing a few of your dog’s toys inside the crate. It is also advised that you place a blanket or some sort of bedding material in the crate as well. Try playing fetch with your dog, and eventually throw a toy inside the crate. If your dog retrieves the toy, offer them an extra amount of praise, as well as a treat reward. This is a form of positive reinforcement, and will greatly help in getting your dog used to being in the crate.
STEP 4 – TRAINING
Once your dog is comfortable with the crate, it’s time to begin the actual training. Try to keep your dog in the crate for approximately 2-3 hours, and then let them out. Immediately after your dog leaves the crate, take them outside. If your dog goes to the bathroom, give them a significant amount of praise. This will help reinforce the fact that going to the bathroom outdoors produces treat rewards. Repeat this process several times, until your dog is comfortable with the concept of going to the bathroom outside. If you do this tactic correctly, it will be greatly beneficial in your overall pet care of your dog.