What Is Crate Training?
Crate training is a process of teaching your dog to view a crate as their safe, personal space.
This helps to provide structure, security for you and your pet. While it can be a helpful tool to assist with toilet training and creating a safe place to leave a puppy and dog, many dog owners may still find themselves wondering if it’s necessary for their pet.
Crates should always be introduced positively and never used as punishment.
Should I crate train my dog?
While it may not be necessary for every dog, especially if you have a different training approach in mind, crate training is an effective tool for many dog owners looking to create structure and security in their dog's routine.
Crates can also be used while travelling to aid rest and recovery after surgery or injury.
How to crate train your dog or puppy: Step-by-step guide
1. Choose the right crate
- Select a crate that’s appropriately sized—enough room for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- Consider the material the crate is made from and the furnishings, such as bedding, water bowls, covers and toys that need to go inside with your dog.
- Choose a crate with a secure door that closes easily.
2. Introduce the crate
- Place the crate in a common area where the family spends time, like the living room.
- Keep the door open and allow your dog to explore the inside of it freely.
- Use treats, toys and a soft blanket inside to make it inviting.
3. Positive association with the crate
- Feed meals inside the crate to create a positive connection.
- Gradually encourage your dog to enter by placing treats or favourite toys inside.
- Avoid forcing your dog in—let them approach on their own.
4. Close the door gradually
- Start closing the door for a few seconds while your dog is eating or playing inside.
- Slowly increase the time the door is closed, giving praise and treats when your dog remains calm.
- Progress to closing the door for longer periods as your dog becomes more comfortable.
5. Short crate sessions
- Begin leaving your dog in the crate for short intervals while you’re at home.
- Gradually increase the time spent in the crate, ensuring positive reinforcement when they remain calm.
6. Nighttime crating
- Crate your dog overnight to establish a routine. Place it near your bed to reduce anxiety.
- Avoid leaving them to 'cry it out' as this will create negative association with the crate. Gradually get them use to the crate at nighttime.
7. Gradual alone time
- Once your dog is comfortable in the crate with you around, start leaving the room for brief periods.
- Gradually increase the duration of your absences, always returning calmly and without making a big fuss.
8. Don’t use the crate as punishment
- Never use the crate as a form of punishment, as it will create negative associations.
- Ensure it remains a safe and comfortable space for your dog.
9. Regular breaks and exercise
- Make sure to take your dog out for exercise and to relieve themselves regularly.
- The time spent inside should be balanced with time outside for play and training.
10. Patience and consistency
- Be patient—crate training can take time, especially with a puppy.
- Stay consistent with the process and avoid rushing through the steps.
11. Crate training for all the family
- When introducing a crate into the home with children, teach them behaviours to help crate training run smoothly. Consider the below:
- Explain to your child that they should not disturb the puppy/dog while in the crate
- Do not leave your dog/children alone in the room where the crate is
By following these steps, you can effectively crate train your dog, creating a safe and secure space while building a positive relationship with the crate.
Benefits of Crate Training
- Safe space: Provides a secure environment for your dog when you’re not around, reducing anxiety and preventing destructive behaviour.
- Prevents destruction: Keeps your dog from chewing furniture or getting into harmful substances while unsupervised.
- Avoids toilet training: It can help with toilet training by encouraging your dog to hold their bladder until let outside.
- Travel safety: Familiarises your dog with a crate, making travel in a car or airplane more comfortable and safer.
- Promotes routine: Helps establish a daily routine, which is essential for puppies, offering structure and predictability.
- Reduces anxiety: A crate can provide a calming retreat for dogs, giving them a place to relax during stressful situations.
- Supports Independence: Teaches dogs to feel comfortable alone, reducing separation anxiety over time.
Additional Tips for Dog and Puppy Crate Training
- Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise or toys every time they enter voluntarily or remain calm inside.
- Avoid long periods: Don’t leave your dog in the crate for too long—puppies need frequent breaks, and adult dogs shouldn’t be crated for more than 4-6 hours at a time.
- Crate as a positive place: Keep it a fun and rewarding space, not a place of isolation, by always pairing it with enjoyable experiences.
- Never use for punishment: Don’t use it as a time-out or punishment; it should remain a safe and positive environment.
- Gradual transition: Increase crate time slowly to avoid overwhelming your dog, especially if they’re new to crating.
- Provide comfort: Add soft bedding or a favourite toy inside to make it comfortable and cozy.
- Use a consistent command: Develop a consistent cue or command for entering (e.g., “crate” or “bed”), so your dog associates the word with the action.
- Cover the crate: If your dog is easily distracted, try covering it with a blanket to create a den-like environment, promoting calmness.
Conclusion
Crate training is a valuable tool for both you and your dog, offering numerous benefits.
By following this step-by-step guide and following the above tips, you can create a positive, secure environment for your dog while reinforcing good behaviour and routines.
Whilst not every dog may need it, it can be incredibly helpful in managing both their safety and well-being.
Remember, patience, consistency and positive reinforcement are key to successful training, ensuring that your dog feels comfortable and confident in their crate.
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Dog Crate Training FAQs
How long does it take to crate train a dog?
The time it takes varies depending on the dog’s age, temperament and previous experiences. For most dogs, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to get fully comfortable with the training. Consistency and patience are key.
Can I crate train an older dog?
Yes! While the training is often easier with puppies, adult dogs can still be crate trained. It may take a little longer to establish comfort, but with positive reinforcement and gradual introductions, most adult dogs adapt well.
What if my dog cries in the crate?
It’s common for puppies or dogs that are just starting to use a crate to whine or cry at first. Avoid responding immediately to the crying, as this can reinforce the behaviour. Gradually increase crate time and try using a comfort item like a blanket or toy. If the crying persists, it might be due to anxiety, and you may need to address that with training or consult a professional. This could also be a sign that the training is going too quicky and you may need to go at a slower pace and start a few steps back to retrain them.
How do I know if my dog is ready for crate training?
Dogs are usually ready for training once they’re settled into their new home and are beginning to learn basic house rules. It’s important to wait until they’re comfortable with their environment and able to handle short periods of time alone.
Can I crate train my dog while I’m at work?
It’s possible, but it’s important to balance crate time with breaks for exercise and bathroom needs. If you're gone for long hours, consider a dog walker or a pet sitter to let your dog out and offer social interaction.
Should I crate train my dog overnight?
Yes, many owners crate their dogs overnight to help with toilet training and provide a sense of security. Just be sure the crate is in a comfortable location and remember to take your dog out for bathroom breaks if they’re very young or haven’t yet mastered toilet training.
