Crate Training Puppies

Choose a crate that is just big enough for your dog to stand, sit, and turn-around comfortably. If the crate is too big it may encourage them to soil in it, making house training more difficult. Select a good location for the crate. In your bedroom is good at night, but while you are home during the day, it's best to have the crate near people.

Tie the door open or take the door off at first. Let the dog notice the crate and examine it if he wishes. Throw toys or treats in to make the crate more interesting for the dog. Reward him with positive language when he goes in and pet him while he is in the crate. Begin feeding the dog in the crate. Once the dog is comfortable going into the crate (this could take from an hour to several weeks to achieve), then begin closing the door for short periods of time while you are right there.

If the dog whines or barks to get out, don't let him out and don't sweet-talk him. Wait until there is a moment when he isn't whining, then you can let him out. If you let him out while he is whining, you are teaching him that whining works with you. Crate training is most effective when it isn't rushed. If the dog is uncomfortable at a particular step, back up to the previous step.

Once the dog accepts the door closed while you are there, begin leaving the room for short periods and gradually lengthening the time you are gone. Having safe toys in the crate is useful during this step. Remember when you close the dog in the crate remove collars and leads so they cannot choke by getting them caught on the crate.

Close the dog in at bedtime and let it out first thing in the morning. If you are house training a young puppy, you will probably be going outside with it in the middle of the night for a while. One final tip- never put the dog in the crate as punishment. You want the dog to think of the crate as a positive and comfortable place to stay.

- Cori Stava, DVM