Many years ago, it was considered cruel to crate a dog. Historically dogs have sought out “dens” – small places where they can go for safety. Crating your dog can give him that feeling of safety as it mimics his “den”. Crating your dog isn’t cruel – in fact, he will probably like it!
It is a good idea to find out what your breeder has been using for puppy elimination. However, most breeders, vets and trainers recommend purchasing a crate for a new puppy owner as it is a basic piece of equipment.
8 reasons why proper crate-training for your puppy is beneficial:
- It helps with house training, by limiting a puppy’s options and sets the stage for training that uses positive reinforcement;
- Sets up a schedule to accommodate his needs – puppies can’t go very long without eating, drinking, sleeping, or relieving themselves;
- Assists in moulding his behaviour;
- Prevents destructive behaviour;
- Serves as a retreat for the puppy, especially in a busy household with children;
- Safe place when travelling;
- For illness – if an overnight stay is required at a vet;
- Helps with anxiety – it enables the puppy to settle down. Please note adult dogs with severe separation anxiety may not do well in a crate.
How long can a puppy stay in a crate? A good rule of thumb is the same number of hours as his age in months. So a two-month-old puppy can be confined for two hours, a three-month-old puppy for three hours, and so on.
Never misuse the crate. Do not leave a puppy in a crate for more than four hours at a time. At a certain point, puppies will sleep through the night. Do not use the crate as a means of punishment for the puppy.
A puppy needs regular exercise, both mental and physical.
A tired puppy is a well-behaved puppy.
At Divine Dog Care, we use a positive approach to crate training. Topics cover feeding schedule, training with a crate, and a puppy potty strategy. One or two visits are available to include mid-day meal, short walk and playtime. Training is not a one-shot deal, but an intrinsic and ongoing part of the promise you make when you bring her/him into your life. Please feel free to contact us regarding this service.Photos are provided as a sample of “proper crate training”.