6 reasons to do Crate Training

Crate training is a popular method that many dog owners use to help their puppies behave well and feel comfortable in their surroundings. Although some people may have concerns about using a crate, when done correctly, crate training can have many advantages for both the puppy and the owner. Let’s explore some of the benefits of crate training a puppy.

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1. Safety and Security: A crate provides a safe and secure space for your puppy when you can’t watch them directly. It’s like a cozy den where they can feel protected and relaxed. This is especially important when you’re not at home or when you’re sleeping at night. A crate keeps your puppy from getting into dangerous situations or causing damage to your home.

2. Help with Housebreaking: Crate training can be a helpful tool in teaching your puppy to go potty outside. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area, so by keeping them in a crate, you encourage them to hold their pee and poop until you let them out. This helps establish a routine and teaches them that going outside is the right place to relieve themselves. Also make sure to check out our blog on new puppy naps  Puppy Naps are Important

3. Preventing Destructive Behavior: Puppies are known for chewing on furniture, shoes, and other things around the house. By crate training, you can stop your puppy from engaging in destructive behavior when you can’t watch them. A crate provides a safe space where they can relax and chew on appropriate toys, which reduces the chances of them damaging your belongings. Also include some puppy safe chew toys within the crate such as the ones listed below

4. Travel and Vet Visits: Crate training makes traveling with your puppy much easier and less stressful. Whether you’re going on a trip or visiting the vet, having a crate-trained puppy ensures they have a familiar and secure space to stay in. It also helps them feel more comfortable and less anxious during these outings. Our use of crates for training has helped immensely in our travel. Check out images here of the locations we have been too. https://garyfelton.com/

5. Setting Boundaries: Crate training helps set boundaries and teaches your puppy to respect your home. By keeping them in a crate when needed, you are making it clear what they can and cannot do. This can lead to better behavior and obedience in other areas of their life.

6. Easier Training: Crate training can make other types of training, like housebreaking, obedience, and leash training, more effective. When your puppy feels comfortable in their crate, they are more likely to be open to learning and following commands. The crate can also be used as a reward system, where your puppy gets treats or praise for good behavior inside the crate.  We explain on a secure nap time needed for pups here The Importance of Puppy Naps

Then there is the Just in Case.

There may come a time when your dog has to be crated.

If you ever decide to fly. Only small dogs will fit under the seat.

Certain emergencies may cause your pup to be crated at the Vet, at a shelter.

Crating a dog during a natural disaster , weather, fire, etc.

Remember, crate training should always be done in a positive and gradual way.

The crate should never be used as a punishment, and your puppy should never be left in the crate for long periods without breaks. It’s important to make the crate a positive and comfortable space for your puppy, with their favorite toys and bedding.

Here is the crate we used for Traing Jack: The Tray and folding was easy to use and keep clean.  Size appropriate for your dog.

 

In conclusion, crate training has many benefits for both puppies and their owners. It provides a safe and secure space, helps with housebreaking, prevents destructive behavior, makes travel and vet visits easier, sets boundaries, and improves overall training. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, crate training can be a valuable tool in raising a well-behaved and happy puppy.

Let me know if you have any questions or concerns.  This is the time and place to let us know. Just leave a comment below.