Crate training is one of those important things that not all owners know how to do correctly. When done correctly, it should provide your dog with a safe space, and it should promote a calm behavior. A lot of pet owners ignore crate training altogether, and other misuse it. The dog crate, or puppy pen, of your pet, should be a place where they feel comfortable and safe. This article discusses about choosing the right crate, and about helping your pet adjust to the space. There are many misconceptions or just lack of knowledge on topics like these; but it’s important to do your research if you want to give your dog a good life!
What is Crate Training?
Crate training is basically about teaching your dog that a dog crate can be a place where he’s safe. With the help of training, your dog will be able to feel relaxed in a crate. Contrary to popular belief, a dog crate is not about keeping the pet isolated; but rather about routine and discipline. Your pet needs a place that’s only theirs, like you have your bedroom, or so on. With the help of training, you won’t have to bribe your dog into the crate! Dogs are full of energy, they like to play, and run, and so on; sometimes, is they are not disciplined, the playing can turn aggressive. Training, ever since they are just puppies, helps with discipline.
Maybe you didn’t know, but dogs have an instinctual denning behavior. They have the need of a space that’s theirs, where they feel safe. In the wild, a dog would try to find a small space to sleep, or even raise babies! Also, dogs don’t usually wet their sleeping spot; so, if the crate will be a rest place, you could safely keep the dog in the crate if you need to leave the house for a little while, without finding a mess when you come back. If you need to take your dog to the vet, you dog won’t be as stressed when he sees a crate, because he’s used to it! There are many benefits to crate training both for the dog and the owner.
The Difference between a Dog Crate and a Puppy Pen
While these are not both necessary for efficient crate training, it can make the whole process easier for both you and the dog. But first, you need to know the difference between the two. A lot of people believe that these two have the same purpose; but that’s not true. A crate is a small space that your dog will use as a sleeping and resting place. It’s also useful if you need to leave the dog alone for a short period of time; because it keeps the dog safe, and also the furniture around your house!
A puppy pen, also known as a playpen, is a play area. A puppy pen is usually an open-top enclosed area, made out of interconnected panels. It provides more space than a crate, so that your pet can move more freely. It’s a place where the dog usually has food, toys, and can just play and run around. It helps with gradual freedom for puppies, and it provides a space playing space. It’s best when your dog is just a puppy, or very small, so that it doesn’t jump out. Used together, the puppy pen and the crate, it can make the crate training smoother and more flexible for young puppies.
Choosing the Right Dog Crate
Choosing the correct dog crate is more than essential. Depending on your dog’s size and needs, the crate should differ. As a size tip, your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lay down, completely unbothered by the crate; but, it shouldn’t be big enough for them to be able to pee in one corner, and sleep in another one. You must find that ‘sweet spot’ when it comes to the sizing of the crate. Try a few before committing to one size. As for the material, there are a few you could choose from:
- Wire crates – This type of crate has great ventilation, which is a big plus! Also, you have very good visibility. Sometimes, especially with a big and strong dog, a wire crate can collapse; but it depends on the crate and the dog.
- Plastic crates – A plastic crate is best for traveling, but not ideal for crate training. It has an enclosed feel that your dog might not feel comfortable with.
- Furniture-style crates – If you are planning for long-term indoor use, this option could come in handy. You can find one to fit the aesthetic of your home, and fit in perfectly.
- Soft-sided crates – This type is best especially for calm and small dogs.
The Crate Training Itself
You should keep in mind that this process can take a long time, and you need to be patient with your pet. Not all dogs feel safe in confided spaces, so you need to give it time. The first thing you should do is to let the dog explore the crate. Maybe add a bed and a few treats, let the door open, and let your dog get familiar with it. Once your dog is comfortable staying inside, you could try and close the door, but stay around. Even if the dog seems fine, don’t keep the door closed for too long, as you want to start with short sessions.
Then, you just gradually extend the time spend in the crate. Give them toys, stay around and talk with the pet. Remember to constantly use verbal words like “crate”. Also, if the dog starts crying or barking when in the change, wait until they are quiet before opening the door; otherwise, they will learn that barking will just get them out. Once your dog is calm while being in the crate for around 40-60 minutes while you are around, you can try to using the crate for short absences.
Conclusion
A dog crate doesn’t have to be a sad cage for your pet, it can be a safe and comfortable space when they sleep and rest. While it’s true that crate training can take some time and patience; in the end, it’s a good thing for the owner and the pet. At the end of the process, you will have a dog that can be left alone in a crate for an hour or two; and the dog will have a space that’s only his. So, get that crate and that puppy pen, and begin training your puppy!
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