Rules Of Crate Training - How To Get Fido To Love His Crate

Just like kids, dogs need rules and guidelines to make them feel safe and secure. If they are left to their own devices, or to figure things out for them selves, then they will experience confusion and chaos instead of trust and calm. This actually applies to any dog who is coming into a new environment, regardless of age. Every dog needs to have parameters set, and knowing the rules of crate training can help you provide this structure for your pet.

In order to be successful at crate training your dog, you need to keep a few things in mind. Of course, you want to use the basics of dog training when trying to get your dog to use a crate, but there are some things specific to crates that you need to keep in mind as well. Here are 5 rules of crate training that will help you successfully train your dog:

1. Your dog should associate the crate with safety and comfort, so never use it for punishment because this will make your dog want to avoid the crate instead of making him want to go in it.

2. Crate training can and should be a positive experience for your dog and for you. Introduction to the crate should be gradual and gentle so as not to frighten your dog. Food or toy rewards can help cement a positive impression of the crate.

3. Do not place your dog into the crate until he or she has gotten an opportunity to go outside and do its business. It's not fair to expect a dog to "hold it", especially a puppy who may be physically unable to hold it. Urinating in the crate will reinforce a negative experience.

4. Likewise as soon as you release your dog from the crate he or she should be allowed outside. Doing this can assist with the process of toilet training as it will establish a routine.

5. If your dog is stressed, anxious, or scared you should not place him or her in the crate, no matter what the circumstance. If he or she goes into the crate on his or her own accord, it is a different matter. Otherwise, don't force it.

If you follow these 5 rules of crate training, your experience will be more successful as well as more pleasant for both you and your dog!

About the Author

Lee Dobbins is an avid dog lover who has owned many different types of dogs from a 90 pound Shepherd mix to a pure bred Pomeranian. She shares her years of research and experience in an Ebook and newsletter which you can download for FREE at http://www.dogcareandtrainingtips.com.