Why crate?

Many people believe that crating a dog is cruel. In reality, providing your dog with a safe, secure environment is the best thing you can do for him. For eons, wild dogs sought out dens that were small, enclosed spaces where they could be safe from predators. In modern times, a crate can be used to serve that purpose...and many more.

Consider this - in a typical home, family members have a space to call their own - known as a "room". It is a place where they can express themselves (within safety and health code restrictions) but, nonetheless, they can go there to get away from the common areas of the house. When you set up a crate properly, your dog will welcome the fact that he has his own "room" as well.

While most people associate crate training with puppies, it can be an effective way to make an adult dog feel safe as well and is useful in managing the negative behaviors that may be associated with boredom and/or separation anxiety.

What a Crate does for you:

1. Allows you to feel comfortable when you have to leave your dog home alone.
2. Helps with housebreaking because dogs tend to not eliminate where they sleep. which can help avoid "accidents" during the night or when left alone.
3. Provides a safe place for your dog duing chaotic times or when you have guests.
4. Provides a safe way to transport your dog - vacation, vet visits, etc.

What a crate does for your dog:

1. Provides a "quiet place" when things get too hectic.
2. Avoid confusion from punishment for behavior when not supervised.
3. Helps him learn control which helps in housebreaking.
4. Allows him to be a part of family gatherings and not be banished to the yard basement.
5. Gives your dog the chance to join the family on outings and vacations - rather than be confined to a boarding kennel.

Choosing a Crate

There are several types of crates available - from hard, plastic travel crates, to wire mesh crates, to designer crates that come in a variety of materials to match almost any decor. The choice is up to the owner because, honestly, the dog doesn't care.

The most important aspect of choosing a crate must be the size. The crate should be long enough to allow the dog to lay down stretched out flat on his side, and tall enough to allow the dog to sit up without hitting his head. If the dog is a puppy, it may be difficult to guess his size in adulthood. In this case, it is better to have a crate that is too large than one that is too small.

Placement and Furnishing the Crate

Even though the crate may not be the most attractive accessory in the home, it should be placed in a well-travelled area so that the dog feels a part of the family. The crate should also be located away from drafts or a direct heat source that could make it uncomfortable for the dog.
Since the crate is meant to be an inviting place, it should contain a towel or blanket to make it a comfortable bed. However, if the dog chews the bedding or eliminates in the crate, then the bedding should be removed until the behavior stops. Also, when introducing the crate, be sure to place some favorite (and safe) toys and treats in the crate - Kongs, Nylabones, and treats are a good start. If the dog will be in the crate for an extended period, a bottle of water (like a hamster) should be provided as well. Avoid using water bowls as they could spill and soak the bedding.
Even though the crate may not be the most attractive accessory in the home, it should be placed in a well-travelled area so that the dog feels a part of the family. The crate should also be located away from drafts or a direct heat source that could make it uncomfortable for the dog.

Introducing the Crate Routine

The crate should ALWAYS be viewed as a positive experience for the dog. NEVER use it as a punishment or force the dog into the crate and shut the door. This could lead to negative associations that may be IMPOSSIBLE to reverse. Instead, take the time to introduce the crate as a positive place right from the beginning.

In Puppies:
1. Set up the crate in a well-travelled area. Throughout the day, drop small treats into the crate for your dog to find. Try feeding the puppy in the crate to help build a strong positive association with it.
2. In the beginning, praise your puppy when he enters the crate. Do not push or force the puppy into the crate. Allow the puppy to enter and leave the crate at will. When you feel that the puppy is comfortable with the crate, you may begin to lure the puppy into the crate and offer a click when he enters.
3. After several trials at this, show the puppy the treat and then drop it into the crate. Praise the puppy when he ebters on his own.
4. When the puppy is completely comfortable with his "room", wait until he is fed and had emptied his bladder and is ready for a nap, lure the puppy into the crate and close the door. You may want to place a new toy in the crate. Be sure to stay nearby to reassure the puppy that you are there. Hopefully, the puppy will be tired enough to go to sleep. If he does, leave him in the crate until it's time to potty again.
5. Teach your puppy to stay in the crate when you go out by introducing him to the idea of being in the crate when you are in another room. Start with a few minutes and then work up to longer.

NOTE - If the puppy whines, DO NOT let him out until he is quiet for at least 30 seconds and then open the door matter of factly (not praise) so the puppy doesn't get the idea that coming out is better than going in.

In Adult Dogs:
Use the same techniques as with puppies.

Crate Duration Guidelines

9- 10 weeks no more than 30 - 60 minutes
11 - 14 weeks approx 1 - 3 hours
15 - 16 weeks approx 3 - 4 hours
17 week and older approx 4 - 6 hours