Crate Training Rules: Crate Training Dogs Is Easy If You Know What To Do

Training a dog can be frustrating, but if you know the “rules of crate training” this particular task can be much easier.

One of the first things to consider, whether you have a new puppy or an adult dog, is crate training. This is because dogs need structure and actually do better when they have set rules to follow. Crate training can offer both structure and give your dog a safe place to call his own.

However, while it may seem like a simple concept, crate training dogs can be quite difficult.

You see, there is a bit of psychology in your dog’s head when you try to crate train him. For that reason, you need to know when (and when not) to try to coax your dog into his crate.

The basics of crate training for dogs are actually the same as any other type of dog training. You must be consistent and persistent, but also let the dog know clearly what you want. Always use the same word or command to indicate that you want the dog to go to his crate and use a firm (but not “mean”) voice. Never yell at the dog: Reward-based training works best when crate training dogs.

Crate training for dogs has certain drawbacks that other types of training do not have due to the fact that you are using an object, the crate, as part of the training. Because of this, there are some box training rules that need to be followed:

1. Never send your dog to his crate to punish him. If you do this, then your dog will associate the crate with being a “bad boy.” Would you like to go somewhere “bad boys” are supposed to go? Neither does your dog. He wants you to associate his crate with safety and comfort, so keep this in mind when he trains.

2. Don’t rush things. You need to do a gradual introduction between the dog and the crate. Always be sure to associate the crate with a positive experience and reward your dog when he enters the crate on command.

3. Never crate your dog for long periods of time or leave him there when you know he needs to go to the bathroom. This will only make him want to avoid the box in the future. And if you make this mistake and then your dog “potties him” in the crate, don’t yell at him and tell him he’s a bad boy, it’s not his fault, it’s yours!

4. When you let your dog out of the crate, immediately take him outside to relieve himself. This can actually be very useful in breaking and entering.

5. Never force your dog into the crate if he doesn’t want to, especially if he’s stressed, scared, or anxious. It’s a different thing though if he chooses to go in there himself.

If you follow these crate training rules, you’ll soon have a dog who runs to his crate at your command, and he likes it! In fact, my little Pom loved her cage so much that she would run in there by herself whenever she was scared or anxious.

With a little patience, you’ll find that crate training dogs isn’t that difficult and will strengthen the bond between you and your best friend.