A Beginners Guide to Crate Training: 5 Simple Steps

If you've got a new furry friend in the house, or maybe you're dealing with some tricky behavior issues, crate training could be the game-changer you're looking for. Read on for the five essential steps to crate train a puppy or new dog.

But first, why bother with crate training at all?

 

The Benefits:

The Desire to Den
In the wild, dogs are natural denning animals. Picture this – your pup seeking out a snug, secure space, much like creating their own cozy den. Introducing a crate to your dog, no matter their age, is like handing them the key to their very own sanctuary. It's a nod to their innate behaviors and desires, providing a safe haven they can call their own.

 

Helping with House Training
Crate training aids toilet training by capitalising on dogs' natural instinct to keep their space clean. It promotes bladder control, establishes a routine for bathroom breaks, and minimizes those "whoopsy" accidents. The positive reinforcement for outdoor elimination and the patience learned during crate time contribute to a less stressful, successful toilet training plan.

 

Prep for Life Beyond Home
Getting your dog comfortable with a crate isn't just about home sweet home. It's about preparing them for the outside world. From vet visits to grooming sessions and those adventurous car rides, crates are part of the bigger picture to keep your pup safe and secure. So, introducing them to the crate at home is like giving them a backstage pass to navigate the world beyond where they're likely to encounter one.

 

Independence for Your Pooch
While we'd love to spend every waking hour with our furry friends, life sometimes calls us away. That's where crate training works its magic, instilling in your dog a sense of confidence and routine that it's okay to be on their own. It's like giving them the superhero cape of self-reliance, ensuring they're comfortable and content when you need to be away for a bit.

 

 

5 Simple Steps:

Step 1: Size Matters!
When choosing a dog crate, think Goldilocks: Too small, and you dog won't be turn around or stand up. Too large, and they're more likely to have toilet accidents and not feel snug enough. The Tame Dog Den has been carefully designed to suit most breeds weighing less than 16 kg. Check out our Dog Size Guide for more detail.

 

Step 2: Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Most dogs will be naturally inquisitive of their new crate, but aren't likely to be confident around it just yet. Take it slow, begin by placing treats and toys inside, allowing the dog to explore at its own pace. This builds positive associations, reducing anxiety and fear. As their confidence builds, praise them when they're brave enough to venture in to their new home.

 

 

Step 3: Meal time = Crate Time
As your dog becomes more confident around their crate, start putting their food bowl in there at meal times. For hesitant dogs, put the bowl nearer the door and keep moving it further back as they become more assured and willing.
Once they’re happily venturing in to eat, start closing the door at meal times. Initially, you’ll want to open the door immediately after they finish eating and then start building up how long you keep the door closed after meal time. If they start to cry, don't open the door until they've stopped. You don't want to teach them that crying will get them out. Once they're calm, open the door and offer praise.

 

 

 

Step 4: Rely on Routines
Dogs are creatures of habit, just like us! Create a routine for play time, meals, bathroom breaks, and crate time. At first this crate time can be 30 secs, then a couple of mins, gradually building up to an hour or so as the days and weeks progress. Your dog will slowly start to learn this is their relaxing time. It's important to remember routine is key for your own behaviour too, be consistent to reinforce the training and build on the progress. 
 This is particular important at night time. Consider moving the crate to the bedroom for the first week or so, allowing them to feel your presence. If your dog whines or cries at night, assess whether it's due to discomfort or a genuine need to go outside. If the crying is for attention, it's important to resist the urge to respond immediately. Ignoring attention-seeking behavior helps your dog understand that whining won't result in getting out of the crate. For puppies or dogs with limited bladder control, schedule a few brief bathroom breaks during the night. Keep these breaks calm and quiet, minimizing interaction and light to encourage going back to sleep.

 

Step 5: Introduce Intervals
When your dog is becoming more confident around their crate, make sure they have their favourite toy or treat inside and close the doors.  Be sure to stay in the room so they can still see you, and go about your normal routine. Build this up in intervals, starting with 30 secs, then gradually building up to longer intervals. As this progresses, consider moving to other rooms of the house. Try not to make eye contact with your dog, particularly if they start to cry, but move from room to room to show this is all part of the usual household routine they're now a member of. 
Think of it as like teaching a new trick, step-by-step.

Although not easy, crate training can be hugely rewarding for you and your dog in future. Set a plan, stick with it and be as supportive as possible with your pup, they're learning this too!

For any questions or guidance feel free to reach out to the team at woof@tamehq.com.