Are you trying to house train your dog? Do you want your pet to have a place in the house he can call his own? Would you like to make traveling with your dog easier on both of you? Crate training is the answer to all of those concerns. Crate training your dog takes time, but the benefits far outweigh the effort.
Experts agree that crate training is the best way to house break your dog. In the beginning you should use a crate which is only big enough for your dog to sleep, stand, and turn around. There is a reason for allowing only this small amount of space when you begin training. Dogs are very reluctant to use the bathroom where they sleep. When confined to a small area pets will generally wait until you take them outside. You should take them outside immediately after taking them out of the crate. Your dog will begin to realize that he should wait until he can use the restroom outside. In time your dog can be moved to a larger crate with more space.
Once your pet is accustomed to his crate, he will begin to see it as a place of security and safety. Do not worry that your dog will feel imprisoned in his crate. Dogs instinctively prefer to rest in a closed in place. You can even teach him the command “crate” or “go to bed”. He will soon begin to go there on his own when he is tired or just wants to relax.
Traveling with your pet is also easier if you have his crate to bring with you. Even though he will be in unfamiliar environments, he will have something familiar. His crate will help him relax during your travels. This will reduce your dog's stress and stress related symptoms. You will both be able to gain greater enjoyment from your travels when you take the crate along.
Crate training will speed up house training, give your dog a sense of security, and help you when you travel. You and your dog deserve all of these things. Crate training does take time and persistence, but it is worth it. |
