I’m getting a new puppy next week, a Golden Retriever, and I really want to crate train it from the start. I’ve read a few things online, but I’m feeling a little overwhelmed. I want to do it the right way, making sure the crate is a positive and safe space for my puppy, not a punishment. Can you give me a detailed guide on how to crate train my dog, covering everything from introducing the crate for the first time to eventually leaving him alone in it for longer periods? I’m especially interested in tips for making the crate comfortable and appealing, dealing with whining or barking, and figuring out the appropriate length of time he should be crated at different stages of his development. Also, are there any common mistakes I should avoid during the crate training process? How do I crate train my dog?

Answer

1. Introduction to the Crate:

• Choose the Right Crate: Select a crate that’s appropriately sized. Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not have excessive space. Too much space might encourage them to eliminate in one area and sleep in another. If you have a puppy, consider a crate with a divider that can be adjusted as they grow.

• Make it Inviting: Place soft bedding, like a blanket or dog bed, inside the crate to make it cozy. Include a few safe and durable chew toys to keep your dog entertained. Consider using a crate cover to provide a den-like atmosphere, which can make some dogs feel more secure.

• Positive Association: Never force your dog into the crate or use it as punishment. The goal is to make the crate a positive and safe space.

2. Initial Training Steps:

• Introduce the Crate: Leave the crate door open and encourage your dog to explore it at their own pace. Toss treats or toys inside to entice them to enter. Praise them enthusiastically when they go inside, even if it’s just for a moment.

• Feeding in the Crate: Start feeding your dog their meals inside the crate. Place the food bowl near the back of the crate at first. As your dog becomes more comfortable, gradually move the bowl further into the crate until they are fully inside while eating.

• Short Crate Sessions: Once your dog is eating comfortably in the crate, start closing the door for short periods while they are eating. Gradually increase the duration they spend in the crate with the door closed. Start with a few seconds and gradually work your way up to several minutes. Always stay nearby and remain calm.

3. Extending Crate Time:

• Practice When You’re Home: Once your dog is comfortable with short crate sessions, begin practicing when you’re home but not actively interacting with them. Encourage them to go into the crate with a treat or toy, close the door, and then go about your normal activities, like reading or watching TV. Gradually increase the time they spend in the crate.

• Associate with Relaxing Activities: Give your dog a special chew toy or stuffed Kong only when they are in the crate. This helps create a positive association with being confined.

• Gradual Departures: Start by leaving the room for a few minutes while your dog is in the crate. Gradually increase the duration of your absence. It can be helpful to leave a radio or television on at a low volume to provide background noise.

4. Crate Training at Night:

• Consistent Bedtime Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime routine. Take your dog outside to eliminate before putting them in the crate for the night.

• Crate Placement: Initially, place the crate in your bedroom so your dog feels secure and close to you. Once they are comfortable, you can gradually move the crate to another location if desired.

• Ignore Whining: It’s normal for puppies to whine or cry when first crated at night. Resist the urge to let them out unless you are certain they need to eliminate. Ignoring the whining will teach them that crying won’t get them what they want. If the whining persists for an extended period, take them outside for a potty break, but do so without talking or playing with them. Return them immediately to the crate.

5. Addressing Potential Problems:

• Anxiety: If your dog exhibits signs of severe anxiety in the crate, such as excessive drooling, panting, or destructive behavior, consult with a veterinarian or certified professional dog trainer. They can help identify the underlying cause of the anxiety and recommend appropriate solutions.

• Potty Accidents: If your dog is having accidents in the crate, make sure they are being taken outside frequently enough. Clean any accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odors that might attract them to eliminate in the same spot again. Re-evaluate the crate size to ensure it is not too large.

• Whining/Barking: Determine the cause of the whining or barking. Is it attention-seeking, anxiety-related, or does your dog need to eliminate? Address the underlying cause accordingly. Avoid giving in to attention-seeking behavior, but address potential anxiety issues with patience and positive reinforcement.

6. General Tips:

• Consistency is Key: Be consistent with your crate training efforts. Regular, short sessions are more effective than infrequent, long ones.

• Patience: Crate training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your dog doesn’t take to it immediately.

• Positive Reinforcement: Always use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and toys, to reward your dog for good behavior in the crate.

• Never Use as Punishment: Never use the crate as a form of punishment. This will create a negative association with the crate and make it more difficult to train your dog.

• Supervise Puppies: Puppies should not be left in a crate for excessive periods. They need frequent potty breaks and social interaction. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold their bladder for one hour for every month of age, plus one.

• Adult Dog Crate Time: Adult dogs can typically handle longer periods in the crate, but should still have regular opportunities for exercise and socialization. Eight hours is typically the maximum for an adult dog during the day.