Crate Training 101: A Complete Guide
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
If you’ve ever wondered how to give your dog a safe, comfy space while making life easier for yourself, crate training might just be the answer! It’s a fantastic way to help your furry friend feel secure, reduce anxiety, and help with toilet training.
All of our dogs are crate trained here at Perfect Dog Training and we love helping our clients to crate train their dogs. Here our some of our top tips and must-know facts about crate training your dog.
For a more in-depth look at crate training, check out our online training program Crate Training 101
Understanding Crate Training
Crate training is all about teaching your dog to see their crate as a safe space - a place where they can chill out and feel secure. It’s not a punishment tool, but a positive, space that is just for them. We all enjoy having our own space and our dogs are no different!
Here’s why crate training is an essential skill:
Safety: Keeps your dog safe when you can’t supervise them, lowering the risk of them eating things they shouldn't or putting themselves in danger.
House training: Helps to ensure your dog isn't wandering the house to toilet when unsupervised.
Travel: Makes car trips and vet visits less stressful as they're already comfortable being in a crate.
Calmness: Provides a quiet retreat when your dog feels overwhelmed and a space that feels safe.
Choosing the right crate is key. It should be big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Wire crates, plastic crates, and soft-sided crates all have their pros and cons. For example, wire crates offer great ventilation and visibility, while plastic crates feel more enclosed and secure.
How to Introduce Your Dog to Their Crate
Introducing your dog to the crate should be a gentle, positive experience. Here’s a step-by-step approach to get you started:
Make it inviting: Make sure there is a soft bed inside and a cosy blanket.
Use treats: Throw treats inside to encourage your dog to explore their crate.
Feed meals in the crate: This builds a positive association with being in their crate.
Keep the door open at first: Let your dog come and go freely and explore their crate in their own time, without pressure.
Short stays: Gradually close the door for a few minutes, then increase the time. Adding a LickiMat can help to keep them occupied. (Use code PERFECTDOGTRAINING20 to get 20% off LickiMats).
Stay nearby: Sit in a nearby room while they get used to their crate.
Building positive association with the crate is key! Try dropping a treat in the crate every time you walk past to reward your dog for being calm in their crate.
Tips for Successful Crate Training
Now that your dog is comfortable with the crate, here are some practical tips to help ensure your dog's crate training will be successful:
Keep sessions short: Start with 10-15 minutes and build up.
Use the crate regularly: Make it part of daily routines.
Provide plenty of exercise through the day: A tired dog is more likely to settle.
Be consistent: Use the same cues like “crate” or “bedtime.”
Monitor your dog’s behaviour: If they seem stressed, slow down the process.
Remember, every dog is different. Some take to crate training quickly, while others need more time. Celebrate small wins and stay positive!
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Crate training isn’t always smooth sailing. You might face some challenges along the way, but don’t worry - these are totally normal! Remember that process is rarely linear!
Whining and barking: This usually means your dog wants attention or needs a toilet break. Make sure they’ve had a chance to go outside before crating and ensure that you're providing adequate exercise and stimulation through the day.
Refusal to enter: Try throwing treats into the crate to teach them to enter their crate happily.
Chewing the crate: Provide chew toys through the day and ensure your dog gets enough exercise and stimulation. Chewing is often a sign of boredom.
Separation anxiety: If your dog panics when left alone, crate training can help, but it might take longer and require extra support. Get in touch for one to one support.
I highly recommend checking out our online training program Crate Training 101 for expert advice.
Making Crate Training Work for Your Lifestyle
The beauty of crate training is how flexible it can be. Whether you’re at home, at work, or travelling, a crate can be your dog’s safe haven. Here are some ways to fit crate training into your daily life:
At home: Use the crate during meal prep or cleaning time to keep your dog safe.
When out: Crate your dog before leaving the house to prevent accidents and keep them safe from household dangers.
At night: Many dogs sleep better in a crate, feeling secure and less likely to roam, getting a higher quality sleep and improving their mood.
On trips: Bring the crate along to new places to help your dog to have a familiar, safe resting place that will help them to settle in.
By integrating crate training into your routine, you’re setting your dog up for success.
Your Next Steps to a Happier Dog
Crate training is a wonderful tool that benefits both you and your dog. It creates a safe space, encourages good behaviour, and helps manage anxiety. With patience, consistency, and a little know-how, you’ll see your dog thrive.
Ready to get started? Remember, the key is to keep things positive and fun.
If you want to explore more tips and expert guidance, don’t forget to visit Crate Training 101.