Pets
Should You Be Crate Training Your Dog
By
Sep 29, 2006, 20:23

First, as a responsible pet owner you want your dog to behave properly anywhere you take him. You want them to know what is allowed and what is not allowed so they dont cause any problems in your home or out in public.

This is why you should train your dog. You train them not only to obey your commands but to learn what behavior is acceptable for them.

If you have never trained a dog, you might think that training your dog is a difficult job and can be very time consuming. But, the truth of the matter is, dog training can be easy and fun if you have the determination, and the patience needed to complete it.

Crate training your dog is one of the best things you can do to prevent them from being a pain in your home. A kennel crate is an effective housebreaking tool and can really help reduce separation anxiety, prevent unwanted behaviors (such as chewing your rug or furniture) and keep them away from dangerous household items (poisonous chemicals, electrical wires). A kennel crate is also a great tool in moving your dog indoors and outdoors.

The first thing you should know about kennel crates is that it should never be used as a tool for punishing your dog. This is because most dogs spent some time in a kennel crate before you took them home. This means that your dog will consider a kennel crate as their hang out or a place to rest. Most dogs come to love their crate as a child would his very own room.

Getting your dog used to the kennel crate can be very useful and convenient. So, here are the ways on how to crate train your dog:

First, you have to choose what type of crate you like for your dog. There are basically two kinds of kennel crates available. The first is the Vari-Kennel Type and the second is called the Wire Mesh Type.

In the Vari-Kennel Type, you have to take the crate apart by removing the screws, the top and the door. This will allow your pup to go in and out the bottom half of the crate. After they get a used to it, you can now put the top back in its place. This may require you to practice this step for a few times. But some puppies will take to the crate right away, and you may not have to encourage them to do so, then you can move on to the next step.

With the wire mesh type crate, you have to tie the crate back door allowing it to stay open without shutting it close or moving. If this type of crate comes with a floor pan, it is wise that you should put a towel or cardboard underneath it to prevent it from rattling and scaring your dog away.

Once your dog has accepted the kennel crate, the next step would be putting in your dog’s favorite toys and some dog treats at the far end of the crate opening. An example of a great toy for your dog is a ball. It should be large enough so that your dog cannot swallow it and it should be inedible. If the dog’s chewing has separated a piece of the toy, you should remove it immediately to prevent internal obstruction or choking.

Another great toy for your dog in the crate is by filling a sterilized marrow bone filled with cheese or dog treats. Your dog will surely enjoy this kind of toy and you could get them to play with it for hours.

Water should also be placed inside the kennel crate. Make sure that it is tied firmly on the kennel crate to prevent your dog from spilling the water in it or to play with it.

Your pet’s comfort is also important. This is why you should put beddings or towels to create a soft and comfortable bed for your dog. However, if ever your dog chews the beddings or the towel; you should remove it along with the pieces that has been chewed off to prevent them from swallowing and choking on it.

These are the basic things you should do to crate train your dog. Always remember, their comfort should be your number one priority. In order to keep them from feeling lonely or isolated, you should visit them often and place the kennel close to where you are. Your dog does not want to be all alone.

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