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> Crate Training For Peace Of Mind
CRATE TRAINING FOR PEACE OF MINDIf you’re
planning on welcoming a new member into your home in the New Year, consider crate
training from day one. It’s effective, and it works. But most of all, it makes
life easier for both you and puppy. Dog
crates reduce mistakes and keep your house free of unwanted smells.
What is a crate?
A crate
is a holding pen for puppies. The puppy must stay within the crate at all times,
except during playtime, walks and ‘toilet time’. This will inhibit puppy from
going to the toilet in your living areas. Always keep puppy leashed when indoors
as this will also reduce toileting incidences. Crate training is considered
to be one of the most effective house training tools for dogs and it is well worth
the initial investment. It is highly recommended for training indoor dogs and
will foster a happy healthy animal with a minimum of stress during the first vital
months. It may not, however, be effective with puppies bought from pet stores
as they have already learnt crate habits. Step 1:
Before bringing
puppy home, invest in a crate and decide where the crate will be positioned. The
best location is where you will want the adult dog to eventually sleep. The crate
size will vary according to the type of breed you choose. Large cardboard boxes
joined together are suitable for small breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Malteses,
however, larger breeds will require a more substantial structure, which are available
from some pet stores. Step 2:
Allow time for puppy to settle.
It will at first cry, however, always wait for the animal to settle before approaching
the crate. This will provide valuable first lessons for puppy and it will learn
to relax and settle much quicker. However, always keep in mind that the crate
is a place of safety and love. Never use the crate as a form of punishment. Step
3:
Toilet training starts immediately. Generally, puppies will need to
toilet every two hours, however, start with a 30 minute cycle. Take the puppy
to a designated ‘toilet’ area in the yard. If the puppy toilets, then praise it
well and play with it for a little while before returning it to the crate. Keep
to a consistent cycle until you become familiar with your puppy’s needs. Step
4:
By this stage, if followed correctly, the puppy has been unable to
leave any scents inside the home. If this has occurred however, clean thoroughly,
as odour residue will inevitably trigger another elimination reflex. Your
puppy will gradually learn that it needs to toilet outside, and the time this
takes varies from dog to dog. The key is to not allow your dog to roam freely
within the home and to remain patient. Using positive reinforcement for good behaviour
will ensure a smooth training process with happy outcomes for everyone concerned.
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