Why you Should Always Use a Crate

Training a puppy or a new dog to use a crate in your home and ensuring they do not fear it can offer many benefits. These advantages extend to you and your dog, fostering a harmonious living environment and contributing to your dog's overall well-being. 

While some pet owners may be “against it,” crate training, when done correctly, can prevent destructive behaviours, facilitate house training, and provide a safe haven for your pet. This blog post will explore the benefits of crate training for both the dog and the owner, offer tips on how to train your dog to use the crate effectively, and discuss the potential downfalls of neglecting this crucial aspect of training.

5 Benefits of Crate Training Your Dog

As mentioned, crate training offers numerous benefits for both dogs and their owners. Understanding these advantages can motivate you to incorporate this practice into your dog’s training routine.

Here are just a few of the benefits that the crate can provide:

1. Safety and Security: A crate offers a safe space for your dog, reducing the risk of injury or accidents when unsupervised. This is particularly important during puppyhood, when dogs are more prone to chewing and getting into hazardous situations.
2. House Training: Crates are invaluable tools for house training. Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping area, so a crate encourages them to hold their bladder until they are let outside, expediting the house training process.
3. Preventing Destructive Behavior: When left alone, dogs can become anxious and engage in destructive behaviours such as chewing furniture or shoes. A crate prevents access to such temptations and helps maintain a tidy home.
4. Providing a Personal Space: Dogs benefit from having a designated personal space to retreat and relax. A crate serves as a sanctuary where they can feel safe and unwind.
5. Management of Your Pet: The crate can also help manage your pet. Let’s say you have visitors over, and your dog gets overly excited or anxious when people come around. The crate provides a safe space for your dog to calm down and relax while your guests get settled, allowing for a more joyful visit.

How to Train Your Dog to Use Their Crate

Like all other training tactics and commands, training your dog to use its crate effectively requires patience and consistency. This command is not one you and your dog will understand on the first try. So, practice with your dog multiple times throughout the day, for a few minutes each time, to effectively teach the “crate” command.

Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Positive Association: Begin by creating a positive association with the crate. Place a treat inside the crate to entice them to explore the space willingly. Allow them to freely enter and exit the crate, ensuring the experience is stress-free and rewarding.
2. Introducing the Command: Once your dog is comfortable going into the crate independently, introduce a specific command, such as "crate" or "kennel." Use a calm and clear tone when giving the command to help your dog associate the word with the action.
3. Treats and Praise: Whenever your dog responds to the command and enters the crate, immediately reward it with praise and treats. Positive reinforcement reinforces the behaviour and encourages it to be repeated willingly. 
4. Gradual Duration: Gradually extend the duration your dog stays in the crate after responding to the command. Start with short periods and gradually increase the time as the dog becomes more accustomed to staying inside. Always ensure that the time spent in the crate remains positive and enjoyable.
5. Gradual Distance: Once your dog confidently stays in the crate, add distance between yourself and the crate. Begin by stepping back and returning immediately to reward them for staying. Gradually increase the distance over time.
6. Release Command: Teach your dog a release command, such as "okay" or "free." Use this command to signal the end of crate time and allow your dog to exit the crate. Always reward them for patiently waiting for the release command.
7. Consistency and Patience: Consistency is key to successful crate training. Practice the crate and stay commands regularly, ensuring you maintain a positive and patient attitude throughout the training process.

Downfalls of Not Incorporating Crate Training

Neglecting crate training can lead to several issues affecting the dog and the owner. Understanding these potential problems underscores the importance of crate training.

1. Increased Risk of Accidents: Without crate training, your dog may be more prone to accidents in the house. A crate helps with house training by encouraging your dog to hold its bladder until it is outside.
2. Destructive Behavior: Dogs left unsupervised without a crate may engage in destructive behaviours such as chewing furniture, shoes, and other household items. This can lead to costly repairs and replacements.
3. Difficulty in Travel: Dogs not accustomed to crates may experience stress and anxiety during travel. A crate-trained dog is more likely to remain calm and secure during trips.
4. Higher Stress Levels: Dogs without a designated safe space can experience higher stress levels, especially in unfamiliar environments or during stressful situations like vet visits.
5. Challenges in Boarding or Vet Visits: Dogs not crate trained may struggle with stays at boarding facilities or during vet visits. Crate training helps your dog feel more comfortable, reducing anxiety.

Crate Training: The iTK9 Way

Crate training is a vital aspect of responsible dog ownership that offers numerous benefits for the dog and the owner. It ensures safety, aids in-house training, prevents destructive behaviours, and makes travel and vet visits less stressful. 

Following consistent training techniques can help your dog see the crate as a positive and secure space. If you find yourself struggling, our team of experienced professionals can help. We do the hard work for you to attain a happy home and a healthy relationship with your pet.

Included in all of our programs are the following;

1. In-Person Learning: Midway progress training video, two go-home lessons.
2. Online Learning: Owner education course, instructional training videos, iTK9 member community, e-books & additional training resources.
3. Owner Support: Photo updates of your dog training with our team and access to our team for questions & support.

Contact us today for more information on our programs, including Board & Train.