15 Essential Steps To Successfully Crate Train Your Dog


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Crate training is essential for a well-behaved dog. It provides a safe space, aids in housebreaking, and makes travel easier. Proper training ensures your dog sees the crate as a comfort zone, not a punishment. Follow these 15 steps carefully, as each plays a vital role in successful crate training.

Select the Right Crate

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To begin with, it’s important to choose a crate that allows your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A properly sized crate prevents using one corner as a bathroom, providing a snug, den-like feel. This, in turn, sets the foundation for successful training.

Proper Crate Placement

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Positive first impressions are key to acceptance. So, choose to place the crate in a family area and let your dog explore it freely. Such a pressure-free introduction prevents fear, making the crate feel like a natural, non-threatening part of their environment. Leave the door open and avoid forcing them inside.

Create A Cozy Interior

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In order to foster a sense of security and ownership for your pet, consider adding soft bedding and familiar toys. A comfortable setup appeals to your dog’s denning instincts, encouraging voluntary use. Let your dog’s cozy crate become their personal retreat, not a prison!

Use Treats For Encouragement

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Need to entice your dog? Toss treats near and then inside the crate. Praise them warmly when they investigate. A positive association like this makes the crate a rewarding place to be, speeding up the acceptance process.

Start With Short Periods

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Patience prevents negative associations and builds trust. Initial short exposures build tolerance without overwhelming your pet. Begin with brief sessions, allowing your dog to enter and exit the crate freely. Stay nearby, offering praise and treats for calm behavior.

Introduce A Command

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Make use of specific words such as “crate” or “bed” when your dog enters. You can pair it with treats and praise to reinforce the behavior. A consistent command helps your dog understand what’s expected, making crate time a predictable part of their routine.

Feed Meals in the Crate

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Mealtime crating naturally increases duration and comfort. This technique creates a strong positive association, linking the crate with one of their favorite activities. Hence, serve your dog’s regular meals inside or near the crate, starting close to the entrance.

Extend Crating Duration

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When at home, extend the amount of time your pooch spends in the crate. Work your way up to greater durations by starting with a few minutes. This will help your dog become more comfortable and confident throughout longer stays, readying them for everyday crate use.

Close the Door

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Need your dog to become accustomed to being confined without feeling stuck? Here’s the trick. Once your dog is comfortable entering, start closing the door for short periods. Begin with just a few seconds and extend the time, as days go by.

Crating at Night

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A sense of proximity during sleep helps your dog feel secure and prevents feelings of isolation. It’s considered suitable to move the crate to your bedroom for nighttime use. Begin by situating the crate near your bed, slowly moving it to the desired location over time.

Practice Short Absences

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When your dog is crated, take a little break from the room—no more than a minute or two! Re-enter composedly; do not greet with enthusiasm. This prepares them for extended absences by reassuring them that spending time alone is okay, reducing separation anxiety.

Provide Engaging Toys

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Trying to keep your high-energy dog occupied? Offer puzzle toys or safe chews in the crate. Rotate toys to maintain interest. Mental stimulation prevents boredom during longer stays, making this phase an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Ignore Whining

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Once needs are met, avoid responding to whining or barking in the crate. Wait for a moment of quiet before letting them out. It’s necessary to teach your dog that quiet behavior, not noise, gets attention, promoting peaceful crating.

Use for Travel and Vet Visits

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Incorporate the crate into fun car rides and vet trips.  This is likely to help your dog associate the crate with adventures and safety in new environments. Also, remember to place familiar bedding and toys inside, for comfort.

Maintain Consistency

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Consistency in your crating routine is sure to help your dog understand what to expect. In turn, this will help reduce stress and make the crate a normal, accepted part of their daily life. Therefore, you should make it a part of their regular schedules, such as quiet times or naps.

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