Crate Training... Your Pet's Home

Nicki Meyer, a nationally known authority on the subject of crate training, says that according to a recent survey, the majority of dog owners were initially opposed to crates but were later typically supportive and enthusiastic, "He loves his crate... I don't believe it." "I'd never raise another dog without a crate." "It saved my sanity." "It makes traveling with a dog a delight." "Thanks to the crate, our puppy is always a pleasure and never a problem." "It's the best way to housebreak a puppy."

The dog crate is a sanctuary for your pet. It is your pet's well protected home. "Not so much that it (your pet) cannot get out, but that humans cannot get in," according to a recent release from a major dog food manufacturer. The pet crate is comfortable to your puppy because, like his wild ancestors he instinctively seeks the safety and security of a 'den'." The fact that we may see the crate as a very limited space, or very confining, is only a human view. The dog finds a crate a secure haven, more secure than the confusing and sometimes frightening outside world.

The most important benefit that accrues to the pet owner who utilizes crate training is the control of the puppy when it is alone at home. When puppies are left alone and allowed to roam too large an area, they become anxious, lonely and bored. By using a pet crate, the owner creates the positive behavioral patterns which enable the relationship between the pet and his owner to develop and grow.

Consider, too, these additional benefits:

• The virtual elimination of "housetraining" problems and attendant "accidents" in the house.
• The savings in dollars in costs to repair or replace damaged household items.
• An assurance that the puppy will develop good habits.
• Eliminating the likelihood of having to give up a pet because of not being able to cope with its behavioral problems.

• Make sure your attitude toward using a dog crate is a positive one! Remember, that you are doing your puppy a real favor. "Crate training" will reduce fear, insecurity, and stress related probelems for your puppy.
• Use a Mid-West collapsible crate with an epoxy-coated floor pan large enough for an adult size dog to stretch out comfortably. A smaller space for the puppy can be created by sliding cardboard or a piece of masonite between the wires of the crate. When the puppy grows, the partition can be removed.
• Keep the crate in a semi-private spot in a "people" area (such as the kitchen or family room). This spot should be away from drafts and direct heat.
• Well before bedtime, place the pup in the crate and offer a treat. Close and lock the gate.
• Immediately establish a routine, using the crate for nap times and whenever the puppy must be left alone (3-4 hours). Take it directly from the crate to your chosen outside elimination spot, praise his performance, and go directly inside. The puppy will then be able to make the association. Your relationship with your pet will be enhanced if you keep its life structured.
• Treat any resistance to crate confinement in a "no nonsense" manner. Remember, you are not being cruel. At the first sign of any separation responses (such as barking or howling), intervene with a sharply raised voice. The idea is that the pup associates its behavior with the startling raised voice. Some pups will not respond to a raised voice, but most will respond to the sounds of a shaker can (a coffee can with a few coins), or a newspaper slapped sharply against a door.
• Usually the pup settles quietly in the crate after three to eight attempts at emotional responses. After the puppy is quite, keep it inside for about 10 minutes. Do not praise the pup immediately after releasing it. This can reinforce the desirability of leaving the crate.
• After an interval of 30-45 minutes, repeat the procedure. Extend the pup's quiet time to about 30 minutes. Then gradually extend your absent periods, and, in a short time, you can be gone for several hours.
• Provide soft washable bedding (such as a towel or bath mat) and one safe chew toy in the crate. Other than treats, do not put food or water inside the crate. Remove the collar and tags to prevent possible entanglement.

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