Crate training can improve life for you and your dog.
Though it might seem simple, training your dog to sleep comfortably in their crate opens doors to independence and true relaxation. Crate training helps massively with toilet training for puppies and can also reduce the risk of separation anxiety.
If you’re bringing a puppy home or rescuing a dog soon, here’s everything you should know about using the crate.
What is crate training?
Crate training is simply helping your dog get used to being confined. It’s not unkind or unfair on the dog when it’s introduced gradually, and it shouldn’t be used as a punishment either.
When they’re used correctly, dog crates make life more relaxing for dogs and their owners too. Your dog will have somewhere to sleep at night, rest during the day, and keep out of trouble when you’re not at home.
Here are just a few of the benefits:
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Provides a safe space
Dogs love to get cosy and make a nest. Helping them get comfortable in their crate means giving them their own private and secure space to retreat to whenever they feel tired, stressed, or simply need some downtime.
This helps boost their happiness and confidence, allowing them to truly relax and feel safe within your household.
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Helps with house training
When you get a new puppy, they don’t know the rules. House training is a time-consuming process, but using a crate certainly makes things easier and less exhausting for the whole household – especially at night.
Because dogs naturally avoid going to the toilet in their sleeping area, crates are instrumental in aiding house training. Seeing the crate as their bed encourages them to control their bladder, facilitating a faster process.
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Prevents destructive behaviour
Most dogs need to be left unsupervised at some point. Crate training means you’ll never need to leave your dog free roaming while you’re away from home. This prevents unwanted and dangerous behaviours from appearing!
From chewing the furniture to surfing the countertops, you can enjoy the peace of mind that your pup won’t be getting into mischief while you’re out. Crates ensure their safety and the preservation of your home!
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Assists with travel
Whether your pooch will be road-tripping or flying, being comfortable in a crate means they can simply relax on the journey. Many pets find travelling stressful, especially if they’ve never been shown how to cope with being in an enclosed space.
Crate-trained dogs are simply more comfortable on the move. Keeping a familiar crate in your car can boost safety and alleviate anxiety.
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Better behaviour
Finally, crate training can support your overall training efforts by clearly establishing boundaries and promoting calm behaviour.
Adult dogs should sleep for at least 12 hours every day. When they can choose to take downtime in their safe space, they’ll wake up in a better mood and will respond better to your training efforts. Whether it’s an agility class or a walk in the park, life is more enjoyable with a well-rested dog.
Overview
Throughout their whole life, your dog will be much happier, more fulfilled, and less stressed if they’re comfortable sleeping in a crate. It gives them opportunities to take quality downtime, keeps them feeling confident while travelling, and prepares them for crates at the vets too.
Training with patience and consistency is key to lasting success. Good luck!
