Dog crate training. What is It?

A crate acts as a shelter, den or safety net for your dog. In times when your dog is ill, feels scared or simply wants to get away from it all, A crate is a safe haven for him. We all need that place of security as we all need in stressful times in our lives.

Should I crate train my dog and why?

Yes, yes, yes. There is absolutely no doubt about it. If you don't do this, you are depriving your dog of a sense of belonging. A dog need to know that there's a "place" he can turn to when the need arises. Dogs have a natural instinct for seeking shelter when it feels threatened. Dogs tend to seek shelter under a chair, table or bed. Offering your dog this safety net is just the right thing to do from your part.

Is dog crate training safe?

If you are looking for a good house training tool, look no further. Dog crate training by far is just about the best house training tool you will find. It not only brings a sense of territory and ownership for your dog, but it also protects your furniture from a growing dog's "explorations" and accidents.

NOTE: Do not leave a collar on your dog's while inside his crate. It might cause strangulation.

Crate sores. What is it and what causes it?

Crate sores are caused by repeated friction of your dog's skin against something else like metal. When a dog is in a crate, he tends to curl up against something and this causes pressure to his body.

Because most crates are made from metal bars, it is common for dogs to get irritations on the skin from being inside the crate. That is also one of the reasons why it is so important for you not to leave him in the crate for long periods of time.

Another suggestion is to get or even make some nice doggy jackets for him which will relieve some of the pressure.

My dog barks at the crate. Is this normal?

When first introducing a crate, make sure that it is introduced in a positive and happy way. The first time your dog sees the crate, make sure it is arranged and "decorated" fully.

Make sure you put some of your dogs favorite toys in there. Make an immediate positive impression. Praise him when he goes into it. Do not close the crate the first time.

Every time you want him to go into the crate, put his favorite snack inside and gently lead him in. Make sure he sees you put it in. As he becomes more relaxed inside, you can start closing it for short periods of time. Lengthen the time as the training progresses.

Watch him while he is inside. If he shows signs of distress, make sure to open immediately. You do not want your dog to equate the crate to an unpleasant experience.

Eventually he will go in whenever he feels the need for a little private time.

Also make sure the crate is in a social environment. Somewhere where there is lots of movement. He still needs to feel like part of the family.

Is there a time limit to using the crate?

No there is not. We need to understand that crates are not just for the sole purpose of house training your dog. You could see the crate as your dog's home inside the home.

You need your personal space so allow him to have his too. Dogs sometimes also need to escape the busyness of everyday life, especially if there are small children around. They get tired too and also need a break at times.

Happy Dog Crate Training...