Ultimate Crate Training Guide: Crate Training Your Puppy
Preparing for successful crate training is essential for your puppy's comfort and happiness. Here's what you'll need and some expert tips to make the process enjoyable for both of you:
Nutritious Rewards
Gather your puppy's regular kibble and mix in some higher-value treats for extra motivation. We believe in making mealtime engaging by having puppies work for their food throughout the day, which strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion.
The Right Crate
Any crate size is suitable as long as your puppy can comfortably stand up and turn around. A cozy, safe space is vital for their sense of security.
Long-Lasting Chews
To help build crate time, providing long-lasting chews can keep your puppy content and occupied during their stay. We'll explain our top choices for these later.
We understand that crate training might not be love at first sight for your puppy. But with active training in short, positive lessons (under 2-3 minutes) scattered throughout the day, you'll make the crate a more appealing place for them.
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Introducing the Crate - Step by Step:
Step 1: Approach the crate with your puppy and toss a piece of food inside. If they're hesitant, start slow and drop treats near the crate, encouraging their curiosity.
Naming the Behaviour: As your puppy naturally goes inside, introduce a command like "kennel" or "crate" right at that moment, so they associate the action with the word.
Step 2: Gradually increase their time inside the crate while rewarding them with more treats for staying in. Use a release marker like "BREAK" to let them know they can come out.
Step 3: Close and open the crate door while your puppy stays inside for short intervals. Keep the treats flowing and use the release marker. This helps them associate the door closing with calmness, eliminating any anxiety.
Building Duration: Introduce a duration marker like "GOOD" while dropping treats. Gradually increase the time between treats, encouraging your puppy to relax and enjoy their crate time.
Remember, it's okay if your puppy isn't completely thrilled with the crate initially. Continue crate usage as usual, ensuring the positive experiences outweigh any initial reservations.
To extend crate time, introduce long-lasting chews and supervise your puppy to avoid any choking hazards. Our Kong Recipe, a mix of tuna, peanut butter, sardines, and coconut oil, is a hit with dogs!
Lastly, creating positive associations with the crate can be a playful adventure. The steps we've shared are just the beginning, laying a strong foundation for your puppy's comfort with crate living.
If you need any assistance or have questions along the way, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to support you and your pup on this crate-training journey!