Crate training a puppy?

[Jamie_Dog_Trainer]

I personally do not care for "working up" to time in the crate. Its a long process and does not show the dog the routine of the crate. I would rather it be cut and dry, the puppy learns right away what the crate is about and how its used.

I also do not use treats in the crate until after the dog learns to be quiet in the crate. After puppy is ok with the crate training I use kong toys stuffed with kibble or cream cheese, ect. Also steralized beef bones stuffed are good too.

 

[NewHopePoultry]

The crate is in our bedroom.
We got one of of these huge ones that you can block off and make smaller, since we know she is going to be a big dog.
She throws a huge fit when she goes into the kennel, she whines, crys and sounds like we are killing her, we actually got the cops called on us.

 

[warcard]

Sounds like you have a budding actress.

Don't give up on the crate, it is a wonderful tool for you and will eventually be a comfort to the dog. Just let your neighbors know what you are doing so they don't call the cops anymore

. They will appreciate a crate-trained dog later when she isn't barking at everything she sees out your window.

 

[Backyard Farm]

Warcard

good crate training info... I was going to see what I could ad.. NOTHING!!

I've always found that after awhile the crate becomes their private, safe place.

One thing that really reduces the "stress" of crate training, trip to a vet, staying alone, etc etc

is "comfort zone with DAP".... sounds like crazy stuff but it really works. I've been using it over about 8 yrs. It used to be hard to find but now petco, petsmart, etc carry it or you can even get it on ebay.

 

[scarter]

I didn't see where anyone had suggested this but our vet said to feed our puppy only in the crate. We had to work her up to it and would keep the bowl right outside the kennel. Then we put it right inside the kennel and eventually moved it further and further back through the weeks until she had to have her whole body in. I'd keep her on her leash so she had to stay right there and eat and no talking or playing to her. I'd say a few times, "eat" and that is until she finished. Then I'd love on her and tell her what a good girl. Now she is totally fine with her kennel and we feed her in the kitchen cause it's convenient.

Also, don't put your best sheet/blanket/quilt over the kennel. We came back from church one day (1.5 hours) to a shredded sheet that fit a nice sheet set we owned.

I'd say what we've learned is consistency and routines.

 

[pipermark]

Whenever I have chosen to get a new dog I bring it to the vet immediately, and I board it there for 3 days. This serves 2 purposes.

1. If the dog has any problems they will probably surfice durring that time, and I have not bonded with it , so I can make practical rather than emotional decisions.

2. The pup is pretty much house broken. I do put it in a crate at home, but since it has just spent 3 days , most of the whining and stuff is gone. I will gradually let them out of the crate when I am home to see if the training has taken. I usually crate them at night for several months , except my last pups (who are still with me and about 7 years old now), I had a doggy door so they could let themselves out into the back at night.