Thursday, October 14, 2010

The Truth About Crate Training Dogs

By Geraldine Dimarco

What exactly is crate training dogs? It sounds like something you do to a bad doggie for doing a no-no on the living room carpet. But its not. Crate training is actually based on the principle of the dogs' innate need for security.

It was said that dogs shared the same ancestors as wolves. While I cannot be absolutely sure on the validity of that tidbit, it is a definite fact that dogs were once animals that lived in the wild. Their earlier canine forefathers utilized dark and secured lairs as their dens. This was there protection from all the dangers that were out in the open space. It is on this principle that crate training is based on.

Many who use crate training can attest to its stress relieving effects for the canine. This also helps in house training the dogs by keeping them in check within a limited area. This will protect the animals from harming themselves, other people and things around the house. Going to the vet or travelling for long distances will not anymore be a problem with a crate trained dog safely tucked in his enclosed space.

While it may be a great help to many, crate training are not suitable for every pet. There are some dogs that have been abused and cannot be put in a crate without becomming extremely upset. Other animals who are much more of a challenge to train, panic when the doors close in and break the box they're in. Sometimes, well-meaning owners just cannot stand the thought of live animals inside a coffin like enclosure and reject the idea altogether

Crate training dogs depends largely on how the dog owner feels about the matter at hand. If a dog in a box is distressing to you then don't push through with this. However, if you feel that you and your dog will be better off having some space and disciple that crate training can give you, then continue reading this article for helpful tips on the best way to go about doing this.

You need to put the crate in a room where there will be activities and people. Make sure the enclosure you've chosen is a good size and put some of his favorite treats and toys inside it. When you guide your dog in, do not close the door just yet. For a few days just pet him and talk to him reassuringly through the crate. Begin feeding him while he is inside. If you feel he is already quite accustomed to the space, close the door for a few minutes while you are in the room. If the dog reacts violently or cries, wait for him to stop before letting him out. It is a new and often frightening experience for the pet so be patient and do not rush him with this.

Remember, more than anything, this should be a place that the dogs go to de-stress and calm themselves from a busy household. Never use this as punishment for whatever mistakes he might have done. When he is comfortable alone in the crate already, leave the house for short intervals and assess his response to the new arrangement. If there is no big incident, then you can pat yourself on the back for a job successfully accomplished. You are now an owner of well deserved free time and a crate trained dog.

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