Crate Training FAQs What is a crate and what is it for? A crate, also called a kennel, is a cage which can be used for housetraining and keeping your puppy safe. There are two basic styles, wire and plastic. When used correctly the crate becomes a safe haven for your pup, where they are comfortable and away from harm. Confining a puppy in this way utilizes the natural instinct for cleanliness to speed up the housetraining process - a dog will not soil it's sleeping place if it can avoid it. Some crates are collapsable and easy to take with you on trips, and can be a comfortable, familiar area to your dog when he's in an otherwise strange place.
What kind of crate should I get? Choose a crate that is large enough to comfortably fit your dog at his/her adult size with an adjustable panel that can be moved within the crate, so it can "grow" with your pup. The pup should only have enough room to stand, lay down and turn around in.
For further information on types of crates, go to:
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/dog-crate/page1.aspx How do I get my puppy to like his/her crate? Make the crate a positive place. Use toys, games and treats to create a good association for your puppy. Use the crate for short periods of time when you are home, and leave it in a high traffic area of the home so puppy doesn't feel isolated. Never use the crate for punishment.
When do I use the crate? Use the crate anytime that you are unable to give your puppy your full attention, such as overnight, while you are out running errands, or even while you're making dinner, in the shower, or doing household chores. When he's crated you can be confident that your pup is safe and not soiling the house. Remember that the crate should be used as a houestraining tool, but does not replace the actual training process.
How long can I leave my puppy in the crate? It depends on his age and training. The general rule of thumb is that a puppy can hold it's bladder and bowels (while at rest) one hour for every month of life, plus one. For example, if your puppy is two months old (8 weeks) he should be able to "hold it" for three hours. You can extend the time as they age, though it's not recommended that you leave an adult in it's crate for over 8 hours without a potty break.
My puppy cries in his crate! What do I do? You should never attempt to soothe or reprimand a pup when it's crying in it's crate. Cries are a plea for attention and should be ignored. Once the pup learns that crying does not get them attention, the behavior will extinguish itself. The noteable exception to this rule is a puppy that has to potty. Be sure your puppy has a chance to potty before you crate him, and do not leave him in the crate longer than his bladder allows.
Crate safety: Leave only durable toys and bedding in the crate, and only after testing your puppy to see what his chewing habits are. Never leave a dog crated with a collar on, as it can become caught on the crate and could strangle the dog.
Authored by Julia (BoxerWB) and Amber (Bers)
