Jul 10, What Is Crate Training?

So, what exactly is crate training? As many people know, dogs are den animals by nature. If you already own a dog, have you noticed his favorite napping spots? Some dogs seek out cozy, enclosed spots, and they can be found resting under tables, chairs and beds, or nestled into pillows.

When Maggie and Toby are sleeping, they will seek out their own cozy places. They'll sometimes sleep on "their bed" in the guest room, but more often they find separate locations. For example, Toby will often sleep on his pillows on the floor, or on his favorite ottoman. He doesn't tend to sleep under furniture.

On the other hand, Maggie will sleep behind the couch, or in the corner of the living room.

Maggie's most interesting sleeping location, is in the corner of one bedroom, with only her head hidden under the bed. Who knows why she doesn't put her entire body under the bed....but that's her natural instinct on display!

A dog crate is a very useful tool, when you're training your puppy. One of the important keys of training is to remember that puppies don't want to soil their sleeping and living area, and will gradually learn to "hold it", until they eliminate outside.

This den substitute can also serve as a useful home in which to safely put your puppy when you're not able to supervise him. It will also provide your dog his own relaxing haven, where he can get away from everyone and sleep.

Another key point about crate training is the importance of your dog's positive association with his den. Because you want to take advantage of your dog's den instincts, he should never be punished or scolded while he's in his enclosure.

It's okay to put your puppy in there because his behavior is unacceptable, whether he's chewing a slipper, jumping on people, or generally getting into mischief.

When you're taking him away from being around the family and his "pack", that is his punishment. At the same time, by being placed in his carrier, he is learning and reinforcing his safe, positive feelings about being in there.

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