Crate Training
Thousands of years ago, before domestication dogs often slept in dens - shallow holes they dug in the ground hidden away in places where they felt safe from predators. These were small, dark places, just big enough to turn around in and to lie down comfortably.
Even after centuries of selective breeding and living in people's homes, dogs still retain many instincts from their wild forbearers . One of these instincts is the desire to have a den - a small, cosy place of their very own where they can feel safe and secure, a good example of this being a dog fearful of fireworks will seek out the security of the cupboard under the stairs or be found skulking under the bed .
As well as giving the dog a safe, cosy place to stay, crates can make toilet training much easier to accomplish. Puppies and dogs generally will not soil their sleeping and eating area. Used with a consistent schedule, a crate can be the best ally with house training, however of course accidents will happen. Never scold or punish the dog, instead clean the soiled area with a specialised odour remover, many ammonia-based cleaners will attract further soiling due to their similarity in smelling like urine.
Destructive chewing becomes easier to control, from a safety aspect of preventing foreign bodies becoming lodged in throats or causing intestinal blockages resulting in invasive surgery at best and fatalities at worst, electrocution due to cables being chewed or poisoning via various household items such as chocolate, houseplants or anti-freeze, not to mention the financial implications of veterinary treatment but also the need to replace skirting boards, doors, carpets and sofa‘s. However crating is not a “quick fix” in preventing destructive behaviour, veterinary and professional behavioural advice may be required to establish the possible cause taking age, breed and environment, into account before an accurate evaluation can be made and a suitable program of modification devised to modify the behaviour.
Crates offer safety when travelling. A dog in a crate is far less likely to be injured in an accident. A crate keeps the dog from bouncing around, getting on the drivers lap, blocking the rear view or even getting under the driver's feet! .
With the busy lifestyles many lead nowadays it can be also be challenging attempting to cook dinner at the same time as catching up with the ironing, with the temptation being to send the children and dog into the garden to play allowing completion of the tasks. Children and dogs should never be left unsupervised, regardless of breed, size, age,or previous impeccable behaviour. Placing the dog in a crate prevents the dog from being left alone with the children or becoming excited by their games whilst you are dealing with other things, also making the kitchen a safer environment without the worry of the dog being underfoot as dinner is removed from the oven.
Popping the dog into his crate before answering the door removes the possibility of escape and of an unwanted reaction towards the caller leading to potential legal issues for both dog and owner
As much as owners often feel that they require peace and quiet, so too does the dog from rowdy children, giving them their own quiet area with children being taught not to disturb the dog whilst he is crated. Older dogs in the household may also need a rest from a puppy who wants to constantly play .
Regardless of whether the dog has been carefully bred, with an impeccable pedigree or is of origin unknown, the result of an accidental mating, or a rescue dog. Unfortunately accidents, illness or hereditary defects may at some point throughout the dogs life require that the animal’s exercise be restricted. For instance cruciate rupture, where if recovery is to be successful great care must be taken post op that the dog does not run, jump, or stand on it’s back legs to look out of the window as the postman leaves. Peace of mind knowing the dog is safely crated when the owner is unable to monitor the dogs activity hopefully will prevent complications during recovery. Crate-trained dogs may also have an easier time if they need to stay in boarding kennels, taking along the dogs crate and placing it in the sleeping area offers security from the unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells around.
What type and size of crate should I buy ?.There are two main types of crate. Wire and a heavy duty plastic crates know as a sky or vari kennel, many of the sky kennels are airline approved.
Even after centuries of selective breeding and living in people's homes, dogs still retain many instincts from their wild forbearers . One of these instincts is the desire to have a den - a small, cosy place of their very own where they can feel safe and secure, a good example of this being a dog fearful of fireworks will seek out the security of the cupboard under the stairs or be found skulking under the bed .
As well as giving the dog a safe, cosy place to stay, crates can make toilet training much easier to accomplish. Puppies and dogs generally will not soil their sleeping and eating area. Used with a consistent schedule, a crate can be the best ally with house training, however of course accidents will happen. Never scold or punish the dog, instead clean the soiled area with a specialised odour remover, many ammonia-based cleaners will attract further soiling due to their similarity in smelling like urine.
Destructive chewing becomes easier to control, from a safety aspect of preventing foreign bodies becoming lodged in throats or causing intestinal blockages resulting in invasive surgery at best and fatalities at worst, electrocution due to cables being chewed or poisoning via various household items such as chocolate, houseplants or anti-freeze, not to mention the financial implications of veterinary treatment but also the need to replace skirting boards, doors, carpets and sofa‘s. However crating is not a “quick fix” in preventing destructive behaviour, veterinary and professional behavioural advice may be required to establish the possible cause taking age, breed and environment, into account before an accurate evaluation can be made and a suitable program of modification devised to modify the behaviour.
Crates offer safety when travelling. A dog in a crate is far less likely to be injured in an accident. A crate keeps the dog from bouncing around, getting on the drivers lap, blocking the rear view or even getting under the driver's feet! .
With the busy lifestyles many lead nowadays it can be also be challenging attempting to cook dinner at the same time as catching up with the ironing, with the temptation being to send the children and dog into the garden to play allowing completion of the tasks. Children and dogs should never be left unsupervised, regardless of breed, size, age,or previous impeccable behaviour. Placing the dog in a crate prevents the dog from being left alone with the children or becoming excited by their games whilst you are dealing with other things, also making the kitchen a safer environment without the worry of the dog being underfoot as dinner is removed from the oven.
Popping the dog into his crate before answering the door removes the possibility of escape and of an unwanted reaction towards the caller leading to potential legal issues for both dog and owner
As much as owners often feel that they require peace and quiet, so too does the dog from rowdy children, giving them their own quiet area with children being taught not to disturb the dog whilst he is crated. Older dogs in the household may also need a rest from a puppy who wants to constantly play .
Regardless of whether the dog has been carefully bred, with an impeccable pedigree or is of origin unknown, the result of an accidental mating, or a rescue dog. Unfortunately accidents, illness or hereditary defects may at some point throughout the dogs life require that the animal’s exercise be restricted. For instance cruciate rupture, where if recovery is to be successful great care must be taken post op that the dog does not run, jump, or stand on it’s back legs to look out of the window as the postman leaves. Peace of mind knowing the dog is safely crated when the owner is unable to monitor the dogs activity hopefully will prevent complications during recovery. Crate-trained dogs may also have an easier time if they need to stay in boarding kennels, taking along the dogs crate and placing it in the sleeping area offers security from the unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells around.
What type and size of crate should I buy ?.There are two main types of crate. Wire and a heavy duty plastic crates know as a sky or vari kennel, many of the sky kennels are airline approved.
Wire Crates
Inexpensive
Fold flat when not in use for easy storage
Removable tray for easy cleaning
Assembled and dissembled in seconds
Dividers can be purchased. Rather than the need to replace the crate with a larger one as the puppy grows, the size required for the adult breed can be purchased initially. If the crate is too large for the puppy, he may use one end to curl up and another end to soil. Crate dividers make the crate smaller, gradually expanding the space for the puppy as he grows.
The big disadvantage with this style of crate is that puppies or long slender nose breeds such as the whippet may be able to fit their nose between the wire possible in an attempt to chew their way out and possibly resulting in their teeth becoming hooked over the wire and unable to free themselves
Fold flat when not in use for easy storage
Removable tray for easy cleaning
Assembled and dissembled in seconds
Dividers can be purchased. Rather than the need to replace the crate with a larger one as the puppy grows, the size required for the adult breed can be purchased initially. If the crate is too large for the puppy, he may use one end to curl up and another end to soil. Crate dividers make the crate smaller, gradually expanding the space for the puppy as he grows.
The big disadvantage with this style of crate is that puppies or long slender nose breeds such as the whippet may be able to fit their nose between the wire possible in an attempt to chew their way out and possibly resulting in their teeth becoming hooked over the wire and unable to free themselves
Sky or Vari Kennels
More expensive.
Moulded plastic, unscrews in the middle enabling the top to be removed, can then be used as a conventional dog basket.
Require more space for storage when not in use
Without dismantling reaching in to clean may prove difficult as the door is relatively narrow.
Assembles and dissembled in minutes.
Due to their shape the inside measurement is smaller than the equivalent wire crate. The guides given for the size of kennel in respect of breed may be on the small side possibly requiring a larger size enabling the dog to stretch out with ease.
Apart from ventilation to both sides, back and a wire door the kennel is enclosed offering complete security for the dog, also preventing any draft and offering more insulation.
Less likely to be able to fit their muzzles between the wire.
Moulded plastic, unscrews in the middle enabling the top to be removed, can then be used as a conventional dog basket.
Require more space for storage when not in use
Without dismantling reaching in to clean may prove difficult as the door is relatively narrow.
Assembles and dissembled in minutes.
Due to their shape the inside measurement is smaller than the equivalent wire crate. The guides given for the size of kennel in respect of breed may be on the small side possibly requiring a larger size enabling the dog to stretch out with ease.
Apart from ventilation to both sides, back and a wire door the kennel is enclosed offering complete security for the dog, also preventing any draft and offering more insulation.
Less likely to be able to fit their muzzles between the wire.
The size of the crate depends on the size of the dog. The crate must be tall enough for the dog to stand up to his full height without having to duck his head, wide enough to allow the dog to lie on his side and stretch out and long enough for him to lie down stretched to his full body length without having to curl up.
What room should I put the crate in?
One of the main reasons for using a crate is to confine a dog without making the dog feel isolated or banished. As a result the crate should be placed in a corner, near a "people" area in the home. Making sure the area is free from cold draughts or direct heat. The dog should be able to have privacy, yet feel as though he has company when people are home but unable to give him their full attention. Time must be made for the dog to enjoy his freedom inside the home enabling him to be a true member of the family. If the dog is continually crated during evenings, weekends and family time serious thought must be given as the whether the needs of the dog are being met.
What types of toys should I put inside the crate?
Toys can help make the crate a more familiar area for the dog during crate training. Use safe toys only, nothing the dog or puppy can tear apart and choke on while alone. Rawhide chews and bones are not good for unsupervised dogs. Squeaky toys need to be monitored, because the squeakers can be removed and swallowed and may cause the puppy to choke. Strong rubber toys are now available, commonly known as boredom breakers which may be stuffed with paste requiring the dog to lick between the grooves to obtain the paste keeping him occupied.
How do I crate train?
A dog's crate should be a comfortable and secure place, with a clean dry cosy bed and a non tip stainless steal bowl filled with fresh clean drinking water . The first association with a crate must be a pleasant experience. Both puppies and adult dogs need to be gradually introduced . Most dogs eventually accept a crate and many dogs will really like their crate. For others, especially for some older dogs who have never been crated before, it will take some extra time and effort. Some will need to be supervised very carefully at first to prevent injury.
A new puppy should have a crate from day one in it's new home. Place the crate in a quiet corner of the living room, family room or whatever location is the most frequently used area in your home. Keep it away from draughts and air conditioning or heat vents.
Plan on spending some time to get the dog used to the crate. Leave the door open for the first few days... tie it open so it can't suddenly close and scare the dog. Place some favourite toys, chews and treats inside the crate, just inside the door at first and gradually move them further back. Simply let the dog go in and out on it's own. After the dog gets used to going in and out , encourage him to lie down and relax. After he seems comfortable and at ease with it, and while spending time in the room, try closing the door briefly. Sit near the crate and use food, treats or chews as encouragement if needed. Gradually increase the time... leaving him alone for 5 minutes at first, then for longer intervals.
Eventually, the dog will lay quietly and be content, whether the door is open or closed. The dog will soon think of it's crate as it's own special place, not as a cage or as a prison.
Should I put my dog in the crate when he's naughty?No. Never use the crate to punish the dog. The dog's home should be his secure place, it should not be associated with punishment, fear or anything negative
How long can my dog stay in the crate?
Regardless of age, breed, size or activity levels no dog should spend any longer than four hours in a crate, with the only exception being night time where the dog is given the chance to go outside to eliminate last thing at night and first thing in the morning.
If a dog is going to be expected on a regular basis to spend more than four hours home alone crated or other wise serious thought should be given as to whether the lifestyle allows for the level of commitment required in owning a dog.
If a dog is already present thought should be given to possibly returning home at lunch time or employing a dog walker, family member or neighbour to visit allowing the dog to eliminate, sufficient outdoor exercise and love and attention.
Is it safe to crate my dog with his lead on?
No. Never crate a dog with a loose fitting collar, ribbon, bow, bandana or lead attached . If any such item should catch on any part of the crate the dog could choke.
Some dogs remain perfectly calm and content while home alone for hours and never need to be confined. For those that are crate trained... Some can eventually be trusted to stay peacefully home alone, un-crated, as their training improves, exercise increases and as the dog gets into a routine or in the cases of behavioural issue such as separation anxiety once the issue is dealt with. Even if the idea is only to crate on a temporary basis the dog will never forget the cosy environment. Hopefully the dog will be a much loved member of the family for many years in which time circumstances can change greatly therefore knowing that the crate can be retrieved from the garden shed, dusted off and that the dog is happy to return to the crate in times of need will make the situation less stressful for all involved.
What room should I put the crate in?
One of the main reasons for using a crate is to confine a dog without making the dog feel isolated or banished. As a result the crate should be placed in a corner, near a "people" area in the home. Making sure the area is free from cold draughts or direct heat. The dog should be able to have privacy, yet feel as though he has company when people are home but unable to give him their full attention. Time must be made for the dog to enjoy his freedom inside the home enabling him to be a true member of the family. If the dog is continually crated during evenings, weekends and family time serious thought must be given as the whether the needs of the dog are being met.
What types of toys should I put inside the crate?
Toys can help make the crate a more familiar area for the dog during crate training. Use safe toys only, nothing the dog or puppy can tear apart and choke on while alone. Rawhide chews and bones are not good for unsupervised dogs. Squeaky toys need to be monitored, because the squeakers can be removed and swallowed and may cause the puppy to choke. Strong rubber toys are now available, commonly known as boredom breakers which may be stuffed with paste requiring the dog to lick between the grooves to obtain the paste keeping him occupied.
How do I crate train?
A dog's crate should be a comfortable and secure place, with a clean dry cosy bed and a non tip stainless steal bowl filled with fresh clean drinking water . The first association with a crate must be a pleasant experience. Both puppies and adult dogs need to be gradually introduced . Most dogs eventually accept a crate and many dogs will really like their crate. For others, especially for some older dogs who have never been crated before, it will take some extra time and effort. Some will need to be supervised very carefully at first to prevent injury.
A new puppy should have a crate from day one in it's new home. Place the crate in a quiet corner of the living room, family room or whatever location is the most frequently used area in your home. Keep it away from draughts and air conditioning or heat vents.
Plan on spending some time to get the dog used to the crate. Leave the door open for the first few days... tie it open so it can't suddenly close and scare the dog. Place some favourite toys, chews and treats inside the crate, just inside the door at first and gradually move them further back. Simply let the dog go in and out on it's own. After the dog gets used to going in and out , encourage him to lie down and relax. After he seems comfortable and at ease with it, and while spending time in the room, try closing the door briefly. Sit near the crate and use food, treats or chews as encouragement if needed. Gradually increase the time... leaving him alone for 5 minutes at first, then for longer intervals.
Eventually, the dog will lay quietly and be content, whether the door is open or closed. The dog will soon think of it's crate as it's own special place, not as a cage or as a prison.
Should I put my dog in the crate when he's naughty?No. Never use the crate to punish the dog. The dog's home should be his secure place, it should not be associated with punishment, fear or anything negative
How long can my dog stay in the crate?
Regardless of age, breed, size or activity levels no dog should spend any longer than four hours in a crate, with the only exception being night time where the dog is given the chance to go outside to eliminate last thing at night and first thing in the morning.
If a dog is going to be expected on a regular basis to spend more than four hours home alone crated or other wise serious thought should be given as to whether the lifestyle allows for the level of commitment required in owning a dog.
If a dog is already present thought should be given to possibly returning home at lunch time or employing a dog walker, family member or neighbour to visit allowing the dog to eliminate, sufficient outdoor exercise and love and attention.
Is it safe to crate my dog with his lead on?
No. Never crate a dog with a loose fitting collar, ribbon, bow, bandana or lead attached . If any such item should catch on any part of the crate the dog could choke.
Some dogs remain perfectly calm and content while home alone for hours and never need to be confined. For those that are crate trained... Some can eventually be trusted to stay peacefully home alone, un-crated, as their training improves, exercise increases and as the dog gets into a routine or in the cases of behavioural issue such as separation anxiety once the issue is dealt with. Even if the idea is only to crate on a temporary basis the dog will never forget the cosy environment. Hopefully the dog will be a much loved member of the family for many years in which time circumstances can change greatly therefore knowing that the crate can be retrieved from the garden shed, dusted off and that the dog is happy to return to the crate in times of need will make the situation less stressful for all involved.
