Why a puppy crate is great!

We all know the feeling of being overwhelmed and needing some alone time. This need for a safe space is not just limited to people though. Your dog can benefit massively from having space to call its own and can also help alleviate or eliminate certain issues. This safe space for your dog in their crate. 

 What is crate training and why should you be using it?

Crate training is the process of teaching a pet to accept a dog crate or cage as a familiar and safe location. This safe location can serve as a beacon and offers your pet a place to have some me time. Many dogs instinctively seek small spaces to create protective shelters for themselves and crating is the perfect option for such cases. From puppy to senior any dog and owner can benefit from bringing crate training into their daily routine. A few common benefits of crate training are:

1. Helps with house training

Crates are an excellent tool for house training. Dogs have a bond with their bed and will avoid mixing the bedroom and bathroom when possible. Therefore, an appropriately sized crate is handy to assist you in teaching your dog bladder and bowel control. 

2. It gives your dog a place of its own to go and get some peace and quiet 

The home environment can get crazy sometimes and dogs can often suffer the most. Between festive fireworks and parties, dogs’ senses can easily be overstimulated resulting in anxiety and fear. Giving your pooch a place to calm down and feel safe in these times, helps ease them into a safe and calm state where they can relax and wait for the chaos to blow over. 

3. Anxiety and the importance of alone time 

It is no surprise to anyone that dogs like to be included in the family environment and activities. Although we all love spending time snuggling with our pup, having alone time helps your dog become more independent and saves you from future separation anxiety and behavioural problems.

A set schedule between crate and family or us time helps bring balance to your relationship.

Separation anxiety is often the reason why relationships between dogs and humans are strained. If your dog exhibits any of these anxiety-related behaviours, you might greatly benefit from crate training  

• Panting and pacing (even when it's not hot)
• Shivering
• Running away and/or cowering in the corner of a house
• Digging
• Escaping the yard
• Destroying furniture
• Self-harm, including excessive licking or chewing

Psst. If separation anxiety caught your attention, check out our helpful blog dedicated to this topic here.

How To Crate Train Your Dog

• Choose the right crate

From size to materials, choosing a crate that will be cosy and not confined for your dog is the first step in a successfully trained pup. Make sure to check the safety features and potential hazards when shopping.

• Make it comfy

With the purpose of a crate being comfortable, having a soft and plush bed is a great place to start. Toys and other creature comforts also promote repeat use and will have your puppy napping in their crate in no time. We might be biased, but the Petite French and Co. car and travel bed system makes a great crate bed, and it’s easy to carry with you. :P

• Reward 

Same as with all training treats and rewards help dogs remember and associate an activity with a reward. Giving your dog a treat while they are in their crate will help create a positive association with their crate.

 Adding the crate to your play routine helps strengthen this association too. It could be as simple as throwing a ball in the crate when you’re playing fetch or hiding treats in their bed, making a crate a fun and comforting place.

• Time your training

Long stretches of crate time can cause your puppy to feel uncomfortable, especially when it comes to bathroom time. Giving enough time to do their business, play and spend time with you helps promote the balance we pet owners crave.

 So, now that you’ve discovered just how ‘crate’ it can be to give your doggo a dedicated space of their own, we hope your training goes swell! And remember to tag us on your dog training success pics! ◖°ᴥ°◗ We love a good milestone.