Crate/cage training Vicky Collins
Use of the crate
The first thought most people have of cages is that they are a ‘prison’ for the dog..The human perspective is generally a problem and its better to refer to this as a ‘crate’
Every dog or puppy can learn to rest calmly alone in a crate.
To the dog they become indoor kennels:
· Den…..choose to shelter…space to sleep..safe haven from the household activities
· Useful in Toilet training… when puppy is reliable which can take up to 2 to 3 years the cage helps as they like to keep their beds clean
· Recommended to treat Separation anxiety giving a restricted safe area to be contained whilst owner out
· Travelling safety in the car and also providing an indoor kennel to allow visiting a ‘non dog friendly environment.Safe visits to the veterinary surgery, and acceptance of the restrictions sometimes necessary on medical grounds
· Helps avoid chewing in the house and damage as you always know where the pup is.
· Persistent regular training is needed ideal time to start this is over a weekend or on a holiday from work .when the dog can get your full attention and praise for good behaviour… basically dogs want to please !
Introduction Method
· Careful sensitive introduction to the puppy is imperative if the dog is to take to the method ,the earlier the better .
· Do Not Give Attention to noise from the dog ,the worst thing to do would be to let the pup out whilst making a noise thus learning noise brings attention ,and persistent noise eventually brings freedom .Emphasis must be that making a noise in the crate is pointless
· The first day…….
· Throw a titbit into the cage and allow the puppy/dog to retrieve it and come in and out unrestricted. .do this multiple times eventually the pup/dog will get in to wait for the treat
· At this point close the door
· Stay right by the cage .Do not move away from the side
· Treat any barking or bad behaviour by banging the cage or dropping a book
· Throw food in as the dog can become suspicious so the feeding needs re-enforcing
· Eventually the puppy will lie down
· Ignore the pup in the cage but start to move about the room ,do not leave the room at this stage
· When the puppy is quiet you can let in out. do this several times in the day
· At night place cage in the bedroom, put puppy in close the door and prepare to sleep any barking or whining bang cage as before all should be well and everyone should sleep.
· Generally speaking the maximum time spent in the cage in the day should not exceed 5 hours[longer overnight]
Eventually you should be able to put the dog in the cage and leave it in a room alone staying within the house ,after a few days of the pup accepting this and being quiet you can leave the house for gradually increasing times .
Regular use of the crate is ok and after 2 years the dog should be past the bad behaviour in the house/chewing..