Crate training can be an excellent pup-training method – especially for those of you who want to make sure your dog is safe and that he shows good behavior when left alone. However, it is also very important to keep in mind that crate training cannot simply “happen” overnight – same as with everything else involved in raising a puppy, it needs time, dedication and attention.
What are some of the most common mistakes people make with crate training? We have gathered 5 of them right below – so read on and find out more.
You don’t buy the adequate size
If you want crate training to really work with your puppy, you should first make sure it “fits” him. Same as humans, puppies need space to feel comfortable – and although a crate is restrictive by definition, it is still important it provides your pup with enough room to feel comfy. In general, to buy the right size crate, you should measure your dog in height and length – and then add some more on top of that.
You don’t take your dog’s personality into account
If you have a puppy who’s overly destructive, you should make sure to buy a crate that can resist its urges. Otherwise, you will end up with an “escaped” pup, plenty of destruction and a lot of frustration on both ends (yours and your furry friend’s). We suggest you always read reviews and inform yourself to make sure the crate you are buying is really suitable for your dog.
You only take price into consideration
You wouldn’t want to live in a cardboard home – so why would you want to confine your pup for hours in a crate that can actually harm him? Yes, it is perfectly understandable that price is a factor to consider when buying a crate – but it should NEVER be the only (or most important) aspect of the decision-making process.
You don’t take the adequate stance if your pup misbehaves
If your pup doesn’t like the crate and starts crying, the last thing you should do is yell at him. Although it may be negative attention, it can teach your pup that if he makes a lot of noise, you will eventually pay attention to him. Treat your pup as you would treat a baby, talk nicely to him, be very straightforward when he makes mistakes – but don’t yell. Likewise, praising the pup is more than welcomed when he is behaving himself.
You take the puppy out of the crate when he cries
Yes, it is more than likely that the puppy will cry, especially in the first days spent in the crate. However, it is extremely important that you don’t take him out – not for anything else than going potty. Yes, it is OK to take him to potty, but place him back in as soon as he is done. You don’t want him to learn the wrong lesson (that he will be left out if he barks and cries)!
