While crates can be used to manage behaviour, they should never be used for punishment. If used incorrectly, dogs can end up feeling trapped and frustrated, which will result in undesirable behavior. Patience is key when kennel training so take things slow: each step may take a few days or weeks before your pup gets comfortable with the crate.
First, introduce your dog to the crate.
Place the crate in an area where your family spends lots of time. Take the door off or prop it open to allow your dog to explore the crate. Encourage your dog to enter the crate with food or toys. This may take a few days for them to get comfortable, so patience is key.
Second, feed your dog meals in the crate.
Place the food dish all the way at the back of the crate. If your dog is hesitant, only put the dish in as far as they want to go and slowly move the bowl deeper into the crate every feeding.
Third, practice!
Once your dog is standing comfortably in the crate you can close the door while they eat. Open the crate as soon as they finish their meal, then slowly increase the time before you let them out.
Fourth, practice with longer crating periods.
Call your dog over to the crate and give them a treat. After your dog enters the crate, give them a treat and close the door. Sit quietly near the crate and then go into another room for a few minutes before you return and let them out. Slowly increase the time you leave them crated- this may take several weeks.
Fifth, crate your dog when you leave.
After your dog is able to spend 30 min in the crate, you can begin leaving them crated for short periods when you leave. Put your dog into the crate using your command and give them a treat. When you return home, keep arrivals low key to avoid increasing their anxiety over when you will return.
Sixth, crate your dog at night.
At first, keep the crate in your hallway or nearby, especially for puppies who will need to be let outside during the night. Once your dog is sleeping comfortably through the night, you can begin to move the crate into a more desired location.
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For more information, visit https://be.chewy.com or contact the Western college of Veterinary Medicine’s Northern Engagement and Community Outreach team at 1-306-230-0226 or email us at wcvm.neco@usask.ca