|
1. Choosing the correct crate/kennel size is very important. Your dog should have just enough room to stand up, turn around and curl up.
2. Select a permanent location in your home with enough space for the kennel and is in a room full of activity so your dog can enjoy his own "special" place while still being part of the family. Also, place an old towel or blanket with your scent on it inside for bedding. This will help your dog become comfortable with his new surroundings.
3. Remove any collars, tags, and leads from your dog before placing him in his portable crate or kennel to prevent possible entanglement.
4. Start by keeping his crate/kennel door open. Let the puppy get comfortable with going in and out on his own. Next, make him stay in it for a few minutes by restraining him at the door with your hand. Gradually increase the time. Once he is comfortable being inside the crate, restrain him by closing the door. Stay in sight and always praise your dog and reward him.
5. Training may take only a few hours to days depending on your dog's breed and temperament. Once he feels secure in the kennel with the door closed, the pup will eventually sit quietly and sleep in his "new" home.
6. NEVER punish your dog by forcing him into his crate/kennel or reprimanding him while he is in it. This will undermine your dog's sense of security in his crate/kennel.
7. Your dog's crate/ kennel provides several key benefits: it creates a "special" place for your dog, thus providing needed security and stress relief. This leads to more effective behavioral training and a happier pup. It is also a comfortable and safe environment for your pet while traveling - either long distances or quick trips to the vet. However, to enjoy these benefits it is essential that the kennel be NOT used as a form of punishment or as a long-term pet sitter. While traveling as passengers in a car or plane, a portable kennel is essential for your pets safely. Never leave your pet unattended in a car.
CRATE TRAINING TIPS:
During the first few days of training, place the crate in your bedroom at night to help your pet adjust to his new environment and to alleviate stress.
Fill the hollow white sterilized bones with peanut butter, cheese or a little meat. These treats are Healthy treats and two a day will keep your puppy occupied for hours!
Place an old towel or blanket with your scent on it inside for bedding. Do not use a dog pad or bed until your puppy has outgrown accidents and chewing.
A kennel is the quickest and easiest way to "housebreak" your dog because dogs will not "go" in the Area where they eat and sleep. Potty training begins at 12 weeks of age and takes about 4 weeks. If Your dog has an accident in his kennel, in most cases this is because the kennel is either too large or your dog was left in the kennel too long.
Our number one concern is your pet's well being. If your pet has never been kept in a portable kennel or an enclosure, specific training is necessary for your pet's safety. Any dog not Proprerly trained to be restricted to a kennel or crate may attempt to escape from their portable kennel enclosure. This can cause serious injury to your dog.
THINGS YOU MUST REMEMBER:
A. Always take your pet outside to potty BEFORE placing him in the kennel.
B. Leaving a pet unattended and confined for any amount of time may cause anxiety in your pet and lead him to try to escape by chewing or forcing his way out. This can lead to serious injuries or even death - proper training and introduction to the kennel is critical.
C. Always keep 2-3 of your dog's favorite chew toys in his kennel. Chew toys keep him interested in chewing on appropriate objects and discourage barking by keeping him occupied.
D. Do not leave your pet in his crate/kennel all day; like babies, puppies have to "potty" about every 2-4 hours. At best, a puppy can "hold it" about 1 hour longer than his age in months. For example, if your puppy is 3 months old, do not leave him in his kennel for more than 4 hours at any given time. Take him outside regularly and praise him when he potty's.
|