The many benefits of crate training a puppy becomes obvious with each day of use. Although many people share the secret of this wonderful product, others shy away from its use. Understanding crates -from the pet’s point of view- illustrates why this device is so wonderful.

Any wild canid will secure a small, snugly fitting space to call its own. This space represents security to the pet. In its den it cannot be attacked or bothered, so it is able to fully relax. This instinctive desire for a secure den is the basis of the psychology behind using a crate as a training aid. Once the pet owner has overcome his/her prejudice against “caging” a pet and accepted the sound reasoning behind crated training, he/she and their pet can begin to enjoy the benefits of the marvelous crate.

To accustom your dog to its new crate, prop open the door and allow the pet to explore the confines of the crate. Placing food or a favorite object inside will encourage it to step in. When the pet is comfortable, close the door and deep it confined for five or 10 min. When you let the dog out do it unceremoniously. Releasing the pet should not be a major production.

Each time you put the pet in the crate, increase the length of time it is confined. Eventually the dog can be confined for up to four hours at a time. If the crate also serves as the dog’s bed, it can be left created throughout the night. Don’t overuse the crate, though. Both you and your bet should think of it as a safe haven, not as a prison. Housetraining is easier with the help of a crate. Until the dog is dependably housetrained, it should not be given the opportunity to make a mistake. A healthy dog will not soil its den –the place where it sleeps. If the crate is the right size for your dog- allowing just enough room to stand up and turn around- it will not soil in its crate. Anytime you cannot keep a close watch on the puppy, place it in its crate. With the assistance of a crate, housetraining can be painless for you and your pet.

If your pet becomes ill or needs surgery, confinement in a crate will assure it the extra rest it needs during the recovery period. The crate can serve as a hospital bed too. In dozens of ways, the addition of a crate means better care for you pet. It allows for a consistency in training. It helps the pet feel secure. It makes travel safer and more comfortable. Once you have experienced the benefits of crate training your dog, you’ll wonder how you every lived without one.