How to Easily Train Your Dog to Stay in Its Dog Crate

Keeping dogs in their cages is, contrary to popular belief, not a bad thing. What people need to understand is that a puppy pen is made for the pet to have its own safe place. Any animal needs to have a place where they can sleep, play, recover if there is the case, eat, and relax. The main purpose why your pet should have a dog crate is for your pet's benefit, for a comfortable environment where he can stay unsupervised. Of course, your pet’s cage must be adapted to the breed and its specific needs. 

The Right Puppy Pen Makes the Difference

There is no such thing as a puppy pen that suits all breeds. Based on the weight and height of your pet and its particular needs, the model will differ. It is crucial to choose a model that will fit your pet. He needs to have a comfortable space, big enough to place bedding, bowls for water and food, plus toys and other accessories. It is also very important to place the cage in an area that is quieter. This way your pet has all the comfort he needs, away from all the daily noise. 

A Dog Crate Is Not a Punishment

Animals, just like kids, do lots of things daily and sometimes some of them turn into accidents. It is important not use the dog crate (https://www.petshopdirect.com.au/shop/category/dog-crates-kennels-puppy-pens) as a form of punishment. If you do it your pet will never sit inside it because it will see it as you sending him there because he did something wrong. It is very important to let your pet get used to it as a place where he enjoys sitting. There are moments when your pet will have to stay inside, and he will not want to.

A puppy pen is designed with the sole purpose of offering pets a space for themselves. That is why you need to make sure that he gets used to it. You cannot expect your pet to stay inside all day long or to accept it from the start. No, you have to make him get used to it by letting him inside it daily for a small amount of time. Each day, increase that time and you will see how easily your pet will get used to it. Do not try to force things.

Another important thing to remember is that not all dogs are the same and they do not get to learn the same way. You can search for tips on the internet about how to make your pet get used to its cage and use those tips. Do not lose hope (https://www.simonlawton.com/dont-lose-hope/) if you see that your pet does not want to use its dog crate from the start. Some of them learn faster, for others it may take a while; eventually, they will get there. You just have to be patient and wait for it to happen. 

Your Pet Needs to Feel Safe and Comfortable

Once your pet starts to see that he has a nice, comfy place where he can enjoy his time, he will choose to enter it more often. You will see. Of course, it matters what type of puppy pen you buy. There are several models, that is for sure. Some are more expensive, others cheaper, so take a moment to see the advantages and disadvantages of each model. Do you intend to buy one for the age of your pet, the one at the moment? Or you want to take one that your pet will use also as an adult?

If you want one for now, then you can choose one cheaper because you will change it after a while. You will not want to invest in a dog crate that will not be used for a long time. If you intend to get one that will be used until your pet becomes an adult (https://www.oreateai.com/blog/understanding-when-your-dog-becomes-an-adult/2c2bd61bd18d0085d70b6d0d3281f480), then choose one of better quality. At this point, it is crucial to choose one that will be appropriate for your pet when it is an adult. First, think about the maximum height your breed will reach.

Secondly, think about the space your breed will need. You cannot buy a puppy pen and expect to use it for a long time. Dogs grow pretty fast and before you know it you need to buy another. That is why you should consider the amount of space your pet will need. Remember that it is crucial that your pet has enough room to stretch. You will have to place their food and water bowls, toys, so there should be plenty of room for all that. Too big in this situation is better than too small, believe it. 

Set Up the Cage and Start the Training

Once you bought the proper dog crate and set it up, be sure to place things that you know will attract your pet inside it. Be sure to always leave the cage’s door open and place different treats and toys to attract your pet. Animals are pretty curious in general so your pet might feel the need to see what is inside. Even if he does not seem interested and will not enter immediately, eventually he will. Try cheering up to let him know it is ok to go there and wait to see what happens. 

The more attractive you make the puppy pen, the more chances your pet will be curious about it. Once you see your pet entering it, keep on offering him treats to see that he did something good. This way he will want to stay there. Also, place treats there without your pet seeing you, so that he knows that there is a place where he finds goodies. Usually, this method, where pets are rewarded, works perfectly for teaching your pet to stay in its cage. Even if you do not succeed from the start, be patient as it will happen.