Crate training puppies can be a great aid for pets and their owners. When crate training a puppy, also known as kennel training, the dog should be able to consider this as his own personal den. When puppy crate training, your pet should be crated for short periods of time at first, then gradually increased.

There are many types of puppy crates, so you might have to do some shopping around to find the right one for your breed.

There are many advantages to crate training. It is helpful for housebreaking a puppy, teaches good habits such as chewing only on their toys, keeps your pet away from harmful household objects, and helps with separation anxiety. A crate is the perfect place to keep puppy confined for short periods of time such as when having visitors to stop puppy biting or licking. Crates are easily mobile, making it easy to travel with your puppy.

Allow the puppy to slowly become accustomed to the crate. Put some treats in and around the kennel, and praise him if he ventures inside it. If your dog has a favourite bed or blanket, put it inside the crate. This will identify the crate as his space and will make adjustment easier. Try feeding your puppy inside the crate with the door open.

You can also use toys to entice a reluctant puppy inside the enclosure. Close a favourite toy inside the crate, allowing him to see it, and watch how fast he tries to get in after it. Try leaving the door open with a toy visible to get him to step inside. Once he is comfortable going into the crate, begin closing the door for short periods of time. Feed him treats through the mesh, and only leave him in for a few seconds at first. As he becomes more comfortable, you can lengthen the duration of his confinement. Ideally the first really long stretch should be in your bedroom overnight.

Once your puppy is comfortable with his new kennel and will willingly step inside, attach a cue word to this process. This word will let him know that it is time to go into the crate. Practice this by rewarding him with treats when he obeys your command.

Never place a puppy in a crate with his training collar on. The collar could get caught on the crate and choke him. Do not expect your puppy to remain in his enclosure for long periods of time without a potty break. If he has an accident, do not punish him for your mistake. Except for overnight, he should not be confined for long periods of time in the crate.

One thing you must be careful of when crate training puppies is to make sure you don’t place your puppy in the crate only when you are leaving home, otherwise he will become reluctant to go in it. Make him feel comfortable with the crate and it will become a valuable part of your training and relationship.