Crate training tips

Considering crate training for your puppy or dog? While many people view dog crates as cages with cruel intentions, it’s actually been proven that dogs love a calm, safe place where they can rest and be by themselves. When introduced properly, crate training is an excellent way to give your dog a comfortable space of their own and help them learn new behaviours in the process. We’ve uncovered all the benefits and tips you need to know on when and how to use crate training as a tool and resource. Keep reading to learn more about crate training.

Why crate train?

Crate training is an important process in your dog’s life. Not only is it really helpful in potty training, but it’s also a great way to provide them with a secure space where they can retreat to in order to feel safe. So if you have a dog or new puppy in your life, take a look at all the ways crate training can be a useful tool in raising your new family member:

• Security: In the wild, dogs are naturally denning animals, which means they instinctively seek out small spaces to create a den-like feel. Offering your dog a crate to use at any age actually appeals to their innate behaviours and desires.
• Self-confidence: Think of how proud a toddler is when they learn how to use the ‘big potty’…the same is true for dogs! Through crate training, you set your pup up for success by helping them learn to reduce their wee and poop accidents.
• Self-reliance: As much as we wish we could spend every waking hour with our furry friends, the fact remains that sometimes we have to leave them at the house alone. When you crate train your dog, you give them a stronger sense of confidence to be ok by themselves when you have to be away from them for a while.
• Privacy: A dog crate can serve as a very useful time-out device for overtired puppies who need a break. It’s also a great place for your adult or senior dog to escape to when they want to be alone.
• Practicality: Being comfortable with a crate is important for dogs as they will be exposed to one eventually. Whether at the vet, the groomer or travelling in a car, crates are often used in other places to keep your dog safe and secure. So best to get them comfortable with a crate at home first.

Make crate training an enjoyable experience

A dog crate is meant to be a positive environment for your dog to see as an enjoyable place to be. The best way to ensure they have this association is to create that positive feeling from the moment of introduction to the crate. Here are some ways you can make crate training a truly enjoyable experience for everyone.

Choose the right crate

Finding the best dog crate is key to the success of your dog learning to love it. Depending on what dog breed you have, you want to make sure the crate fits your dog’s size and ability to turn around while in it. Other features your dog crate should have are durability, comfortability and transportability. The Fido Nook dog crate is a wonderful option as it provides all of these features while also doubling as a sleek piece of furniture in your home.

Create a positive association

One of the fastest ways to a dog’s heart is through their stomachs. So in order to encourage a positive association with the dog crate, use food and dog treats as tools. You can even move their dog bowls closer to the crate so they see the positive connection of eating and crate naps so close together!

Create a comfy spot

Some dogs prefer laying on hard surfaces and might be quite content just napping on the bottom crate tray. However, most dogs (and their owners!) prefer a more cosy spot to sneak away to. Try a comfortable plush dog bed that fits inside the crate so they can have more padding to snooze on. Or, just lay down a few cosy dog blankets so your dog can create the nap nest they desire. 

Play crate games

It’s completely normal for dogs and puppies alike to be uncertain of a crate at first. How would you feel about seeing something so foreign and new for the first time? One of the best ways you can make crate training a less scary experience is by making it fun – and what is more fun than playtime? Get on the floor and use different dog toys to throw in and out of the crate to encourage a fun and playful game that makes your dog more comfortable with the new space.

Have patience

Any dog can learn new tricks and that goes for crate training, too. But only if you have patience and take it slowly. Like anything new, if you rush the process it is unlikely to stick, which can lead to frustration for you both. So take your time and allow your dog to warm up to the crate in their own time. Before you know it, they will be sneaking away to it all on their own!

Omlet and crate training

At Omlet, we believe having a dog is more than just owning a pet, it’s a relationship that is to be fostered. So we design our products to cultivate that connection so you two can spend more time together building those bonds. We believe crate training is an invaluable tool and while we didn’t invent the dog crate, we did perfect it. The Omlet Classic Dog Crate is engineered with durable welded steel and two door options for easy placement and openings. Use it by itself or place it inside the Fido Nook, for a more sleek and modern design that complements your interior. Whichever option you choose, Omlet can help make crate training your dog an easy and enjoyable experience.

This entry was posted in Dogs

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