For many pet owners, the thought of crate spiritdog training review their dog is daunting. Will my dog be okay in a crate? What if they cry or bark all night? What if they have an accident?
Rest assured, crate training your dog can be a positive experience for both you and your furry friend. In fact, there are many benefits to crate training, including potty training, preventing destructive behaviors, and creating a safe space. Below we will discuss some of the key benefits of crate training your dog.
Potty Training Assistance
One of the most common reasons people crate train their dogs is for potty training assistance. Dogs naturally do not want to soil their sleeping area, so a crate can help teach them to “hold it” until they are taken outside.
If you are consistent with taking your dog out on a regular schedule, they will quickly learn that going potty outside is acceptable and that doing so inside the crate is not. Puppies especially benefit from this type of training as they typically need to go every few hours.
Prevents Destructive Behaviors indoors
Another common reason people opt for crate training is to prevent destructive behaviors indoors. Dogs are natural chewers and diggers, and without proper outlets for these behaviors, they can wreak havoc on your home.
Crate training provides dogs with a safe space to go when they need a break from stimulation or when you cannot supervise them directly. This can be especially beneficial for puppies who are still exploring everything with their mouths!
The key to success with this benefit is ensuring that your dog has plenty of toys and bones in their crate to keep them occupied when they are inside.
You should also make sure that the crate is not too big – otherwise, they may be tempted to use one end as a bathroom and the other as a bedroom!
A general rule of thumb is that your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably in their crate – anything larger than that is probably too big.
If you are unsure about what size crate to get for your dog, you can always consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist.
Crate training can also be used to prevent separation anxiety in dogs – but more on that later.
Creates a Safe Space for Your Dog (and You!) Last but not least, crate training can create a safe space for both your dog and you. We all know that accidents happen – whether it’s knocking over a glass of water or tearing up a pair of shoes.
If you have an elderly dog or one with health issues, crates can provide them with a safe space where they cannot hurt themselves accidentally. This peace of mind can be invaluable for pet parents.
Crates can also provide humans with much-needed breaks throughout the day – whether you need to take a shower, make dinner, or just need some time to yourself. Knowing that your furry friend is safely tucked away in their crate can help reduce stress levels for everyone involved!
Crate training provides many benefits for both dogs and their owners alike. If you are thinking about crate training your dog but are unsure of where to start, consult with your veterinarian or animal behaviorist for guidance specific to your pet.