Crate Training
A common complaint about puppies (and older dogs) concerns the mischief created while the dog is alone in the house. From the young dog's view being alone may be stressful. It's at this time that household damage may occur.
An excellent way to avoid the damage that can result from this stress is to confine the dog to a comfortable den-like enclosure. A good devise to use as his den is a collapsible wire crate.
Some people feel it is cruel to confine a dog to a crate. I would be cruel to throw a puppy in a crate and leave for eight hours. But if you take the time to properly introduce him to his den, you'll find that he'll come to prefer to be in it for sleeping and being alone.
When you chose a crate, be sure that it is the right size. The crate must be large enough for the adult dog to stand up straight, turn around and lie down in a stretched position.
Introducing your dog to the crate should be positive and fun. Never place your dog in his crate after disciplining him. Your dog needs to feel that his crate is a happy, secure place. Select a command such as "in your house" and encourage him to enter by tossing a treat/toy into the crate. Leave the door open at first. Once your dog enters readily, close the door for a few minutes and praise him with a cheerful, positive voice.
Scheduling is very important. Puppies should not be crated for more than three hours per day. They cannot be expected to hold their small bowels and bladders for more than a couple of hours. Adult dogs should not be crated for more than eight hours. Any complaining the dog may do at the beginning isn't usually caused by the crate but by the controls set by this unfamiliar environment. Do not let him out when he is whining or complaining. By doing so you will only reward his "bad" behaviour. When the dog settles down for five minutes, release him from the crate. Once you feel your dog can be left on his own, you may practice leaving him alone for short periods of time. Allow the dog access to only certain areas of your home. Put breakable and dangerous items well out of reach.
Your dog's crate is a tool which should allow you to have a smoother, happier relationship with your dog. It is not intended as a place to leave your dog and ignore him. Although crate training is a very effective method of training your dog, it may not be the answer to every behaviour problem your dog might exhibit. For this reason it is a good idea to contact your veterinarian for advice. You may also contact one of our Animal Behaviour Counsellors at 613-725-1366 ext. 236.
