There are lots of reasons to crate train your dog.
While it’s true that dogs like to run free, it is important to note that they are den animals. Small, well-defined spaces help dogs feel safe and secure. Crate training can be a great thing for many reasons. Crates can help you potty train your new puppy, they can help to ease the destructive effects of separation anxiety and they can protect your home until your new dog learns the rules. However, as beneficial as crate training can be for both you and your dog, there is a right and a wrong way to do it, and our veterinary clinic in North Merrick is here to help you to crate train the right way.
How to crate train the right way.
- Crate for a few minutes at a time – Crates can keep your dog safe while you are at work, but until your dog gets used to the crate, you shouldn’t keep them in one for a long period of time. Start out with just a few minutes, and as your dog gets more comfortable, extend the time.
- Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise – Exercise should be a top priority if you crate train your dog. As a general rule of thumb, give your dog an hour of exercise before and after they’ve been in their crate.
- Find the right size – Crates can be an excellent tool for potty training a dog, but size is incredibly important. Your dog needs to be comfortable, but if the crate is too big, they will just relieve themselves inside of it. If your puppy is still growing, consider renting a crate so that you don’t keep having to buy new ones as they get bigger.
Stay tuned for our next blog to learn about what you shouldn’t do while crate training a dog.