Menu

Download our Petland App today for information on your local Petland's Available Pets and Pet Supplies. All at the tips of your fingers!

Petland Logo
Login/Register

Please create a free account, or login by clicking here.

Crate training made simple

December 23, 2019

Crate training is not complex, but if you have never crate trained you might have mixed feelings about using the crate. It’s important to remember that crate training isn’t cruel, it’s actually a great way to create healthy boundaries for you and your pup. Here are a few tips to make crate training simple.

1. Not Making it Comfortable

You want your dog to have positive associations with the crate. Step 1 in that goal is to make sure that the crate is comfortable for your dog. Make sure the crate is large enough so that your dog can stand up and turn around. Make it homey with a comfy bed and whatever else your pooch digs.

2. Giving In and Letting Out

This can be critical. You know the drill. Your dog starts that pathetic little whimper and gives you that look. You know, that look.

Anyway, you just can’t resist and you just give in and let your dog out of the crate. The problem is that your dog learns that whimpering and whining will eventually get her out. Stay strong!

3. Not Feeding in the Crate

Dogs love food. The easiest way to create positive vibes around the crate is to feed your puppy in the crate. It also establishes a good routine. By not feeding in the crate, you are missing out on the most powerful positive association.

4. Forcing Your Dog Into the Crate

Don’t force your dog into the crate. Use your brain to figure out a way to get your doggy in without force. Or just steal these ideas: use food or a toy.

5. Crating Your Dog for Too Long

Crating a dog is not a long term option. By long term, I mean that you shouldn’t crate your dog for 8 hours straight while you are at work. 

Related Articles

View All Articles

  • Image Not Found

    Steps to Introducing Your Pet to a Newborn

    Becoming a best friend and protector to your new bundle of joy is an exciting role that many canines are proud to take on. On the other hand, some dogs aren’t into the whole ...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Should My Dog Be Eating Grass?

    Are you finding yourself wondering if you bought a cow instead of a dog? If so, you’re not alone in this dilemma. Many dog owners find themselves scratching their heads and w...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Are Daily Walks With My Dog Necessary?

    This may seem like an easy question to answer, but it’s not always cut and dry.  Daily walks are great for you and your dog – you both get some needed exercise and...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Does Your Dog Snore?

    Are cuddles–or worse conference calls!–often interrupted by your best pal’s snores? If so, you’re probably wondering if this is normal and why it’s ha...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    All About Dog Teeth

    Have you always wondered about your puppies’ teeth? How about your adult dog and how to make sure that they have the right at-home dental care? Here are 5 interesting facts a...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Popcorn Treats for Dogs

    When thinking about popcorn, the nostalgia brings us back to buttered up theater popcorn, a giant soda, some Milk Duds, and a good flick. Well, what about popcorn for dogs? Can dog...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Dog Skin Care Tips For Spring

    Spring sunshine is here and you will want to enjoy time outside with your dog. Just as you protect your skin from nature and sun exposure, you should do the same for your pup. We w...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Why is my puppy’s energy so high?

    There are actually a lot of possible reasons that your Puppy is being so energetic. Here are a few. It needs more exercise Many different types of dogs are bred to do energy-intens...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    4 Super Helpful Dog Bathing Tips

    Life is crazy enough without wrestling your wet dog in your bathtub, so here are 4 helpful tips you can use right away to help make doggy bath time better at your house: Bathing on...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    5 Things You Do That Your Puppy Loves

    Dogs are man’s best friend, and this special bond can be strengthened when we go the extra mile to understand the things that our pups love. Here are 5 things that you do tha...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    5 First Tricks for Your New Puppy

    Coming home with a new puppy is one of the most exciting events that could happen in an animal lover’s life. Their excitement and cuteness are infectious with their little pa...

    Read This Blog

  • Image Not Found

    Choose The Best Dog Food

    If you could help your dog to live a long and fruitful life would you do it.? The answer for most pet owners is “of course”. Well, the great news for you is that you ca...

    Read This Blog

Help Need Help?