Guide to Crate Training for Puppies
Introduction: Crate training stands out as an invaluable tool for puppy owners. Providing a controlled and secure environment contributes significantly to a puppy’s overall development. To successfully implement crate training, it's crucial to comprehend the specifics of crate usage. In this guide you will learn about time management, feeding schedules, and what you should or should not have in your dog's crate.
Getting Started with Crate Training: The introduction of crate training should be gradual, fostering a positive association between the puppy and the crate as a safe space. It is essential to avoid prolonged confinement, ensuring regular opportunities for exercise and social interaction. Considering that puppies can sleep for up to 18-20 hours in a 24-hour period, they not only need a lot of down time and rest, but also structure.
Time in the Crate: Age-Based Guidelines
8-12 weeks: 1-2 hours at a time.
13-16 weeks: 2-3 hours at a time.
17-20 weeks: 2-4 hours at a time.
21-24 weeks: 3-5 hours at a time.
Timing of Food and Water:
8-week-old puppy: 15-30 minutes after eating/drinking before potty time.
12-week-old puppy: 30-60 minutes after eating/drinking before potty time.
16-24 week-old puppy: 60 minutes after eating/drinking before potty time. Adjust the times if the puppy consumes more food or water than usual.
Items in the Crate:
Bed: Soft bed is acceptable unless the puppy chews, destroys, or soils it.
Toys: Appropriate chewing toys, especially during teething, ensuring they are safe and not causing harm.
Chews: Avoid certain items like rawhides, cowhides, no hides, and dental treats. Supervise if giving a raw meaty bone.
Getting the Puppy in the Crate:
Gently place the puppy inside the crate and calmly close the door, making minimal fuss.
Use a leash to guide the puppy into the crate, removing the leash once inside.
Motivate with meals, encouraging the puppy to enter the crate before closing the door and walking away.
There usually isn't a need to “go slow” with crate training. Most of the time, the more definitive you are with how to move, interact, set rules, and boundaries, the quicker the puppy will accept it, and not make a big deal out of doing it.
Conclusion: By adhering to these detailed guidelines and tailoring them to your puppy's specific needs, crate training becomes a positive and effective experience for both the puppy and the owner. Regular monitoring and adjustments ensure a safe and nurturing environment for your furry companion.