If you haven’t had a lot of experience with dog crating, then a dog sitting in a crate can look like it’s being punished. However, dog crating is highly beneficial for all dogs. The number one reason you should introduce a crate to your dog’s home is to give them their personal space.

While it may fly in the face of what humans prefer, dogs like to hang out in small and confined spaces. When dogs are in an open area, they can feel exposed and unprotected from potential attacks. And yes, it is doubtful your dog will be attacked in your home, but when you’re swimming in the ocean, do you ever think about being attacked by a shark? It’s unlikely at a 1 in 5 million chance. You actually have a higher chance of being harmed by sunstroke (1 in 6,400), but you feel safer waiting on the beach, don’t you?

Well, dogs feel the same. While the home is a safe space, they feel safer in their crate. When a dog is scared, you may notice they try to find the smallest space possible, and they’ll curl up in that spot until the scary thing has gone.

Crating dogs is becoming standard for many homes as people see the benefits of crates. This blog will explain the benefits of crates and tips on training your dog to use one.

Crate training is good for you and your dog

Crate training can come in handy during all sorts of scenarios. If your dog has had surgery, it may need a quiet place to relax and heal. Crates can also help out in times of stress, such as during fireworks or thunderstorms. Dogs can retreat to their crate whenever they feel threatened, anxious, or tired. The crate is their happy space!

In your dog’s mind, the crate is a sanctuary and a place they will feel completely protected from everything the day has thrown at them. When your dog is in their crate, they must be left alone. They’ll come out after their batteries are charged, and when they feel like getting some much needed attention.

Crate training is suited for dogs of any age

Crates are usually introduced as a tool for training puppies. But, there is no age limit when it comes to crate training. If you create a positive atmosphere, and never use crates as punishment, your dog will happily stay in the crate for as long as required.

Puppies

A crate is essential for easy toilet training when you have a puppy. Feeding a young puppy (under 12 weeks) in their crate can also make cleaning up a breeze, as they’ll likely need to go very soon after eating. Dogs like to keep their sleeping area clean, and as your puppy gets older, they’ll look for a “toilet” area far from where they sleep.

Senior Dogs

Senior dogs can benefit greatly from having a crate as it can be a space that allows them uninterrupted sleep. Older dogs tend to get irritable fast, and a crate allows them an escape from younger dogs and children. Don’t let your senior dog get grouchy, give them a crate and let them mumble about doggie teenagers in there!

Tips to successfully crate train your dog

The easiest way to get your dog used to a crate is to put their food bowls inside. When they head in to eat, you can use a command, such as “crate!”. You can move some of their bedding into the crate after they’ve been inside a few times and they’re comfortable with this new object.

Continue saying the command and offering a treat when they go in the crate. Don’t push or force your dog into the crate. This will only make them fearful of it. Some dogs need longer to learn new things, but you’ll get them over that line with patience and perseverance!

You can close the door when your dog successfully goes regularly into its crate. Give them a few minutes to relax, then open the door and praise them. Closing the crate door is usually not required, but it will need to be closed during some events (vet visits, when you have guests over, etc.).

If you are struggling to train your dog to use a crate, you can watch videos on YouTube or hire the services of a professional dog trainer. Dogs usually respond very well to training once they understand what you’re asking them to do. Once your dog is trained, you’ll still need to treat them occasionally, so make sure you have plenty of their favourites on hand!

Where to buy the best dog crates

When you’re looking to buy a dog crate, the first thing you need to do is get the correct size. A dog crate needs to be large enough that your dog can walk inside and turn around comfortably. A suitable method for finding out the correct size required is to measure your dog when they are curled up and asleep.

After you have the measurements you need, you can choose a crate suitable for your dog. At Aussie Pet Doors, we have several crates available and these all collapse for easy transport. Our crates are made from aluminium, strong enough to last a lifetime! Order yours today!