Sunday, September 27, 2009

Crate Training Is The Best Method For House Training Puppies

By Alicia Ainsley Summers

Crate training is the quickest way to get the job done when you are house training puppies. The reason why crate training puppies works is because it's very easy to get a grip on the eating and toilet schedule for your dog, and his opportunities for accidents are greatly reduced.

Some people have a hard time with the concept of crate training, and your puppy may whine a little bit being kept in the crate, especially if he is used to running free. However, dogs like having a den, and this creates a safe space for your puppy that he knows is his "home". A puppy is very resistant to messing up his own space, and will hold off on relieving himself until he can get to another location-this is why crate training works.

The crate needs to be large enough so your puppy can comfortably walk around in a circle and then lie down. As he gets older, upgrade to a larger crate if necessary. Crate training puppies works basically because dogs want to avoid lying in their urine so they hold off on using the toilet when in the crate for as long as possible.

Throughout the day, keep track of the times each day your puppy drinks, eats and goes to the bathroom. This way you can put together a schedule for toilet breaks around the times of day your dog might need to go. Typically, toilet times tend to happen first thing in the morning, after playtime, 30 minutes after eating, and before bedtime. For younger puppies a few nighttime time trips may also be needed.

When you take your puppy out of the crate in the morning, take him right to his toilet area. Simply carry him straight there and set him down in the toilet area if he tends to get distracted or run off. You should just stand there for 10-15 or so minutes, simply watching and waiting. If he actually goes to the bathroom, immediately give your puppy lots of verbal praise and affection, and you can also give a treat. If he doesn't go, then take him back to his crate, and in about 20 minutes or so, try again. Just repeat this pattern until successful, and once your puppy does go, reward the good behavior with playtime. You want to teach your dog that he needs to take care of business first, then he gets playtime. This sets up good habits.

Crate training puppies can take a lot of time and effort in the initial stages of house training puppies. However, if you do it properly you will be results soon. Your puppy will need frequent breaks for stretching and playing, but for the most part stays in the crate during the day during the training process.

Whenever your dog is out of his crate, keep your eyes on him at all times. If you catch him about to have an accident on the carpet, shout No! and whisk him up and take him immediately out to the right area. This can be messy and chaotic, but it is really the only chance you have to help him understand where to go.

When you are house training puppies, understand that accidents will happen. Clean it up quietly and quickly without letting your dog watch you. Use urine odor remover type cleaning products so your dog will not sniff out that area as the toilet next time. Overall, just remember that it will take time to get your puppy properly potty trained, so have patience and be consistent.

About the Author:

No comments:

Post a Comment