As a dog mama who has realised the benefits of crates for her pups, Eliza Kennedy started The Paws Room to provide an alternative to traditional wire crates. The Paws Room collection provides stylish and Australian made furniture solutions that blend into shared living spaces as both a dog crate and side table.
Cam McKinnon has used crates for over 20 years with various working dogs. Through his dog training business, Complete K9, Cam supports pet parents to overcome the myth that crates are cages for dogs to be forced into and shows how as den animals, dogs will seek out a crate to relax and feel safe.
Cam and Eliza now partner through puppy classes at Aussie Dog Showroom that include guidance on crate and place training. Here they discuss why that’s important.
How Old Should a Dog Be to Start Crate Training?
The easiest time to set crate training up is the puppy stage as early as 8 weeks old. The dog grows up knowing it’s their safe space when their brain development is at their greatest. Young puppies are more adaptable and can quickly learn to associate the crate with positive experiences. It’s important to ensure that the crate training process is gradual and positive, letting your dog discover and be rewarded for exploring and spending time in the crate until they associate it with a happy, safe space they choose to relax.
Is It Too Late to Crate Train an Adult Dog?
Many behavioural issues I see in adult dogs are due to them suffering anxiety and they need a safe space so they don’t think they need to always be on guard. I’m recommending crates to dogs of all ages and you can definitely teach an old dog new tricks.
While it may take a little longer for an older dog to adjust, patience and positive reinforcement can help them learn to see the crate as a safe and comfortable space. Gradual introduction and ensuring the crate is a positive experience with treats, toys, and comfortable bedding are key to successful crate training at any age.
What Are the Main Benefits of Crate Training?
Safety and Security: As den animals, crates provide a sanctuary for your puppy, offering a safe place to retreat and relax. It can also protect them from potential household hazards when you can't supervise them directly.
Housebreaking Aid: Dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. Crate training leverages this instinct, making it easier to teach your puppy to hold their bladder until they're taken outside.
Preventing Destructive Behaviour: By confining your puppy to a crate when unsupervised, you can prevent destructive behaviors like chewing on furniture or getting into trash.
Travel Convenience: Crate-trained dogs travel more comfortably and safely in a crate, whether in a car or on a plane. It also makes staying in unfamiliar places, such as vet stays, hotels or friends' homes, less stressful.
Establishing Routine: Crate training helps establish a routine, which can be beneficial for both you and your puppy. It creates a structured environment that can make training easier and more predictable.
How Long Should I Leave My Puppy in the Crate?
Old style training used force and compulsion but now we allow dogs to self discover. Any time we see them going into the crate we reward them with a high value treat. Just through association the pup discovers the crate is a happy place and every time they go there they get treated. Over time it becomes a safe zone and part of the routine with them happy to spend hours or sleep overnight in their crate.
What Size Crate Should I Get?
The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. However, it shouldn't be so large that they can designate a corner for soiling. Many crates come with adjustable dividers, allowing you to resize the crate as your puppy grows. Measure your dog from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and add a few centimetres to determine the appropriate crate size.
Any Other Recommendations for Pup Parents on Crate Training?
Providing your dog with a crate is part of setting them up for success in the home and helps avoid the anxiety I see so much with the dogs I’m helping. Stick with rewarding your dog every time they choose to enter their crate and help them build up that positive association. It will be well worth it in the long run!
To shop stylish and lasting dog crate furniture, visit https://www.thepawsroom.com.au/
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