Crate Training

Crate training can be a positive experience for you and puppy, and it will have lifelong benefits! We encourage everyone to crate train puppy as soon as possible. See the resources listed below for videos, articles, and workshops to support you.

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CHOOSING A CRATE

How to find the right crate? There are so many! This article from the AKC website will guide you through how to measure puppy and choose a crate that will work. Plan to buy several crates through puppy's life rather than choosing only one that will accommodate a growing canine. (Outgrown crates can be donated to rescue organizations!)

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IS A CRATE LIKE A PRISON?

Rest assured, puppy will find a crate a naturally reassuring place to hang out! While dogs historically like to live in open, outdoor spaces, they do seek dens for comfort and safety. A crate can be a safe den for puppy.

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TRAINING POSITIVELY FROM DAY ONE

As with all the training we present on this site, we encourage the use of positive methods. All the resources below feature this orientation, so choose one that appeals to you! If you browse the web for resources, do your homework to learn if the trainer or method being taught are truly oriented to force-free training.

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WHEN DO I USE A CRATE?

Many people introduce the crate to puppy on the first night in their new home. Helping puppy learn to sleep in a crate will be useful throughout their lives. Housetraining is another terrific use for a crate! Whenever puppy is not eating, playing, or being directly supervised, they can be in a crate. A predictable schedule that includes time in a crate will help puppy learn to "hold it."

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