Crate training your dog was probably not on our minds when we decided on a pet. No matter if your pet is a puppy or an older dog, we usually had some very specific thoughts that made the decision to get a pet easier.

It may have been the idea of playing catch or having someone that wants to hang around all the time with you. Still, crate training was probably not the first thing on your mind but more about what makes having a pet so fulfilling.

While house training wasn't the most important consideration, it's not to late to start thinking about it now. Realize that unless you like having your dog urinate and poop all over your house, you need to teach him some manners.

Make no mistake, crate training your dog is the first order of business when you first get a new puppy or even older adult dog. By crate training, you end up with a well behaved friend. And contrary to what some claim, it's not considered cruel or difficult, nor is it kenneling or storing your pet in a cage.

Don't make the mistake of leaving house training for later.

Potty accidents and bad habits developed by your puppy can increase the difficulty in having success with crate training your puppy later. You want to limit the chance of your dog relieving himself in your home.

It only takes about 5 seconds for a dog to find an acceptable place, squat and you end up with a mess. So if you cannot keep watch 100% of the time, your pet needs to be confined. This idea forms the basis for successful potty training of your pet. House training your dog is key if you want to have a reliably trained companion. Start the training off right by limiting the possibility of developing bad behaviors before they happen. One good idea is use a lightweight leash to control your puppy when bringing them inside your home. This way you can move them directly into the crate.

The most important thing to remember is that all canines are naturally pack animals. Someone must be the leader and the rest submit to that leadership.

You want to be certain that YOU are firmly established as the leader of the pack no matter how headstrong or difficult your pup may become. There's no room for more than one leader and that should always be you in your mind and your pets.

Once you get your dog in the habit of going directly to his crate when in the house, you're beginning to gain control of the situation and well on your way to successfully housebreaking your puppy. The idea of crate training your dog is always an exercise in teaching good manners.

Teaching your puppy should be more than tricks. It's a way to allow them the opportunity to learn new behaviors that are pleasing to you. Teaching new behaviors is so much easier than trying to correct bad habits so take the time to learn how to do it right.

Basic house training can be done with any dog at any age. Even an active canine can be house trained with a little effort on your part. Portuguese Water Dog Puppy Crate Training