Crate Training For a Puppy Is A Lot like Having a Baby in the House

Crate training for a puppy is a lot like having a baby. Your whole routine changes and takes on the schedule of the new baby. In this case, the new baby is not human but canine. Don't be fooled however, it takes discipline on your part to develop the right behaviors early on so your new pup grows up into a healthy, well adjusted companion dog.

All cute and cuddly and making your emotions melt, it's all too easy to allow puppies to take control of your home. If you have a new puppy in the house, it's important that you set ground rules and follow them yourself.

This is especially true when it comes to effectively and successfully crate training your puppy. The first order of business with any new dog is to teach them where they should go to relieve themselves and how to get there. It's up to you to do what's necessary to limit the number of potty accidents in the house.

Remember that every potty accident in the house is considered marking their territory. A puppy will begin to feel that they can urinate and even defecate anyplace in your home if these accidents are not completely cleaned up. There are good cleaners however to remove all traces of accidents.

And be aware... THERE WILL BE THE OCCASIONAL ACCIDENT!

The absolute best way to limit accidents however is to be on a consistent schedule similar to that of having a baby in the house. Babies do best when they are on the schedule of eating, sleeping and playing. Remember that a puppy is also a baby. They need adequate rest, food, playtime and the opportunity to relieve themselves.

Do not expect a puppy to stand on their hind legs and start speaking English saying,

"Open the door and let me out so I can go to the bathroom."

Instead, it's up to you to pay careful attention to their habits and the signals they send. One such signal is sniffing around.

Unless you can watch them, this is the reason why it's so critical to limit your puppies access to other parts of the house. An open crate with walls high enough to limit the pups exploration range but without a ceiling so that you can easily access your pet is best.

While it's very normal for a puppy to explore their new surroundings, one who is sniffing around and occasionally squatting is sending a clear message that they're looking for a place to use as a bathroom. It's these types of nonverbal signals that you can use to your advantage.

By catching your pup searching for that perfect bathroom place, you're able to take them directly to the door, put them down, profusely praised him, open the door and go out, encouraging your puppy toward the area were you want them to relieve themselves.

Notice that I didn't say open the door and send the dog outside.

YOU and THE PUPPY should go together outside. You to wait until your puppy urinates and/or defecates in the area desired so that you can once again have the opportunity to lavish your approval, appreciation and praise on your pooch.

It will not take long until your puppy associates the place outdoors to "GO" and your approval. Once this is established, you're well on your way to successfully house training your new best friend.

Regarding the Construction material for a
Crate Training Crate.

The discussion on the type of crate construction material continues to be a subject of discussion. Personally, the whole puppy crate training metal vs plastic debate comes down to your own preference and desires. I prefer an open top design to get closer to my dog while others want the additional security of a full enclosure.

You should also really bookmark this site and check back to learn the latest methods to quickly and completely train your dog or puppy to use the yard outside for their bathroom business. Loads of free obedience and housebreaking tips to come! Bookmark this site

crate training for a puppy

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Dog and Puppy Training Definitions & Terms:

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