Crate Training is a method that is commonly used to house train dogs. A crate (cage) is normally constructed from plastic or metal and comes in a wide range of sizes to fit all dog breeds. Crate training dogs is considered to have positive results for both the dog and its master.

Crate training works very well because dogs and puppies dont like to go to the toilet where they sleep. Given that crate training requires that your dog sleeps in the crate, your dog will quickly learn how to hold its pee until it is out of the crate.

When crate training dogs (or puppies) the crate is meant to replicate the puppies den. The puppy will usually stay in the crate at all times except for feeding and supervised play times. When the puppy is let free from the crate it should be taken to the toilet area immediately.

Your dogs crate should be about one and a half times its body length and slightly higher than your dog in its standing position. If your crate is too long it is recommended that you block of one end. Excess space can act as a bathroom for you dog so it shouldnt be permitted. Plastic crates are the most popular these days as they are durable and very easy to clean.

You should take your puppy to the toilet fairly regularly during the crate training period. As your puppy grows you can reduce the number of times it is let out of the crate each day as it will get used to holding its urges to go to the toilet.

Ideally your puppy should see the crate in a positive light. You can build up this positive association by feeding you dog inside or close to the crate. Also make the crate more enjoyable by putting your puppies most loved toys inside there. To further grow the positive view of the crate, give all your dogs good behaviour rewards to your dog inside the crate.

Crates should never be used to enforce punishment and you should avoid locking your dog in the crate when you are not in the house. Dogs should not be left in the crate for too long as they may begin to fear the crate and get anxious.

Crates can be very convenient for transporting your dog or puppy. Crates are useful when travelling in the car with your dog and are required for all air travel.

Crate training does work well but its not for everyone. Some people frown on crate training as they believe dogs can become too emotionally attached to the crate due to spending so many hours inside it.

For information on many other aspects of dog training, puppy training, and crate training a link is provide below.