AKC Crate Training: A Comprehensive Guide

Crate training is a popular method for housebreaking and reducing separation anxiety in dogs.

A crate is a safe space for your dog to relax and feel secure.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), crate training can help with potty training by giving your dog a designated area to hold their bladder and bowels.

Dogs can hold their bladder for one hour per month of age, so a crate can be a useful tool in the housebreaking process.

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Before starting crate training, it's essential to understand that it's a long-term process that requires patience and planning.

Crate training doesn't happen overnight, and introducing your dog to a crate should take place over a long period of time (several weeks or more).

Young dogs can only be expected to control their bladder and bowels for a few hours, not an entire work day or overnight.

A dog who is forced to soil her crate as a result of being crated too long will be much more difficult to housetrain.

Use your puppy's age in months plus one to determine the number of hours he can be crated.

For example, if your puppy is six months old, he can be crated for seven hours.

It's also crucial to create a dog-safe environment for your dog to sleep in when you're not around.

A small bathroom, kitchen, gated-off area of a room, or an ex-pen containing the dog's crate (with door removed) can be a great alternative to crate training.

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Choosing the right crate for your dog is crucial for crate training. You want to get one that's durable, comfortable, and flexible with whatever training you're doing.

There are two main types of crates: hard plastic airline-style crates and wire crates. Most pups can learn to be comfortable in either type, but wire crates have more versatility when it comes to door placement and customizing the size of the interior with a divider.

When selecting a crate, consider the size. Your dog crate should be large enough so that your dog can stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably, but not much bigger. Pet parents of puppies can anticipate their dog's growth by purchasing the largest sized crate their dog will need when they're fully grown and using an adjustable crate divider to keep the available space inside the right size.

Here are some crate options to consider:

Choosing the right crate for your dog is just the first step – you'll also need to gather the right supplies to make the crate a happy place for them. You'll want a crate mat, like the Frisco Micro Terry Dog Crate Mat, to keep your dog comfortable.

Treats are a must-have for crate introduction and training. Small savory treats, like Wellness Soft Puppy Bites Lamb & Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dog Treats, can help reinforce good behavior.

For more insights, see: What Treats to Use for Dog Training

Toys can be a challenge for high-energy dogs, but busy toys like the KONG Classic or a West Paw Zogoflex Small Tux Tough Treat Dispensing Dog Chew Toy can keep them focused and happy.

Here are some specific supplies you'll need to consider:

Storing your dog's crate in a quiet spot is crucial for their comfort and your convenience. The perfect spot is a location that's quiet enough for your pup to rest but not so far off that they're isolated from the household.

A corner of the living room, dining room, or other area where family regularly gathers is an ideal location for a dog crate. This way, your pup can still feel connected to the household.

You'll want to put the crate close enough to your bed that you can hear them ask to go out at night. This is especially important for young puppies who often need to go out for a potty trip at least once before morning.

If keeping the crate in your bedroom isn't an option, consider using a dog monitor near the crate so you can hear when your puppy needs a potty trip. This way, you can still take care of their needs without having to get out of bed.

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Breeders and vets recommend crate training your dog, and it's not just for puppies. Dogs instinctively seek small spaces to create protective shelters for themselves, making crates a natural fit.

Crates are useful training tools for puppies, safe havens for senior dogs, and lifesavers for emergencies. In fact, most veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend crate training dogs from a young age.

Crate training is an essential part of housebreaking puppies, as dogs don't like to soil their sleeping quarters. They learn to hold their bladders while they're in their crate, so you won't have to clean up messes.

A crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not much bigger. This is because an oversized crate can derail the potty-training process by giving your pup the space to go to the bathroom at one end while staying dry in the other.

You can anticipate your dog's growth by purchasing the largest sized crate they'll need when they're fully grown and using an adjustable crate divider to keep the available space inside the right size.

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Choosing the right crate for your dog is crucial. The type of crate you choose should be durable, comfortable, and flexible with whatever training you're doing.

There are two main types of crates: hard plastic airline-style crates and wire crates. Most dogs can learn to be comfortable in either type, but wire crates have more versatility when it comes to door placement and customizing the size of the interior with a divider.

You'll also need to pick the correct size of the crate. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. However, it's essential to avoid oversized crates that can derail the potty-training process.

To anticipate your dog's growth, consider purchasing a crate that will accommodate their adult size. You can also use a crate divider to keep the available space inside the right size.

Here are the key considerations when choosing the right crate:

Remember, the right crate will make a big difference in your dog's comfort and training. By choosing the right type and size, you'll set your dog up for success and create a happy, safe space for them to rest and relax.

Crate training is a great way to help your dog feel safe and secure, but it's essential to do it right. The goal is to make the crate a positive spot for your dog, not a place of confinement.

Drop treats around the crate to encourage your dog to enter, and don't force them to go inside if they're not interested. This process may take just a few minutes or as long as several days.

Feeding your dog's meals in their crate with the door open can help make it a positive spot. Place the bowls next to the crate for a few meals, then just inside of it, and finally at the back of the crate.

Give your dog plenty of time to feel comfortable inside the crate before closing the door and leaving them alone for the first time. This will help create a positive association with being inside the crate.

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To speed up the crate training process, remember to give your dog a potty break before putting them in the crate, and take them outside immediately after letting them out. This is especially important for puppies, whose "hold time" is still developing.

Here are some general guidelines for crate training:

Remember, crate training is not about punishing your dog, but about helping them feel safe and secure. If your dog is still not settling into the crate, they may be experiencing separation anxiety or discomfort.

Introducing the crate is a crucial step in AKC crate training.

Place the crate in a high-traffic area of your home, such as the family room, and add a soft blanket or bed to make it inviting.

Take the door off or keep it propped open to let your dog explore the crate at their own pace. Some dogs will be naturally curious and start sleeping in the crate right away.

If your dog is hesitant, bring them over to the crate and talk to them in a happy tone of voice. Make sure the crate door is open and secured so that it won't hit your dog and frighten them.

To encourage your dog to enter the crate, drop small food treats nearby, then just inside the door, and finally, all the way inside the crate. If they refuse to go all the way in at first, that's okay; don't force them to enter.

Here are some tips to help your dog feel comfortable in the crate:

Crate training is a process that requires patience and consistency. Introduce your dog to the crate by dropping treats inside the door, and gradually move them further in to encourage entry.

It's essential to not force your dog to enter the crate, as this can create fear and anxiety. Repeat this experience until your dog calmly walks in to get a treat.

If your dog isn't interested in food, try using a favorite toy instead. This process may take a few minutes or several days, depending on your dog's personality.

Once your dog is comfortable with the crate, start feeding them regular meals near it to create pleasant associations. Place the dish a little more toward the back of the crate each time, so your dog learns to eat while standing in the crate.

As your dog becomes comfortable eating in the crate, you can close the door while they're eating. Initially, open the door as soon as they finish their meal, but gradually increase the time they spend in the crate.

If your dog whines to be let out, you may have increased the duration too quickly. Try leaving them in the crate for shorter periods, and be sure to release them when they're calm.

To manage whining, ensure your dog's needs are met before putting them in the crate. If the whining persists, ignore it initially, as your dog may just be testing to see if they'll be let out.

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To ensure crate training success, it's essential to make it a positive experience for your dog. Try feeding them meals or treats in their crate to associate it with a reward.

Make sure your crate is the right size for your growing puppy. A crate should allow your dog to stand up to their full height and turn in a circle comfortably, but not be so big that it creates a distinct potty and sleeping area.

Crating your dog at varying times before leaving the house can help them adjust to being left alone. You can crate your dog anywhere from 2-20 minutes prior to leaving, but avoid crating them for an extended period beforehand.

Don't make departures emotional and prolonged, as this can create anxiety in your dog. Instead, praise your dog briefly and give them a treat for entering the crate, then leave quietly.

To avoid creating separation anxiety, keep arrivals low-key and reserve playful greetings for after your dog has calmed down. This will help them associate your return with a positive experience.

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Crating your dog for short periods when you're home can help them adjust to being confined and prevent them from associating it with being left alone. This will also help them learn to relax in their crate.

To prevent your dog from feeling isolated, keep their crate in or near your bedroom overnight. This will allow them to feel secure and comfortable, and also help them tell you when they need to go potty in the middle of the night.

Here are some general guidelines for crate training:

Remember to do extensive research on crate training and consider consulting a dog trainer if you have questions. Sticking to your plan is key to ensuring the greatest chance of success.

Crating periods and schedules are crucial for a successful crate training experience. Dogs need time outside the crate to play, eat, and use the bathroom.

You'll need to balance crate time with playtime, mealtime, and potty breaks to avoid accidents.

Crate training can take anywhere from several days to several weeks, depending on your dog's age, temperament, and previous experiences.

Be sure to keep an eye on the time spent in the crate, as dogs don't want to soil where they sleep.

Crate training benefits all types of dogs, regardless of their background or breed. Whether you're a seasoned dog owner or a first-time pet parent, crates can be a game-changer for your furry friend.

For rescued dogs, a crate provides a safe space to adjust to their new surroundings and the luxury of not having to fight for their own space. Crates allow rescued dogs to know they have their own territory and no one will hurt them in it.

Rescued dogs often benefit from crate training because it helps improve their confidence and curtails problematic behavior, such as barking and destruction. By crate training, you're giving your rescued dog a sense of security and stability.

Hunting dogs also benefit from crate training, keeping them comfortable during hunts and on the road. This is especially beneficial for hunters, as it keeps their wet and muddy dogs contained.

Insecure dogs need less space to protect, making a crate a more suitable option than giving them access to the entire house. By providing a smaller territory, you're helping your dog relax and feel more secure.

Here are some benefits of crate training for different types of dogs: