Crate Training
Crate training is a wonderful way to train your new dog or puppy. It keeps them safe and out of mischief while you are away from home. You want to make sure you have the right size crate, this is very important. The dog should able to stand up and turn around in the crate. Many crates come with a divider so you can make it smaller for your puppy and move it as he or she grows. Crate training also helps with house breaking, a dog will not soil where they sleep so the learn control.
You want to introduce your dog/puppy to his/her crate slowly. Bring it into a room where the family spends most of their time. Drop treats into the crate and praise your dog/puppy when he/she enters the crate. After your dog/puppy if comfortable with going in and out of the crate you can now shut the door. Start off slowly, shut the crate door and walk away for 10 to 15 minutes. Open the door back up and praise your dog/puppy by giving him/her a treat. Soon your dog/puppy will go into the crate on their own and think of it as their den.
Never use the crate as punishment, this will only make the dog/puppy dislike the crate. I also find it useful to fill a Kong up with peanut butter and then freeze it. Give it to your dog/puppy while in the crate and it will keep them busy.
Also make sure you make their crate is comfortable for them. Put a blanket or pillow in the crate. Make sure they have water as well. I use a bowl that attaches to the crate so it does not spill.
By using a crate you also give your dog/puppy a space of their own.
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