Closed Crate Training

Why Crates are Important

Dogs are naturally den animals. They need a small space in the home to escape to (appropriate for their size). Crates can provide a safe, personal space for them - something that is just theirs. It can also be a safe and secure space for the puppy to be in while the family is away (until the puppy can be trusted to be alone in the house alone.

Crates Can Help with Potty Training!

During the first year of their life, it can also be a vital tool to help support potty training. Puppies do not like to soil their sleeping space, so a closed crate can incrementally train them how to hold their bladders for longer periods of time. In the beginning, puppies should be released from the crate every couple of hours so that they have an opportunity to relieve themselves. Once they know that they will have potty breaks, they will be more inclined to "hold it." As their bladders develop, they will be able to remain in their crates for longer periods of time. Before long, they will be able to sleep in their crates through the night.

How We Use the Crate

When puppies turn 4 weeks of age, we introduce OPEN-CRATE TRAINING. The crate doors remains open in their puppy room, and the puppies can go in and out of the crates at their leisure.

When the puppies turn 6 weeks of age, we introduce 30-45 minutes of CLOSE-CRATE TRAINING each day. As soon as the door closes on them, the puppies initially hate the restriction. They are vocal, angry, and desperately try to find an escape route. In a soothing voice, we talk to them, letting them know that they are okay. We also play soothing music for them in the background. Within minutes, a few start to hush and calm. Before long, all puppies become calm and quiet.

After a few days of consistent training, the pups come to enjoy their crate time. In fact, when we enter the puppy room, most of them continue to sleep soundly while the others wait patiently to be released.

Each family will choose to use their crates differently. While we NEVER promote crating dogs for long periods of time, crates can offer a safe escape for them to rest, especially when the family is away or when it is time for bed.

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