Things you should never do with

crates.

Use for punishment.

As we said before, crates should never be used for punishment. Start small with no more than 2 hours for two months old, 3 hours for three months old, and so on until you’re at 4-5 hours tops. Be sure to work up to this gradually, with 15-minute intervals of you leaving and then returning and rewarding with treats.

Use too small or too large of a crate. Too small, and your dog can’t even turn around. This is not good for them and can create anxiety. Too large, and they’ll feel as though they have enough room to eliminate at one end and retreat to the other, thus, creating a very unpleasant mess.

Leave crates out in the elements. A dog should never be left out in extreme cold or heat. A crate can be covered with a blanket or towel to create more privacy or add warmth, but it should be in a comfortable environment. Ideally, crate training is for inside use and works well for potty training.

Let your puppy or dog out when they are crying or barking.

This only reinforces that they’ll be released if they make a noise. It may be hard at first to listen to your new puppy cry when they are first getting used to the crate, but they will quickly learn that as soon as they quiet down, they will be let out.

Caring Crating Recap.

Of course, coupled with other techniques and forms of training, you’ll have a well-behaved and happy dog if you decide to use a crate. Remember, if you stay positive about a crate and how you associate it with the confinement, your dog will too. Use treats to encourage the entry of the crate and make it your dog’s favorite place to be. When used correctly, crate training can be caring and not cruel. Crate training for puppies is especially beneficial in their development and obedience. As your dog gets older, they may be allowed to sleep on your bed or beside you on the sofa, but having their special place, their crate, will also enhance their well-being and yours.