Introducing a Crate/Space

How to get your puppy using a crate/space.

Choose the right one…
First, get the right size crate, the dog (remember to think about how big your dog will become) should be able to stand up, turn around, lay down and sit without touching the sides, in addition to this there needs to be space for the bed or bedding, also enough space for the dog to lay down away from the bed (this will help your dog regulate its temperature), then an area is required for two bowls: the water bowl is to remain within the crate.

Introduction…
With all the items in place open the door wide so that it stays open, and then simply allow your dog to investigate the area. Do not have another bed or set of bowls anywhere else, in a short time your dog will go into the area, just let them come and go… do not praise them, it would be a mistake for the crate to become an excitable place, and resist the ‘photo opportunity’ (there will be plenty of time for that), in a short while your dog should be coming and going to and from his/her area at ease.

Time to close the door…
Once your dog has accepted the crate and is freely coming and going it’s time to teach the next lesson. Take your dog out for a walk on the lead around the garden or out and about (if vaccinated) for 5 minutes, allow them to toilet, a few minutes after they have emptied return to the home, take off the lead and let them see you place a ‘boredom buster’ type toy i.e. a Kong stuffed with yummy puppy food. Your dog will want to investigate/eat, when they are in and settled just close the door, secure it correctly and walk away.
Stay within sight and hearing range but do not stand and stare, just get on with something mundane. In approximately 20-30 minutes return in a calm manner and take your dog back out for another toilet break. Repeat this process.

Time to go out / to bed…
Approximately 30 minutes before these times take your dog out on a lead for one of its daily walks (remember 5 minutes for each month of their age), when you come back in take your dog ‘to bed’ (if you need to say “goodnight” or “bye” do it now but resist the urge to reward or get excited), then walk away and carry out your normal going out or to bed routine for at least 20 minutes, then just go! Do not say goodbye or goodnight again.