Crate Training Tips

By Alpha Dog Training of Utah

 

 

 

 

 We probably receive more questions about house training problems than anything else. I wish we had a quick fix, but there just isn't one. 

 

Each puppy learns at its own pace. Some only have one accident in the house, and others may have problems for months or longer unfortunately. The most effective way to transition to house training for puppies is to start on crate training immediately.

 

There are several things that are important in helping puppies succeed. Young puppies are like babies - they often need to use the bathroom every time they wake up, eat, drink or even run across the room. We have noticed that smaller dogs can sometimes have more difficulty than large breed dogs. The key is a combination of patience, consistency and persistence.

 

If a puppy is healthy, and it is living in a climate-controlled environment, it generally shouldn't need food and water continuously throughout the day and evening. (Check with a veterinarian for health issues.) Generally, we feed puppies 2 or 3 times a day and give them water multiple times throughout the day until about 6pm. (If it is hot, and the puppy is spending a lot of time outside, this will need to be adjusted to account for dehydration risks.) Limiting food and water can help them learn to hold it better - instead of needing to go constantly. (The limiting of water is very similar to potty training a toddler - if a toddler is allowed to run around with a sippy cup all day, potty training is going to be very difficult.) Check with your veterinarian if you suspect a health issue. 

 

When choosing a crate, the one used for crate training will probably not be the same one to use forever. This crate doesn't need to give the puppy too much room. Dogs don't normally like to use the bathroom where they sleep, so we want to work with that instinct. If the crate is too big, the puppy will use the bathroom on one side then try to go to the other side to sleep. Many people feel guilty about putting their puppies in crates. 

 

This doesn't have to be forever. With work, many dogs can learn to stay out in the house, but a crate can be comforting for dogs. Many of them learn to see it as a "safe place". The dog can go in the crate to relax. Giving treats and feeding the puppy in its crate will help it learn to acclimate to the crate. We generally recommend that the crate is placed in a separate room away from lots of activity.

Puppies should be allowed to have the opportunity to use the bathroom very frequently. Help prevent accidents, by taking them out very often - even once an hour. This is not always an easy process, but it is what needs to be done. The idea is to catch them before they really need to go.