Crate Training Your Puppy with Georgia Gamble
Bringing your puppy home for the first time can be daunting for both you and your new puppy, but it doesn’t have to be! Crate Training is a modern style of training that provides your dog with a safe and familiar environment to relax, and teaches them boundaries. Whilst it might seem fun to have your puppy sleep next to you or your children during the night, this can actually teach your pooch bad behaviours and can increase their chance of developing separation anxiety!
Meet Lacey. Lacey is a two year old Miniature Dachshund who loves her crate! Lacey began her crate training journey at 8 weeks of age. From day one, I have used a medium sized wire crate and filled it with a small, cosy, bumper bed to give Lacey a sense of comfort and security when in her crate. Lacey also has a small toy and a blanket that lives in her crate, so each time she jumps into bed, she feels relaxed and secure. For puppies who struggle to settle, you can use an analogue clock to mimic a mother’s heartbeat!
Hint: Wipe a toy or a small blanket over the bitch when you pick your dog up. The scent of your dog’s mother will soothe them during their first nights of being without their mum!
We know that all puppies are different, so what works for some, may not work for others! Lacey is very food orientated…and I used this to my advantage! To get Lacey to see her crate as her safe space, instead of a punishment, each night I give her a little treat as soon as she gets into her crate. Rewarding your dog’s good behaviour will promote re-occurrence of good behaviours!
Key Features of Crate Training:
- Sense of security
- A familiar environment for your dog to relax
- Makes travelling less stressful for your puppy
- A space for positive ‘time-out’
- Reduces mischief throughout the house during night-time
- Creates a routine
Our premium wire crates start at just $89.95 and you can shop here!
Do you have any questions? Or are you looking for some crate training advice?
Email me at georgia@woononapetfoods.com.au
