Crate training your new puppy
We picked up Mila on a Thursday evening in early April 2019. She came with a small crate, a bed, her starter food, and of course a ball. We knew before we even picked her up that we were going to crate train because of all the benefits we learned about from trainers, breeders, behaviorists, and our own research.
Not going to lie, the first few nights were ruff. She cried, like a baby. I kid you not, we were up every few hours because of her crying - we couldn’t tell if it was because she wanted to go potty, because she was sad she wasn’t with her littermates, because she missed her mama, because she was in a new place with new hoomans - or all the above. We were aggravated, sad, nervous, and worried that we were doing something wrong.
Here is a delightful breakdown of our first crating experience:
We started with her crate in the kitchen - because that’s where her permanent crate was going to be stationed at the time.
Then it moved into the hall way - because we thought maybe she wanted to be closer to us…
Eventually I was so desperate for her to stop crying I decided to lay on the floor with her while she was in the crate hoping she would fall asleep.
Her crate ended up in the bedroom - but then we moved it back into the hallway because we couldn’t sleep with her crying the whole night.
She peed in the bed that was in her crate… even though we already let her out numerous times before. So we had to clean that mess up in the middle of the night, but actually it was morning at that point.
Thankfully it only lasted a few nights before she adjusted - we did a lot of work during the day to help her adjust but she was also very independent and confident even as a puppy.
Crate training offers several important benefits, both for us and for Mila. Here are some of the most crucial reasons for crate training:
Safety: Crating provides a safe space for your puppy when you can't supervise them. It prevents them from getting into dangerous situations or chewing on hazardous items.
Housebreaking: Crate training can accelerate the housebreaking process. Dogs are naturally inclined to avoid soiling their sleeping area, so they are less likely to have accidents in the crate.
Destruction Prevention: It helps protect your home and belongings from a teething puppy's destructive tendencies. Crating keeps them from chewing on furniture, electrical cords, or other items.
Separation Anxiety: Crate training can reduce separation anxiety in puppies. It creates a secure and comforting space for them when you're not around.
Travel Safety: A crate is a safe way to transport your puppy in a car. It prevents them from distracting the driver and ensures their safety in case of an accident.
Routine and Discipline: Crating helps establish a daily routine for your puppy, teaching them when it's time to eat, sleep, and go outside.
Time Alone: It allows your puppy to get used to being alone for short periods, which is crucial for their development and prepares them for longer separations.
Behavior Management: It aids in teaching good behavior and manners. When used properly, it reinforces positive habits and discourages unwanted ones.
Veterinary Visits: Crate training makes veterinary visits less stressful for your pup and easier for you, as many vet offices use crates.
Guests and Strangers: Crating can be useful when you have guests or service people in your home. It prevents your puppy from jumping on or bothering visitors.
Travel and Hotels: If you plan to travel with your dog or stay in dog-friendly hotels, a crate provides a familiar and safe space for your pup.
Emergency Preparedness: In case of emergencies, having a crate-trained dog makes it easier to evacuate or transport them safely.
Crate training, when done correctly and with patience, creates a positive and secure environment for your puppy. It's an essential tool for their well-being and your peace of mind as a responsible pet owner.
Check out our free eBook on Crate Training below!!!
