How to crate train your dog, according to experts
Experts share how to properly crate train your dog and what to look for in a good-quality crate. We also compiled some of the best dog crates to consider.
The Ultimate Dog Crate by Frisco is made of 22-gauge, high-grade steel with one-half-inch diameter bars that your dog will have a tough time chewing through. It also includes a dual latch lock, which the brand claims is positioned out of reach of curious pups. At just over 102 pounds, the crate is heavy, but it has built-in wheels and foot breaks for easy transportation. This Frisco crate also features a grated floor along with a removable metal tray to clean up any accidents.
This crate includes a four-point vault door for security and a hard plastic exterior that’ll give you some peace of mind (and your pup some privacy) during air travel. The carrier has open steel wire vents on three sides and more than a dozen holes in the back for proper ventilation. It also comes with clip-on food and water bowls for traveling. While this carrier meets most airline requirements for pet carriers, always double-check before you fly.
This soft-sided crate by EliteField is easily collapsible and turns into a portable tote for easy traveling. It comes with a removable, machine washable bed and breathable mesh on all four sides for comfort and ventilation.
This play pen by Frisco can provide up to 18 square feet of play space for your pup. Each of the pen’s eight interlocking panels feature non-skid rubber feet that will keep it securely in place.
How long the crate training process takes depends on several factors — including the dog’s past experience, age and temperament — but hurrying the process or making mistakes that can cause negative associations with the crate drag it out even longer. David Birse, DVM, the regional director at Bond Vet, noted that some mistakes, like leaving your dog in their crate for a long period of time without building up to it, “can really set you back” and have a psychological impact on your dog.
Here are a few tips for making sure the crate training process is smooth and successful:
Gently introduce it: Place the crate in a space where your dog is clearly comfortable and introduce it using a calm and happy tone. Birse recommends placing a few toys or treats inside of the crate so your pup has positive associations toward it. He also suggests adding a dog bed or blankets to maximize comfort and feeding your dog meals from inside their crate, which can encourage them to have positive associations towards it.
Be patient: The process for crate training a dog can be time-consuming, so make sure it’s something you can and are willing to commit to. “It's really important to have the patience to get them used to it, so that they're happy and they understand that they can investigate it a little bit,” said Birse.
Never force them in: “It’s just going to exacerbate their existing anxiety,” said Birse. “If your goal is for this to be a long-term situation for the dog, then that’s counterproductive.”
Keep it accessible: If your dog is older and initially anxious about the crate, Birse suggests keeping the door open throughout the day so they can go in and out voluntarily, and building up to the point where they’re comfortable with the door shut.
Always take off the collar: There’s a risk associated with a dog’s collar getting stuck on one of the crate’s wires, especially with open metal crates. Make sure to never place your dog inside a crate with their collar on.
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