While puppies are certainly precious little things, dog owners know that cute barks and kisses during the day can turn into whimpers and howls at night – and that’s not exactly what promotes good sleep. So what can you do? Sleeping with your furry friend is an option when he grows up, but if you don’t want your bed to be fur-free (and you don’t want to use that nice puppy bed you paid for), then crate training. This is the best choice! POPSUGAR spoke to several veterinarians for expert advice on the best cage training methods that are effective, efficient and easy to learn (for you and your puppy).
No matter how cute your puppy is, no one likes to fix accidents in the middle of the night. When you need to leave your dog unattended, cage training provides him with a safe space. This prevents them from getting into any potential danger (such as chewing on something dangerous) when they are alone. In addition, Dr. Richardson says, “Your pet loves having a comfortable, quiet, and safe space that they know is theirs, and if they feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even just tired, they can retire here! prevent separation anxiety when they are alone.”
According to Maureen Murity (DVM), a licensed veterinarian and spokesperson for online pet resource SpiritDogTraining.com, another benefit is that cage training can help with home training. “Since dogs don’t like to get dirty in their sleeping quarters, it’s a good idea to start cage training before they’re fully potty trained.”
First, choose the right crate for your puppy, which Dr. Richardson says should be “comfortable but not claustrophobic.” If it’s too big, they may want to do their business inside, but you also need to make sure it’s big enough for your dog to get up and turn around when the door closes.
From there, place the crate in a quiet spot in your home, such as an unused nook or spare bedroom. Then introduce the dog to the crate with the same command (such as “bed” or “box”) each time. “Do it after a workout or game, not when they’re full of energy,” says Dr. Richardson.
While your puppy may not like it at first, he or she will quickly get used to the crate. Heather Venkat, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, VIP Puppy Companion Veterinarian, recommends starting cage training as early as possible. “First, open the cage door and throw in a treat or a few pieces of puppy food,” says Dr. Venkait. “If they enter or even look, praise them out loud and give them a treat after they enter. Then immediately release them. snacks or treats.” Put them in the dry food bin and then immediately discard them. Ultimately, you’ll be able to keep them in the bin longer without upsetting them.”
Feel free to offer treats to your puppy, which Dr. Venkait calls “a sine qua non of crate training.” She adds: “The overall goal is for your puppy or dog to really love their crate and associate it with something positive. So when they are in the cage, give them treats or food. Encourage them, it will be much easier. when you need them.” “
To make it easier to crate your puppy, the veterinarians we spoke to agree that you should gradually increase the amount of time your puppy is caged alone.
“From the cage next to your bed so the puppy can see you. In some cases, you may need to temporarily place the cage on the bed. Small puppies need to be taken to the potty at night, but they gradually begin to sleep. all night long. Older puppies and adult dogs can be caged for up to eight hours.”
Dr. Muriti recommends pet parents sit near the cage for about 5-10 minutes before leaving the room. Over time, increase the amount of time you spend away from the cage so your dog gets used to being alone. “Once your dog can be quiet in the crate without seeing it for about 30 minutes, you can gradually increase the amount of time you spend in the crate,” Dr. Merrity says. “Consistency and patience are the keys to successful cage learning.”
Because most puppies need to go to the bathroom every few hours during the night, you should take them out at 11 pm before bed and let them guide you when they need to go to the bathroom, Dr. Richardson says. “They wake up on their own and are more likely to whine or make noises when they need to go,” she explained. From now on, you can keep them in the cage for longer as they develop bladder control over time. Keep in mind that if they’re whining and demanding to get out of the cage more than once every few hours, they may just want to play. In this case, Dr. Richardson recommends ignoring the crates’ bad behavior so as not to encourage them.
First, your puppy climbed into the cage without your persuasion, says Dr. Merrity. Also, according to Dr. Venkat, you’ll know your puppy is working when he stays calm in the cage, doesn’t whine, scratch or try to run away, and when he doesn’t have any accidents in the cage.
Dr. Richardson agrees, adding: “They often curl up and either eat something, play with a toy, or just go to bed. If they whine quietly for a while and then stop, they’re fine too. see if he pulls them out! If your dog is slowly tolerating being caged longer, then your training is working.” Keep up the good work and they will be happy in the cage Stay in the cage all night!
Post time: Jun-30-2023
