How to crate t ra in a dog at n ightIt can be said that crate training is part of being a loving, responsible dog owner. Nevertheless, don’t feel bad if you haven’t or have just started doing the works to crate train your furry baby. This process can be a little complicated without the right information on how to crate train a dog , especially so if you are at work most hours during the day.

Before discussing essential steps on how to crate train a dog, let’s first discuss what crate and crate training is all about. A dog crate is not a dog prison. In fact, hundreds of years ago, dogs already have a developed instinct of wanting to be in small, cozy, sheltered area where they can feel safe, secure and comfortable. This instinct has been applied in the development of dog crates.

Animals also need their own space. Hence, it would not be difficult to attract your dog to enter his own, little den—his dog crate.

How to Crate Train a Dog When You Work

Crate training is highly endorsed by dog specialists such as behaviorists, groomers, trainers, veterinarians and even animal shelters. It has two purposes; to limit the dog’s access within the house and to train his bladder and bowel control. You will feel more at ease as you leave your dog for work when you know that you have successfully crate trained your dog. Here are easy ways and tips:

1. Before anything, you must first check if your dog feels comfortable going into a crate.

Most dogs enter their crate without applying force because naturally, they perceive crates as their own room in the house. However, there are dogs who feel anxious in confined spaces. If this is the case, you may need to find another option of potty training or you would need to try harder to attract your dog into the crane. To check if he could withstand the crane, put a treat just after the crane door and continue popping treats further into the crane until he willingly lets himself inside.

2. Let the dog adjust to the crate

The door should be open at all times or you may opt to remove it to avoid causing him alarm or stress. Letting him go in and out freely would be one way to assure that the crate is not a form of punishment. You must also make the crate look and feel comfortable to your dog. Spreading a nice bedding and putting his favorite toy inside would be a good idea.

3. Place the crate where you usually stay

The crate should not be a reason for him to become isolated. To help him feel secure and happy in his own space, your dog must still be able to communicate, play or watch over you even when he’s curled nice and comfy in his den.

4. Ask a neighbor, dog walker or pet sitter

You may think that how to crate train a dog when you work can be quite difficult. Dogs can hold their bladder for 3-4 hours. However, when you work full-time, you would need to find time to let your dog out to relieve himself. If that is not possible, ask a neighbor, dog walker or pet sitter to assist you. You can also choose to have an outdoor dog run or a litter box inside the house to guarantee that your dog has a place to do his business even when you’re not around.