Bedding must be provided in crate training.
Crate training is a controversial method of house training dogs, based on the knowledge that wild dogs sleep in underground burrows, leaving the den to relieve themselves. By confining a dog to a small pet crate while he is inside and taking him outside for disposal, the dog begins to associate the “outside” with waste.
The recommended crate size for crate training is roomy enough to accommodate the dog when it stands, turns, lies down, or sits. If the crate is much larger than that, supporters point out that the dog can relieve himself at one end.
There should always be water available inside the box.
It is vital that a dog is not left in a crate longer than his bladder or intestines. This is an area where crate training draws significant criticism, as it leaves the dog at the mercy of whoever is crate training. Non-professional dog handlers can abuse this method, leaving a dog in a crate while commuting to work or leaving the house for several hours.
Puppies have very little control over bodily functions. The number of hours a puppy can control her bladder is roughly equal to the number of months he is. For a one-month-old puppy, one hour; for a two-month-old puppy, two hours; but no dog should be left in a crate for more than four hours without a chance to exercise and relieve himself, assuming he shows no signs of discomfort beforehand.
Bedding or rubber mats should be provided in crate training, but avoid rugs or materials that a dog can tear and swallow as these can block the intestinal tract and be fatal. Safe toys should also be included to help keep the dog busy. Water should always be available inside the crate, and a dog should not be cooped up in the heat. Never use crate training to punish, as this creates negative associations with the crate.
When it’s time to take your dog out, use a trigger phrase that includes the dog’s name. For example, “Out of the bathroom? Does Jack want to go outside to the bathroom? Praise the dog generously as he eliminates, repeating the trigger phrase. “Get out of the potty! Good boy Jack! Once he associates the trigger phrase with this action, you can ask him, when you’re inside, if he needs to “go potty outside.”
Make sure the dog gets plenty of exercise. Avoid rocking the dog as soon as he eliminates, or he will learn that elimination marks the end of the game and he may hold his bladder when you release him. Instead, make recess or a walk the reward for relieving him outdoors.
Dogs usually have to relieve themselves throughout the morning, 15-20 minutes after meals, and during or after exercise, in addition to having the opportunity throughout the day. If the dog does not relieve itself when you take it outside, it is recommended to bring it in and put it in the crate for 5 to 10 minutes and then try again. Don’t assume the dog doesn’t have to go just because he wasn’t ready.
When crate training, it is vital to watch the dog for signs of discomfort. Illness, the introduction of a new food and medication are just a few of the circumstances that can cause the dog to need to eliminate more frequently. Crate training doesn’t mean you can lock the dog up and forget about it.
If a dog soils the crate, it is not the dog’s fault for not being sufficiently guarded. Don’t punish him, he won’t understand. This also applies to carpet accidents. Neutralize odors with vinegar or the dog can reuse the place. The key is to praise the dog for what he does well and to watch him closely enough to prevent accidents before they happen. If you see the dog sniffing or circling, clap your hands to distract him, take him outside and praise him while he relieves himself.
Some people report success in a matter of days with crate training, however it can take up to two weeks or more. Every dog is different with its own unique personality, but even an adult dog can be house trained. Some dogs with a history of abuse or neglect may take a little longer to build trust and process information. In all cases, be patient and loving when crate training.
Crate training advocates tend to think a crate is necessary, whereas a large number of dog owners never own or require a crate. Many dog lovers believe that crate training is cruel and easily abused. Well-meaning proponents argue that a box is no different from a natural underground burrow, but critics disagree. Wild dens accommodate multiple dogs, and dogs are always free to leave the den for their physical needs and exercise. Critics also point out that dogs are active, social, pack animals, and forcing a dog to remain separate in a small, confined space is not humane.
Crate training requires the handler to be home and attentive most of the time so the dog can be released when needed. Many dogs cry and bark when confined because separation and confinement are unnatural. Also, if the dog is going to live permanently in the house, crate training won’t teach him to use paper when necessary.
For all of these reasons and more, many animal lovers have chosen traditional dog training methods that they find more compassionate and less restrictive for both dog and owner.