Paws Positive Dog Training

02/01/2025

How Dogs Tell Time Through Scent 🐾

Ever wondered how your dog knows when it’s time for dinner, walkies, or when you’ll be home from work? While they don’t have a clock like we do, dogs are masters of something even cooler – they tell time through scent!

Here’s how it works:

Throughout the day, the smells in your home subtly change as time passes. Your scent, for example, lingers and fades after you leave the house. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell (up to 100,000 times stronger than ours), and they can detect these changes in scent intensity and composition.

💡 For example: If your dog notices that your scent reaches a certain “fade level” just before you usually return home, they can predict your arrival simply by sniffing the air.

It’s not just your scent they rely on. The smells of other household activities—like cooking, laundry, or even the garden—shift throughout the day, creating a kind of invisible “scent clock” your dog uses to anticipate events.

How You Can Use This Amazing Ability
1. Create routines: Dogs thrive on consistency, and their ability to “smell time” means they’ll start to anticipate events like feeding or walk times.
2. Use familiar scents for comfort: If you’re leaving your dog with a sitter or home boarder, leaving something with your scent on it (like an old T-shirt) can help them stay calm and feel connected to you.
3. Enrichment through scent games: Engage your dog’s amazing nose by hiding treats around the house or playing games like “find it.” It’s like giving their brain a workout!

Dogs truly experience the world in ways we can’t even imagine. Next time you catch your pup sitting by the door at the exact moment you’re due home, give them some credit—they’ve been “sniffing the clock” all day!

🐾 At Paws 4 a Break and Paws 4 a Day, we’re all about supporting your dog’s incredible senses. Whether it’s sniffari walks or enriching activities, we love watching their noses lead the way.

What other incredible things does your dog do that amaze you? Share below! 👇

27/12/2024

🎓 Welcome to Paws Positive Dog Training School Scout Levels Class! 🎓

Does your dog need some extra schooling, whether they’re fresh out of puppy school or looking to polish their skills at any age? Our Scout Levels classes are the perfect fit for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages.

🌟 Why Choose Scout Levels?
• Small class sizes for a personal touch.
• Work at your own pace—no pressure, just progress!
• Collect badges for your achievements, just like Scouts. 🏅
• Earn certificates along the way! 🎉
• Perfect for reinforcing training, boosting confidence, and strengthening your bond with your dog.

📅 Class Details:
• When: Saturday mornings at 10:30am
• Where: Paws 4 A Day Doggy Daycare School, Brampton Bierlow
• Cost: £15 per class

Stay as long as you like or as short as you need—whether you’re aiming to collect every badge or just want to complete Level 1, it’s entirely up to you.

The only rule: if you miss two classes, you’ll return to the waiting list to rejoin—commitment keeps the classes running smoothly!

Whether you’re mastering loose lead walking, perfecting your recall, or simply learning to relax and focus in a group, our positive, force-free approach ensures both you and your dog enjoy every step of the journey.

Register now -

🐾 Contact Us:
📞 Call us on 0788 5520818
🌐 Visit www.pawspositivedogtrainingschool.co.uk

Start collecting badges and certificates today! Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!

Happy training from Jane, your dog trainer!

22/12/2024

🎄 Puppies Aren’t Just for Christmas… They’re for Life! 🎄

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to talk about the joys—and responsibilities—of bringing a puppy into your home. While they might seem like the ultimate gift, it’s so important to remember that a puppy is a lifelong commitment, not just for Christmas morning.

Under the Animal Welfare Act, all dog owners have a legal responsibility to meet their pet’s needs. This means:
🐾 A suitable place to live – a safe, comfortable environment that supports their growth.
🐾 The right diet – appropriate food and water to keep them healthy.
🐾 Opportunities to express natural behaviours – like chewing, sniffing, and playing.
🐾 Companionship – quality time with people or other dogs, depending on their needs.
🐾 Protection from pain, suffering, injury, or disease – regular vet visits and proper care.

Owning a puppy is incredibly rewarding, but it’s also a lot of work. They require:
✔️ Training to teach them how to thrive in the human world.
✔️ Time, patience, and consistency to help them grow into happy, confident dogs.
✔️ Financial investment for food, toys, vet care, and more.

If you’ve already welcomed a puppy into your home or plan to do so this Christmas, Paws Positive Dog Training is here to help! Our rolling Life Skills Puppy Course restarts on Saturday, 4th January. This course is for puppies aged from after their vaccinations up to 24 weeks old.

You can enrol on any Saturday after this date (subject to availability) and begin the 8-week course, designed to:
✔️ Give you the tools to train and bond with your puppy.
✔️ Teach your puppy important life skills that set them up for success.
✔️ Build a strong, positive relationship between you and your dog.

To book your spot, simply contact us to complete a registration form and get started on the right paw!

Puppies are for life—and we’re here to support you every step of the way with training that builds confidence, creates a strong bond, and sets your pup up for success.

💚 Wishing you and your furry friends a very merry Christmas and a pawsome start to the new year!

17/12/2024

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie – Even at Christmas! 🎄🐾

Christmas is a magical (and often chaotic!) time of year for us humans – guests visiting, excited children, delivery drivers at the door, noisy toys, and festive meals galore. But for our dogs, all this extra excitement can be exhausting.

Just like us, dogs need plenty of rest to stay happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Sleep is when their bodies recover, their minds process the day, and all that festive energy gets recharged for another day of fun.

How Much Sleep Does Your Dog Need?
•Puppies: 🐾 18-20 hours a day – all that growing and learning is hard work!

•Adult Dogs: 🐾 12-14 hours a day – they might nap between festive walks, cuddles, and snacks.

•Senior Dogs: 🐾 14-18 hours a day – older dogs need more downtime to feel their best.

Why Sleep is Even More Important at Christmas

With the festive hustle and bustle, dogs can become overstimulated, overtired, and overwhelmed. This can lead to:
• Increased barking and restlessness.
• Hyperactivity or impulsive behaviour.
• Struggles with focus and emotional regulation.

At Paws 4 A Break and Paws 4 A Day, we understand how crucial rest is, especially during busy periods. That’s why we build calm rest sessions into every day. Here’s what we do – and what you can do at home:

•Create a Calm Space: Dim the lights, play soft classical music, and ensure a quiet environment for naps.

•Encourage Downtime: After a morning walk or enrichment games, give your dog time to wind down before meals. We encourage rest before and after dinner to help prevent issues like bloat (check our earlier post on this!).

•Meet Their Needs First: Ensure they’ve had a walk, some sniffari time, a drink, and maybe a little enrichment before encouraging them to settle.

Let Sleeping Dogs Lie 🎅

It’s tempting to give your snoozing pooch a cuddle or show them off to guests, but waking a sleeping dog can interrupt critical REM sleep – the deep, restorative stage when their brains recharge, and their dreams play out (those twitching paws are perfectly normal!). Sleep is when learning and emotional processing happen, so don’t rob them of this festive “reboot.”

Christmas Sleep Tips for Your Dog 🎄
1. Make a Safe Zone: A quiet room, cosy crate, or soft bed where they won’t be disturbed by guests or noisy toys.
2. Keep Routine in Mind: Dogs thrive on consistency, so stick to regular walks, meals, and nap times where possible.
3. Wind Them Down: Use calming enrichment like Licki Mats or sniffing games to help them relax after all the excitement.
4. Monitor Stress Levels: Christmas can be overwhelming for dogs – if they seem restless, give them time away to decompress.

At Paws 4 A Break and Paws 4 A Day, we ensure every dog gets the perfect balance of play, training, cuddles, and downtime. Rest is just as important as exercise and enrichment, especially when life gets busy.

So, while you’re tucking into your Christmas dinner or unwrapping gifts, let your dog enjoy their nap – they’ll wake up refreshed, relaxed, and ready to join in the festive fun later.

Wishing you and your dogs a restful, joyful, and paw-some Christmas! 🐾🎄
Jane, your dog trainer
Paws 4 A Break | Paws 4 A Day | Paws Positive Dog Training

08/12/2024

Is your dog a champion chewer? 🐾

Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs – it soothes them, helps with teething, and sometimes just passes the time. But when chewing becomes inappropriate (like when your favourite pair of shoes mysteriously vanish into the jaws of destruction), it’s time to take a closer look at what’s going on.

Let’s break it down:

👉 Pain Relief: Puppies, in particular, often chew to relieve teething pain. Their little mouths can feel sore as their teeth come through, so they’re on the lookout for something to gnaw on. To help them out (and save your table legs), try offering something cold to chew on – a frozen Kong, damp cloth popped in the freezer, or even specific puppy teething toys designed for this purpose. The cold helps soothe their gums, directing their chewing away from your furniture and onto something more appropriate.

Older dogs can also chew due to dental discomfort or pain. If this seems to be the case, have a chat with your vet to rule out any dental issues.

👉 Boredom: Dogs who lack mental and physical enrichment may turn to chewing anything they can find – furniture, shoes, you name it. If they’re left alone for long periods, this can spiral into chaos.

👉 Habit: Here’s where things get interesting. Sometimes, without meaning to, we create little chewing machines. We give puppies chew toys (which they need, of course!), but if that’s the only type of enrichment we offer as they grow, chewing becomes their default go-to behaviour.

👉 Stress Relief: Chewing can be a way for dogs to self-soothe when they’re anxious or overwhelmed. If your dog tends to chew when the house is busy or when left alone, it might be worth exploring the root of their anxiety.

So, what can you do?

🧠 Mix things up! Dogs need variety to thrive. While chews can be brilliant, they’re just one piece of the enrichment puzzle. Try scent-based games (a good sniffari can work wonders), puzzle feeders, lick mats, or even basic training games to engage their brain.

💡 The key is balance – physical exercise, mental stimulation, and activities that tap into your dog’s natural instincts will help channel their chewing energy in the right direction.

And remember, chewing isn’t “naughty.” It’s often a clue to what your dog needs.

Have fun experimenting with new activities – your dog will thank you for it! 🐶

If you’re looking for more ideas or support, feel free to reach out to us at Paws Positive Dog Training. Let’s turn those chewed-up slippers into happy, enriched dogs!

Happy training,
Jane, your dog trainer

04/12/2024

🎄 Dogs Are For Life, Not Just For Christmas 🎄

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to address an important topic: dogs are not presents. They’re living, breathing, feeling beings that deserve more than to be an impulsive Christmas gift. Owning a dog is a lifelong commitment—not just a few weeks of excitement over the festive season.

Before You Consider Getting a Dog This Christmas, Ask Yourself:

🐾 Have I done my research?
Every breed has unique needs and characteristics. What was the breed originally bred for? For example, a Border Collie thrives on mental stimulation and physical activity, while a French Bulldog may prefer a quieter life. Can you meet those needs?

🐾 Do I have the time?
Dogs, especially puppies, require a lot of attention. Training, socialisation, exercise, and enrichment take time and effort. If you work long hours, have you thought about options like daycare or dog walkers? Relying on family or friends isn’t always sustainable—situations can change.

🐾 Can I afford it?
Owning a dog isn’t cheap. Here’s a breakdown of some common costs:
• Food: Small breeds may eat less, but large breeds can cost a small fortune.
• Vet fees: Even with insurance, there will be regular vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, and potential emergencies.
• Training: A good trainer is an investment in your dog’s wellbeing and your family’s harmony.
• Equipment: Leads, collars, harnesses, beds, crates, toys, and enrichment tools all add up.
• Daycare or walking services: Essential if you can’t be home during the day.

🐾 Do I have the space?
Your living environment matters. A Great Dane in a tiny flat may not be the best fit, while a smaller dog may adapt better to limited space. Also, consider if you’re prepared for a dog’s potential to dig up the garden, chew the furniture, or shed fur everywhere.

🐾 Am I physically able to care for a dog?
Dogs need regular exercise—some breeds more than others. Are you fit enough to provide the level of activity your chosen breed requires?

🐾 Am I ready to commit for 10+ years?
Dogs live for a decade or more. Will you still have the time, resources, and energy for a dog in the future as your circumstances change?

Dogs Are Not Toys for Children

If you’re thinking of getting a dog “for the kids,” remember: it’s the adults who bear the responsibility. Children may lose interest, and the novelty of a puppy wears off quickly when they grow into adolescent dogs with big personalities. Training is a family effort, and everyone in the home needs to be on the same page.

Before You Buy or Adopt, Consider This Alternative:

If your heart is set on a furry friend for Christmas, why not gift your family a doggy promise instead? Plan the decision carefully together as a family after the holidays. Spend time visiting shelters, learning about breeds, and preparing your home.

If you’re ready for a dog, great! If not, consider supporting a local shelter or sponsoring a rescue dog this Christmas. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate the season while helping dogs in need.

Remember: Dogs are a privilege, not a right. They’re family members, not gifts, and they deserve to be treated as such. This Christmas, let’s spread the message loud and clear:

Dogs are for life, not just for Christmas.

🐾 From all of us at Paws Positive Dog Training, Paws 4 A Break Paws 4 A Day Happy Christmas —and happy planning for your future furry family member! 🐾
The graphic below is one I have shared before and is not mine but I believe very poignant.

14/11/2024

Why Continued Learning Matters for Your Dog’s Wellbeing

At Paws positive dog training, we’re passionate about staying up-to-date to give your pets the best possible care.

The pet care industry is constantly evolving, and ongoing education helps us bring fresh insights and techniques back into everything we do.

Next week, I’ll be heading off again this time down to the ABK conference in Kent which includes some amazing speakers from both this country and internationally from Friday to Monday, investing once again in furthering my CPD.

Every bit of knowledge I gain there, will come back to help not only myself but also our teams across all three of our businesses.

Why Is This Important for You as a Pet Owner?

1. Enhanced Understanding and Compassion: Conferences and workshops allow us to dive deeper into dog behaviour, ensuring we understand your pet’s needs and signals better than ever.

2. Safer, More Enriching Experiences: With new techniques, we can offer activities that engage dogs both mentally and physically – perfect for high-energy dogs who love a challenge!

3. Continuous Improvement for Comfort and Care: We’re always evaluating our practices to ensure our services remain top-notch for you and your pet.

For fellow pet care providers – whether you’re a dog walker, boarder, sitter or part of a dog daycare – ongoing education lifts the standard of care across the board. When we keep learning, we offer our clients and their pets more peace of mind, compassion, and quality.

So next time you see a pet care provider attending a seminar or sharing something new, know that it’s part of a commitment to excellence. At Paws Positive Dog Training, we’re excited to keep bringing back the best for your pets.

If you have questions or want to learn more about our approach, don’t hesitate to reach out. And to my fellow dog walkers day care centres trainers and boarders, feel free to share this post to show your clients your dedication to learning too!

I will look forward to sharing posts about my trip to Kent.

13/11/2024

Run don’t walk - the Tug-E-Nuff Black Friday Sale is here. 🥳💨

This is always the absolute best deal on the absolutely best dog toys in the world - so don’t snooze!

As a Tug-E-Nuff partner, I get to reward YOU with 3 for 2 on all their award winning toys!

>>> Ready, set, GO! 👇

https://tug-e-nuff.com/collections/black-friday?ref=PAWS4ABREAK

You can choose any 3 toys and simply pay for 2 - then sit back and wait for the postie.

Your dog’s tail is going to go bananas for their special delivery…

Or, you could be sensible and hold them back for Christmas morning. You decide! 🤪

Shop now >>> https://tug-e-nuff.com/collections/black-friday?ref=PAWS4ABREAK

Save BIG in our most bonkers sale of the year (plus bag exclusive black friday deals for purchasers.) These toys are set to be your dog’s all time favs.

12/11/2024

🎄 It’s that time of year when the delivery driver practically knows us by name—if you’re anything like me, you’re probably thinking you should own shares in Amazon! With all the holiday shopping, we’re in for a steady stream of posties and parcel deliveries. While it’s exciting for us, for our dogs, it might mean more barking, excitement, or worry with every knock on the door.

Here are some simple tips to help keep things calm for your dog (and stress-free for our delivery folks!) this Christmas:

1.Holiday Chews & Treats 🎁: If you know a delivery’s on its way (many couriers send alerts now), set your dog up in a cosy spot with something special to keep them busy—a Licki Mat, snuffle mat, or a long-lasting chew. Licking, chewing, and sniffing help dogs feel calm and content, perfect for keeping them occupied when someone’s at the door.

2. Track and Pre-empt the Delivery 📦: Many deliveries can now be tracked right down to the moment they reach your street. If it’s a smaller parcel, why not leave your dog inside, pop out to meet the delivery driver at the gate, and collect the parcel yourself? This way, your dog doesn’t even know the delivery’s happened—it’s just you stepping out and back in again.

3. Garden Safety First 🌲: If your dog enjoys time in the garden, make sure they’re safe when the postie arrives. Either be outside to supervise, have a lock on the gate, or bring your dog indoors if you know a delivery’s due. It keeps everyone safe and prevents accidental escapes or misunderstandings!

4. Build a Bond 🐾: If you’ve got a regular postie, consider a little treat pot by the door! Letting your dog see the postie as a friend can work wonders, especially for puppies or nervous dogs. The postie can toss a treat to help your dog feel calm and positive about these visits.

5. Teach Calm at the Door 🎅: If door manners are an ongoing struggle, this season is a great time to work on them. Teaching your dog to make the right choice—to remain calm at the threshold, without needing cues—can make all the difference. By rewarding them for choosing to stay back and not rewarding them for crossing the line, your dog can learn to manage this boundary themselves, no matter who’s at the door. And if you need support, Paws Positive Dog Training is always here to help with door manners!

6. Festive Peace for All ✨: Our delivery heroes work hard, especially at Christmas. With a little planning and a festive treat or two, we can make this season calm and happy for everyone.

Happy training (and happy shopping!) from Jane at Paws Positive Dog Training Paws 4 A Break and Paws 4 A Day 🐾

27/10/2024

Ditch the Retractable! Safer Options for Walking Your Dog

Did you know that retractable leads can be more than just a poor choice for training? They can actually be dangerous for you and your dog!

Why Retractable Leads Encourage Pulling (and Make Loose Lead Training Near Impossible):
If your dog already has a tendency to pull, a retractable lead can make it worse. Here’s why: the mechanics of a retractable lead essentially reward pulling by letting the dog move further away when they tug on the lead. This teaches them that pulling = more freedom, so they’re likely to do it more, even if they’re back on a regular lead!

And when it comes to teaching loose lead walking, a retractable lead is near impossible to work with. Because the lead is always taut, your dog has no clear way of knowing when it’s tight or loose, which is the foundation of good loose lead training. Without this feedback, they simply can’t learn that staying close to you is what keeps the lead slack. At Paws Positive Dog Training, we focus on positive reinforcement methods that teach your dog how to walk comfortably by your side on a standard lead, creating a safer and more enjoyable walk for both of you.

The Danger of Distance:
Many retractable leads extend over 20 feet, and while this may feel like it gives your dog a bit of freedom, it can also put them out of your reach when they need you most. Imagine your dog is 20 feet away, and a stray animal suddenly appears. Now you’re not only too far away to help, but the thin line of the retractable lead makes it hard to pull them back without getting some serious rope burn on your hands! For regular walks, Paws for a Break recommends standard leads, which provide much better control and safety for both you and your dog.

A Drop Could Spell Disaster:
If your dog can be skittish, retractable leads bring their own risks. Say you accidentally drop the lead – the clunky housing can make a loud thud, and as it bounces behind your dog, it might scare them into bolting. It’s not uncommon for dogs to go missing because they’re trying to “escape” the scary noise trailing behind them!

Risky for Both Ends of the Lead:
Retractable leads don’t just pose risks for your dog – they can be dangerous for you as well. Dogs running full speed to the end of a retractable lead have been known to suffer neck injuries, collapsed tracheas, or even spinal damage. And if that thin line snaps, it can whip back and cause painful injuries. Owners grabbing the line in a panic can also end up with deep cuts or even severed fingers.

Why Paws for a Day Banned Retractable Leads:
At Paws for a Day School, we’ve banned the use of retractable leads when dogs are dropped off and picked up. Our car park opens directly onto a main road, and peak times for pick-up and drop-off coincide with busy traffic hours. If the brake on a retractable lead were to fail or if the dog pulled the lead out of the owner’s hand, they could end up on the road in seconds. Standard leads offer much better control and ensure the safety of our dogs, especially in high-risk areas like our school car park.

So, What’s the Alternative?

Long Lines – A Safer Option, with a Learning Curve
For those who want to give their dog some freedom while still maintaining control, long lines are a much better option. These sturdy leads (available in lengths of 10, 15, or even 30 feet) allow your dog to explore a bit further while keeping them safe. But, like any tool, they come with their own quirks to consider.

1. Practice Before Using: A long line can be a great tool, but it takes some skill to handle. Before you attach one to your dog, practice taking it in and letting it out smoothly. Knowing how to handle the line will make walks safer and more enjoyable.
2. Rope Burn Precautions: Just like retractable leads, long lines can cause rope burn if you grab them without thinking. I recommend wearing gloves when handling a long line, especially if your dog is a bit of a runner. This simple step can prevent burns and give you better control.
3. Dragging for Better Recall: One of the great things about a long line is that it can trail on the ground behind your dog. If you’re practising recall and they don’t come back, simply step on the line to stop them in their tracks. However, make sure that the long line is always attached to a harness, never a collar. This way, if you do need to stop them abruptly, there’s no risk of neck injury.
4. Learning to Manage Length: Because long lines can easily get tangled or snagged, it’s a good idea to practise shortening the line quickly when needed. This helps in busy areas or when passing other dogs and keeps you in control.

Bottom Line: Safety Over Convenience
While retractable leads may seem convenient, they bring too many risks for daily walks. A traditional lead or a properly used long line provides safety, control, and structure. With a bit of practice, long lines offer a safe way to give your dog that extra freedom they love – without putting you or them in harm’s way.

Keep it safe and simple – for you and your dog’s wellbeing!

22/10/2024

Bonfire Night is fast approaching, and I’ve noticed a few posts and comments here about concerns for our dogs during this stressful time. 🎆

If your dog struggles with fear and anxiety around fireworks, don’t worry—you’re not alone! I’ve put together a free e-book that covers why dogs are frightened by fireworks and, most importantly, what you can do to help. Inside, you’ll find tips on how to prepare your dog in advance, ways to comfort them during the event, and even some fun games to reduce stress. I’ve also included recommendations for products that can make the night more bearable for your furry friend.

You can download it here https://drive.google.com/file/d/19y5Pey7deE9zK5JDw87GbJJHwA5MqA4m/view?usp=drive_link

Let’s make this year’s Firework Night a little less worrying for both us and our beloved dogs! Please feel free to share it among family and friends.
If you need any further 1-1 help please contact me on 07885520818

Thanks

Jane the dog trainer/ behavioural consultant 🐾

20/10/2024

Crates are like marmite you either love them or hate them and there is a big divide. I think crate training is needed even if you don’t intend to use them regularly and heres how and why -

Crate Training: A Positive Approach

Crate training isn’t just about confinement; it’s about creating a safe, secure environment for your dog. Many owners find crates invaluable when it comes to recovery from injury, travelling, or providing a place to rest. Imagine your dog has an injury and needs strict rest—without a crate, keeping them calm and still can be nearly impossible. I’ve had clients with energetic, large breeds who, after surgery, relied on crate training to help their dogs recover in a calm, safe environment. With enrichment like a Kong or Licki Mat, their dogs stayed occupied without overexerting themselves, allowing the healing process to progress smoothly.

Crates are also the safest option for travelling with your dog. Whether it’s a short trip or a long holiday drive, a crate provides both safety and comfort for your dog, ensuring they are secure in the car.

Breaking the Myths: Crate Training Isn’t Cruel

One of the biggest misconceptions is that crate training is cruel or like imprisoning your dog. In reality, a well-trained dog sees the crate as their personal haven. Overuse can certainly be an issue, but when used correctly, crates become a place of comfort. The key is to balance crate time and ensure it’s always a positive experience, not a form of punishment.

How to Positively Introduce Your Puppy to a Crate – Step-by-Step

• Start Slowly: Place the crate in a quiet, comfortable space where your puppy spends time. Leave the door open and allow them to explore it at their own pace.

• Make it Inviting: Add a soft blanket and a favourite toy. Begin placing treats inside, letting your puppy investigate and discover that good things happen in the crate.

• Mealtime in the Crate: Start feeding your puppy in the crate. This builds a positive association with the crate, linking it to food. When the meal is in the crate, they’ll naturally gravitate towards it.

• Build Duration Gradually: Once your puppy is comfortable, you can start closing the door for short periods while they’re busy with something enjoyable, like eating or playing with a Kong filled with treats.
• Enrichment in the Crate: Introduce enrichment
activities like Kongs, Licki Mats, or chew toys inside the crate. Over time, your puppy will see the crate as a positive space full of rewarding activities.

• Avoid Reinforcing Bad Habits: If your puppy comes out of the crate and no longer has access to the fun or tasty things inside, they’ll quickly learn that staying in the crate means more rewards. It’s their choice, and that makes it even more valuable to them.

Fun Crate Game: The “Food Prison”

This is one of my favourite crate games! It’s simple, fun, and really encourages your dog to *want* to be in the crate. Here’s how it works:

1. Place something your dog absolutely loves inside the crate—maybe some warm steak, fish, or their favourite toy.
2. Close the crate door with the reward inside. Naturally, your dog will be eager to get in, trying to find a way. They’ll sniff around, scratch, and work out how to get to the prize.
3. After a little while, open the crate door, and your dog will shoot inside to claim their reward. Repeat this process, and soon your dog will associate the crate with all things good, realising that the crate is the gateway to amazing things!

Choosing the Right Crate for Your Puppy
When selecting a crate, ensure it’s just big enough for your puppy to lie comfortably, stretch, and turn around. If the crate is too large, especially for young puppies, they might find a corner to use as a toilet, which is something we definitely want to avoid. If you’re investing in a larger crate for when your puppy grows, make sure it comes with a divider so you can adjust the space as they develop.

For strong, energetic breeds (especially the Chewie Bitey types), metal crates are a must—they’re durable and safe. Fabric crates may be suitable for smaller, calmer dogs, but for most puppies, a sturdy metal crate is the best choice.

Another great tip for helping your dog feel safe in the crate is to cover it with a blanket or a purpose-made crate cover. This creates a den-like atmosphere, mimicking the natural instincts of dogs to seek out dark, enclosed spaces like dens. Covering the crate can help your dog relax, switch off, and even drift off to sleep more easily, as the environment becomes dark and cosy.

Crate Training Don’ts: What to Avoid

• Don’t Drag Your Puppy into the Crate: The crate should never feel like a place of force. Dragging your puppy in will only create negative associations, making them resist the crate. Always let them go in willingly by using encouragement, rewards, and positive reinforcement.

• Never Use the Crate as Punishment: It can be tempting to send a dog to their crate when you’re frustrated, but this can create a bad association. Dogs, especially puppies, are often just displaying normal dog behaviour—they aren’t being naughty. Using the crate as a punishment may cause them to feel anxious or fearful, which is the opposite of what we want.

• Don’t Place the Crate in Busy, Noisy Areas: If the crate is placed in a room where there’s lots of activity—children playing, people moving around—it becomes very hard for your puppy to relax. Choose a calm, quiet spot where they can rest peacefully without distractions.

• Ensure the Crate Itself is Quiet: A crate that creaks, rattles, or has flapping parts can easily startle your puppy. Make sure the crate is stable and quiet so that when they move around inside, it doesn’t create unexpected noises that might scare them.

• Don’t Ignore Whining or Crying: If your puppy cries or whines, don’t just leave them to 'tough it out.' When you return to the crate, they will likely quiet down as soon as they see you. In these moments, you can offer emotional support by gently putting your hand through the crate. If you feel they need to come out, you can open the door and let them out calmly.

Crates in Emergencies: Why Early Crate Training Helps

While crates are a great tool for everyday use, they’re also invaluable in emergencies. If your dog has an accident and needs to stay overnight at the vet, or if there’s a situation at home where you need to pop your dog in a crate, having them used to the crate will prevent added stress. However, we don’t want crate training to only happen in these urgent moments. If your dog isn’t familiar with the crate outside of emergencies, they’ll still find it stressful.

Make sure to periodically put your dog in the crate for short periods, using all the positive reinforcement techniques, so they remain comfortable. Just remember, a dog shouldn’t be left in a crate with the door locked for more than three to four hours, unless it’s overnight and you’re letting your puppy out to toilet. Setting an alarm to get up before they wake is a great way to prevent accidents and help them settle back to sleep quickly.

If you need help with crate training or any other behavioural issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Paws Positive Dog Training. We’re here to support you and your dog, and you can contact us on 0788 5520 818 for advice or training sessions.

I hope this guide really helps you with crate training your puppy! Share this post with anyone who might benefit from it.

Happy training from Jane, your dog trainer. 🐕‍🦺