01/24/2017
Hobbs Saint Bernards 2013
WHAT IS CRATE TRAINING? HOW CAN IT HELP HOUSEBREAK MY PUPPY?
You should follow all of the same instructions in the previous post entitled, " HOUSEBREAKING TIPS."
Now, here is where his crate comes into play. Your puppy should spend a lot of time in his crate. Anytime you cannot have 100% visual contact with your puppy, he should be in his crate. Think of your puppy as you would a toddler who just learned how to crawl. You wouldn't give a baby total roaming privileges of your home,no matter how child proof it is. Your puppy should not be able to roam freely without supervision.
His crate acts like a natural den or doghouse where he can be placed for his own protection. Most dogs will become accustomed to their crates and go in on their own when the door is left open.
The crate will aid in housebreaking. Most dogs will not defecate where they sleep,so as soon as you let him out of his "den",immediately take him outside to his "potty-place". If he does have an accident in his crate,clean it thoroughly with a pet-safe cleaner and wash any bedding that was dirtied. Never leave a messy crate. It will slow down your training.
If you catch your puppy in the act of eliminating in the house,never give a harsh correction. Interrupt him with a mild scold,scoop him up and take him outside. Then ask yourself, " why did he potty inside?" Were you not paying attention? Did you neglect to take him outside? Did you bring him inside too soon last time?Remember,it is more than likely not your puppy's fault.
Be patient with your puppy. The average dog will take up to six months or longer to become fully house trained.
The crate should never be used to punish your dog. A crate used correctly can be the most important and beneficial tool that you can use in helping you to "civilize" a young pup. Your possessions will be safe from him and he will be safe from them.
You can enjoy peace of mind when you leave him unattended,housebreak him more quickly,safely confine him,give him a safe haven from children or other pets,travel safely and know that he will be accepted almost anywhere bc you can guarantee that he won't be destructive.