Jan 19, 2016 | Puppy Training
When training your puppy or dog, the tool you use should be efficient and effective. Just as importantly, the way you use that tool should be clear, consistent, and humane.
There are many different dog training collars and leash tools available, and each one provides information to the dog in a different way. The right tool can make training clearer, while the wrong tool can make communication confusing or ineffective.
Dog Training Collars: Choosing the Right One
This post is not about discussing one specific collar or tool. In training, different dogs may need different tools depending on their behaviour, size, sensitivity, goals, and the handler’s skill level.
At The Crunchy Canine, we may use a variety of training collars depending on the dog and the training plan. The point is not that one tool is perfect for every dog. The point is that the tool should help you communicate clearly and fairly.
Training Tools Should Provide Information
When training your dog, your leash and training collar should help provide information. They should help your dog understand what is being asked and how to respond.
How clear that information is depends on several things:
- The training tool being used
- The handler’s timing
- The handler’s skill level
- The dog’s understanding of the training
- The consistency of the communication
A training collar is not a magic solution. It only works well when it is introduced properly and used with good timing, clear expectations, and fair handling.
The Right Tool Can Make Training More Effective
Think about building a wooden box.
You could try to build it with a dull hand saw, some nails, and a rock. You may eventually get the job done, but it would likely be slow, messy, and frustrating.
Now imagine using a table saw and a drill. You can cut straighter lines, work more efficiently, and build something cleaner and stronger.
Dog training tools can be viewed the same way. The wrong tool may still get some results, but it may not be efficient, clear, or effective. The right tool, used properly, can make the training process smoother for both the dog and the owner.
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The Tool Is Only Part of the Equation
Some people can train a dog with very little equipment because they have years of experience, excellent timing, and strong handling skills. However, most dog owners benefit from using tools that help make communication clearer.
That does not mean a tool should be used harshly or carelessly. It means the tool should support the training, not replace good training.
Tools Can Be Used Correctly or Incorrectly
Some training collars may look intimidating to people who are unfamiliar with them. A common example is the prong collar.
Like many tools, a training collar can be used incorrectly or even with the intent to cause pain. But that comes down to the person holding the leash, not the tool itself.
A table saw and drill can also be dangerous if used incorrectly. But when used properly, they help build something strong, useful, and beautiful.
The same idea applies to dog training collars. When used properly, fairly, and humanely, the right tool can help create clearer communication and better training results.
Choosing the Right Dog Training Collar
The right training collar depends on the dog in front of you and the training goals you are working toward.
Before choosing a tool, consider:
- Your dog’s size and strength
- Your dog’s temperament and sensitivity
- Your dog’s current training level
- The behaviour you are trying to improve
- Your own handling skills
- Whether you have proper guidance on how to use the tool
If you are unsure what tool is appropriate for your dog, it is best to work with a knowledgeable trainer who can show you how to use it clearly and safely.
When Your Current Tool Is Not Working
If the tool you are using is giving you frustrating, unclear, or messy results, it may be time to reconsider your approach.
Sometimes the issue is the tool. Sometimes the issue is timing, consistency, or the training plan. Often, it is a combination of all three.
The goal should always be clear communication, better understanding, and humane training.
Need Help Choosing the Right Training Tool?
If you are struggling with leash manners, pulling, reactivity, obedience, or general behaviour, structured training can help you choose the right tool and learn how to use it properly.
Our dog training programs can help you find the right training option for your dog’s needs.
For dogs who need one-on-one support with leash skills, behaviour concerns, impulse control, or training tools, our Private Training programs may be the best fit.
If your dog is ready to learn around other dogs and people in a structured environment, our Group Classes can help improve focus and obedience around distractions.
For dogs who need healthy outlets for energy and confidence, Agility, Scent Detection, or structured Day Camp may also be helpful options.
Book a Consultation
Dog training collars are tools. They are not good or bad on their own. What matters is how they are chosen, introduced, and used.
The right tool, used clearly and humanely, can help you communicate more effectively with your dog. The wrong tool, or the right tool used poorly, can create confusion and frustration.
If your current training tool is giving you dull-saw-and-rock results, it may be time to get professional help and find a clearer, more effective approach.
Contact us today if you would like help choosing the right training plan and tools for your dog.
Happy Training!
Katherine
FAQ:
What is the best dog training collar?
The best dog training collar depends on the dog, the behaviour being trained, the handler’s skill level, and the training goals. There is no single tool that is right for every dog.
Are dog training collars humane?
Dog training collars can be humane when they are chosen appropriately, introduced properly, and used clearly and fairly. Any tool can be misused, so proper guidance matters.
Can a training collar fix pulling?
A training collar may help provide clearer communication, but it does not replace training. Dogs still need to be taught leash manners, focus, and how to respond to pressure or guidance.
Should I use a training collar without professional help?
If you are unsure how to use a tool correctly, it is best to work with a qualified trainer. Proper timing, fit, and technique are important for safe and effective training.
Why does the right training tool matter?
The right tool can make communication clearer and training more efficient. The wrong tool may make training harder, slower, or more confusing for both the dog and owner.
Jan 18, 2016 | Puppy Training
When it comes to house training your puppy, the most important things to remember are patience and consistency.
House training can be simple when you follow a clear plan. However, if you skip steps, you may slow down the process and see delays in your puppy’s progress.
Also remember that puppies are puppies. They will make mistakes, and so will you. If your training is going well and your puppy suddenly has an accident, take a moment to think about whether a step was missed that day. Most puppy accidents are human error and can be prevented with better management.
House Training Your Puppy in 4 Easy Steps
Puppy house training works best when you manage your puppy’s environment, supervise closely, use a crate properly, and get your puppy outside before accidents happen.
Here are four easy steps to help your puppy learn where to potty.
1. Be Reasonable With Your Expectations
Puppies are growing, and so are their bladders. It is important to be realistic about how long your puppy can hold it.
Until around 6 months of age, puppies should not be expected to hold their bladder for long periods of time. They need frequent potty breaks, and you will be able to increase the time gradually as they get older and their bladder develops.
If you are gone all day, you should expect accidents when you get home unless you have a proper plan in place. Puppies need supervision, structure, and realistic expectations.
2. Limit Your Puppy’s Access
Puppies often have accidents by running into another room and eliminating where you cannot see them. By the time you find the mess, it is too late to correct the behaviour fairly.
Reprimanding a puppy after the fact is useless and unfair because the puppy will not understand what they are being corrected for.
For the next couple of weeks, keep your puppy tethered to you with a leash and collar when they are out of the crate. You can attach the leash to your waist with a belt or carabiner, or simply hold the leash handle.
If your puppy is attached to you, you can catch them before or during the act. If you see your puppy about to have an accident, interrupt them, then get them outside right away.
When your puppy eliminates outside, praise them. Make it very clear that going outside is the behaviour you want.
3. Anticipate Potty Breaks Before Accidents Happen
Do not wait until your puppy is already having an accident. Be proactive.
If you know your puppy usually needs to go about 30 minutes after eating or drinking, take them outside after 20 minutes. Get them outside before they even think about going in the house.
Over time, you will be able to extend the time between potty breaks as your puppy learns to hold it. But in the beginning, stay on top of the schedule.
If three hours go by and your puppy has not asked to go out and has not had an accident, take them outside anyway. When they eliminate outside, praise and reward them.
4. Crate Train Your Puppy
If you are not already crate training your puppy, get a properly sized crate.
The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It should not be so large that your puppy can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another.
Moving forward, if you are not home or cannot keep your eyes on your puppy, crate them. A crate is one of the most useful tools for house training because it helps prevent accidents when you cannot supervise.
If you need help with crate training, our Private Training programs can help you build a plan that works for your puppy and your home.
Book a Consultation
Food and Water Management
It can also help to manage your puppy’s access to food and water when you know they are going to be left alone.
Do not leave food or water in the crate unless your veterinarian has advised otherwise. If your puppy is going to be crated or left alone, try to limit access to food and water for about an hour before you leave.
Leaving a puppy alone with a full belly and bladder can lead to accidents.
Common House Training Mistakes
If your puppy is struggling with house training, one of these common mistakes may be slowing progress:
- Giving the puppy too much freedom too soon
- Not supervising closely enough
- Not using a properly sized crate
- Waiting too long between potty breaks
- Correcting after the accident has already happened
- Not rewarding outdoor potty breaks clearly
- Expecting a young puppy to hold it too long
House training is usually much easier when you prevent accidents instead of reacting after they happen.
Need Help With Puppy Training?
House training is one of the first big lessons your puppy needs to learn, but it is only one part of raising a well-mannered dog.
Our dog training programs can help you choose the right option for your puppy’s needs.
For puppies who need one-on-one support with house training, crate training, biting, jumping, leash skills, or basic obedience, our Private Training programs may be the best fit.
If your puppy is ready to learn around other dogs and people, our Group Classes can help build focus, confidence, and manners in a structured setting.
For dogs who need more routine and structured activity during the day, our Day Camp may also be a helpful option.
Book a Consultation
House training your puppy does not need to be complicated, but it does require consistency.
Be reasonable with your expectations, limit your puppy’s access, anticipate potty breaks, and use a properly sized crate. If you follow these steps and stay consistent, your puppy will have a much better chance of success.
Contact us today if you need help with house training, crate training, or building better puppy habits from the start.
Happy Training!
Katherine
FAQ:
How do I start house training my puppy?
Start by supervising your puppy closely, limiting access inside the house, taking your puppy outside frequently, rewarding outdoor potty breaks, and using a properly sized crate when you cannot supervise.
How long can a puppy hold their bladder?
Young puppies cannot hold their bladder for long periods. Until around 6 months of age, puppies usually need frequent potty breaks and should not be expected to hold it for too long.
Should I correct my puppy after an accident?
No. Correcting after the fact is unfair and ineffective because the puppy will not understand. Focus on better supervision and getting your puppy outside before accidents happen.
Does crate training help with house training?
Yes. A properly sized crate can help prevent accidents when you cannot supervise because most puppies do not want to eliminate where they sleep.
Why does my puppy keep having accidents in another room?
Your puppy likely has too much freedom too soon. Limit access by tethering your puppy to you, blocking off rooms, or using the crate when you cannot watch them closely.
Jan 15, 2016 | Puppy Training
What does puppy socialization really mean?
When people get a new puppy or dog, they are often told, “You need to socialize them right away.” While that advice is well-intentioned, many people misunderstand what socialization actually means.
Somewhere along the way, puppy socialization became associated with taking a puppy to the dog park and putting them around as many dogs as possible. But that is not the best way to build a confident, well-rounded dog.
Puppy Socialization Is More Than Dog Parks
I love the idea of a dog park in theory. Dogs running off leash, enjoying the company of other dogs and people sounds wonderful.
Unfortunately, many dogs who should not be at the dog park are there regularly. Many owners do not know what to look for in healthy dog-to-dog interaction. Many dogs are not being advocated for, and many owners may not know when they should step in.
This can lead to dogs being bullied, dog fights, over-aroused behaviour, humping, chaos, and puppies leaving the park more fearful or insecure than when they arrived.
Why Dog Parks Can Be Risky for Puppies
A puppy’s early experiences matter. One bad experience can affect a puppy for a long time.
Many dogs who become reactive, fearful, or dog-aggressive were not necessarily born that way. Often, there was at least one negative experience that contributed to the behaviour. In many cases, owners can point to the exact event that changed how their dog felt about other dogs.
That is why dog parks are not always worth the risk, especially for puppies or dogs who are still building confidence.
Book a Consultation
What Puppy Socialization Should Actually Mean
Socialization should be productive, positive, and controlled.
Yes, getting your puppy around other dogs is important. However, it should be around the right dogs. Your puppy should meet calm, stable, appropriate dogs who can help create good experiences, not overwhelm or bully them.
Good socialization is not about flooding your puppy with as many dogs, people, sounds, and places as possible. It is about helping your puppy experience the world in a calm, confident, and safe way.
Safe Ways to Socialize Your Puppy With Other Dogs
If you want your puppy to have healthy experiences with other dogs, choose safer and more structured options.
Good options may include:
- Group training classes with controlled supervision
- Puppy socialization classes run by a knowledgeable trainer
- Carefully selected play sessions with calm, balanced dogs
- Friends or family members who have stable, appropriate dogs
- Structured walks around other dogs without forced greetings
Our Group Classes can help puppies and dogs learn around other dogs and people in a more structured environment than a dog park.
Socialization Also Means Exposure to the World
Getting your puppy around other dogs is only one part of socialization.
Many behaviour issues come from fear, lack of confidence, lack of trust in the handler, and not learning how to follow guidance in new situations.
More important than simply letting your puppy play with dogs is exposing them to different experiences in positive, controlled ways.
Your puppy should learn about different:
- Places
- Sounds
- Smells
- Surfaces
- People
- Environments
- Objects
- Movements and distractions
Examples of Good Puppy Socialization
If you want a confident dog who can go places with you, start introducing your puppy to the world in thoughtful ways.
Here are some examples:
- Take your puppy to dog-friendly stores and practice calm behaviour.
- Use a long line to let your puppy safely explore parks, trails, and fields.
- Encourage your puppy to explore unique surfaces such as bridges, tarps, steps, platforms, or playground-style surfaces where appropriate.
- Let your puppy observe people, dogs, bikes, strollers, and vehicles from a safe distance.
- Practice calm focus and obedience in new environments.
The goal is not to overwhelm your puppy. The goal is to build confidence through successful experiences.
Confidence Is the Goal
A well-socialized puppy is not a puppy who runs up to every dog and person.
A well-socialized puppy is calm, confident, curious, and able to handle new situations without panic or chaos.
When puppies are exposed to different environments in a safe and positive way, they are more likely to grow into dogs who can handle what life throws their way.
Training Support for Puppy Socialization
If you are unsure how to socialize your puppy safely, structured training can help.
Our dog training programs can help you choose the right training option for your puppy or dog.
For puppies who need one-on-one help with confidence, manners, leash skills, or exposure work, our Private Training programs may be the best fit.
For puppies and dogs ready to learn in a structured environment around other people and dogs, our Group Classes are a great option.
If your dog needs more healthy outlets for confidence and enrichment, activities like Agility, Scent Detection, or structured Day Camp may also be helpful.
Book a Consultation
Puppy socialization is not about throwing your puppy into a dog park and hoping for the best.
It is about creating positive, productive, and controlled experiences that build confidence. Your puppy should learn how to handle dogs, people, places, sounds, surfaces, and new environments in a calm and safe way.
If you only rely on dog parks for socialization, your puppy may struggle when introduced to new real-world situations. But if you build confidence through thoughtful exposure and training, you can help your puppy grow into a more balanced and happy dog.
Contact us today if you need help socializing your puppy or building your dog’s confidence.
Happy Training!
Katherine
FAQ:
What does puppy socialization mean?
Puppy socialization means helping your puppy experience people, dogs, places, sounds, surfaces, and environments in a positive and controlled way so they can become confident and well-rounded.
Are dog parks good for puppy socialization?
Dog parks can be risky for puppies because not all dogs there are appropriate, balanced, or well supervised. One bad experience can affect a puppy’s confidence and behaviour.
How should I socialize my puppy with other dogs?
Choose calm, stable dogs, structured group classes, supervised puppy classes, or controlled play with dogs you know and trust.
What should I expose my puppy to?
Expose your puppy to different places, sounds, smells, surfaces, people, objects, and calm experiences around other dogs. Keep the exposure positive and manageable.
Can puppy training classes help with socialization?
Yes. Group classes can help puppies learn around other dogs and people in a structured environment while building confidence, focus, and manners.
Jan 4, 2016 | Puppy Training
Happy New Year! Have you thought about your New Year’s Resolutions yet? Maybe your dog needs a resolution too? Pulling on leash? Jumping on guests? Excessive barking? Begging at the table? Not listening? If this sounds a little too familiar then it might just be time to make a joint resolution with your dog. While we hope training becomes an all year thing for you and your dog, why not take this opportunity to start the year off right? We have a variety of options when it comes to training to suit the needs of everyone. Whether you are looking for group class, private one on one training, or want us to do the training for you at Day School, we’ve got the solution to help you get your dog’s issues under control. Our gentle and effective training methods actually work! Just check out what our clients have to say here!
Not sure you want to commit to training just yet? Here are some FREE easy dog training tips to get you started on your own!
Adult Group Dog Training & Group Puppy Training
We now have two locations for Adult Group Dog Training and Group Puppy Training classes to serve you better! DogDen in Burlington on Monday and Wednesdays, and Temple of the Dog in Beamsville on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
We’d love to hear about your dog training goals! Contact us to reserve your spot in group class or to book a FREE evaluation for private training!
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Dec 10, 2015 | Puppy Training
Reactivity while on leash is incredibly common.
Many dog owners struggle with dogs who bark, lunge, pull, growl, or become overly excited when they see another dog on a walk. There are many factors that can contribute to leash reactivity, but most owners have the same goal: they want to walk their dog calmly without having to avoid every dog they see.
That is where reactive dog training can help.
Dog Training the Reactive Dog
A reactive dog is not always an aggressive dog. Some dogs react because they are fearful, frustrated, overexcited, under-socialized, or unsure what to do when they see another dog.
Whatever the reason, the behaviour can make walks stressful for both the dog and the owner.
The goal of training is to help the dog stay calmer, listen better, and learn how to move through the world without exploding at every trigger.
Why Dogs Become Reactive on Leash
Leash reactivity can happen for many reasons. Some dogs feel trapped when they are on leash because they cannot move away naturally. Others become frustrated because they want to get to the other dog. Some dogs have had bad experiences and now feel defensive around dogs.
Common causes of leash reactivity may include:
- Fear or insecurity
- Frustration
- Overexcitement
- Lack of structure on walks
- Poor leash manners
- Negative past experiences
- Lack of confidence
- Not knowing how to behave around other dogs
Understanding why the dog is reacting can help guide the training plan.
What Reactive Dog Training Looks Like
Reactive dog training is not about simply forcing a dog closer to other dogs and hoping they “get over it.” That approach can make the behaviour worse.
Good training focuses on creating structure, building confidence, improving communication, and helping the dog learn how to make better choices around triggers.
Depending on the dog, training may include:
- Improving leash handling
- Teaching focus around distractions
- Building calm behaviour at a safe distance
- Helping the dog move past triggers without exploding
- Teaching obedience around other dogs
- Creating clearer communication between dog and handler
Reactive Dogs Can Learn to Be Calm Around Other Dogs
The video below was taken during an adult group class at Temple of the Dog in Beamsville, Ontario.
Two of the dogs in the class were dog reactive, and one had shown some signs of dog aggression. After working through the issues with structure and training, the dogs were able to be calm and settled around each other.
This is the goal: calm, happy dogs who can exist around other dogs without constant stress or chaos.
Can a Reactive Dog Join Group Class?
Some reactive dogs can benefit from a structured group class, but not every reactive dog is ready for that environment right away.
Some dogs need one-on-one work first. Others may be ready to practice around other dogs with careful spacing, structure, and trainer guidance.
If your dog is reactive, it is important to choose the right training setup based on your dog’s current behaviour and comfort level.
Training Options for Reactive Dogs
If you are struggling with a reactive dog, professional support can help you understand what your dog needs and how to move forward safely.
Our dog training programs can help you choose the right option for your dog’s behaviour and goals.
For dogs who need one-on-one support with reactivity, leash manners, dog aggression concerns, confidence, or behaviour modification, our Private Training programs are often the best place to start.
If your dog is ready to work around other dogs and people in a structured setting, our Group Classes can help improve focus, obedience, and confidence around distractions.
For dogs who need additional mental and physical outlets, activities like Agility, Scent Detection, or structured Day Camp may also be helpful depending on the dog.
Book a Consultation
Leash reactivity is common, but that does not mean you have to avoid every dog forever.
With the right training plan, many reactive dogs can learn to stay calmer, listen better, and walk more peacefully around other dogs.
If your dog is reactive, do not wait until walks become more stressful. Get help, create a plan, and start building better habits one step at a time.
Contact us today if you need help with reactive dog training, leash manners, or behaviour support.
FAQ:
What is reactive dog training?
Reactive dog training helps dogs who bark, lunge, growl, pull, or overreact around triggers such as other dogs, people, bikes, or distractions. The goal is to build calmer behaviour and better communication.
Is a reactive dog the same as an aggressive dog?
No. A reactive dog is not always aggressive. Reactivity can come from fear, frustration, overexcitement, insecurity, or lack of training. However, any concerning behaviour should be handled carefully.
Can leash reactivity be fixed?
Many dogs can improve significantly with the right training, structure, consistency, and handling. Progress depends on the dog, the cause of the reactivity, and the owner’s follow-through.
Should my reactive dog join a group class?
Some reactive dogs can do well in a structured group class, but others need private training first. A trainer can help determine which option is safest and most effective.
How do I stop my dog reacting to other dogs on walks?
Start by creating distance, improving leash handling, teaching focus, and working at a level where your dog can still think and respond. Professional training can help create a safe and realistic plan.
Nov 25, 2015 | Puppy Training
One conversation I consistently have with clients is about crating.
For the record, I am pro-crating. All three of my dogs are crated during the day while we are not home, and not one of them is upset or stressed about being in their crate.
When done properly, crate training your dog can create a safe, calm, and positive space. A crate should never be used as punishment. Instead, it should be introduced as a place where your dog can rest, relax, and stay safe when you cannot supervise them.
To Crate Your Dog or Not
Many dog owners wonder whether crating is necessary. Some people feel guilty about using a crate, while others are unsure if their dog really needs one.
The truth is that crate training can be incredibly helpful, especially for puppies, young dogs, active chewers, dogs who are still learning house manners, and dogs who need help settling.
Why I Believe in Crate Training
Crate training is not about locking a dog away. It is about safety, structure, and peace of mind.
When a dog is properly crate trained, the crate can become a comfortable place where they feel secure. It also helps prevent dangerous and expensive problems when you are not home to supervise.
1. Crating Helps Keep Your Dog Safe
We are responsible for the safety of our dogs.
When we leave a young dog, puppy, or active chewer uncrated and unattended, we are taking a risk. Dogs can get into things that may be dangerous or even life-threatening.
An unsupervised dog may:
- Chew or swallow something that could cause a blockage
- Get into something poisonous
- Choke on a small object
- Destroy furniture, shoes, baseboards, or household items
- Eat something you may not realize they consumed
Depending on what your dog gets into, the result could be illness, emergency surgery, or worse.
2. Crating Can Save You Money
When dogs chew belongings, it can become expensive very quickly.
Replacing shoes, furniture, rugs, doors, baseboards, or household items adds up. Even worse, if your dog swallows something that needs to be surgically removed, the cost can be significant.
Life is expensive enough. Crate training can help prevent avoidable damage and protect both your dog and your home.
3. Crating Can Reduce Your Stress
If you leave the house every morning worrying about what your dog might destroy or eat, that stress can take a toll.
Coming home to a mess only increases frustration and anxiety. But when your dog is safe in their crate, you can leave with peace of mind and return to your home exactly as you left it.
That peace of mind is valuable for both you and your dog.
Book a Consultation
Does Every Dog Need to Be Crated Forever?
Not necessarily.
Some dogs eventually earn more freedom in the home. However, that freedom should be given gradually and only when the dog has shown they can handle it.
If crate training is done properly, many dogs will still choose to use their crate even when the door is open. The crate can become their safe place, quiet space, or resting area.
Do Not Give Too Much Freedom Too Soon
One common mistake is giving a young dog too much freedom before they are ready.
If a dog transitions from being crated to being left loose and then begins chewing, destroying items, or getting into trouble, they may have been given too much freedom too soon.
When dogs are bored, under-exercised, or left without structure, they will often find something to do. Unfortunately, that may mean chewing baseboards, eating your favourite shoe, or destroying the couch.
All dogs are different. Some dogs can handle freedom sooner than others. The key is to move slowly and make sure your dog is ready.
How to Make the Crate a Positive Place
The crate should feel safe and comfortable for your dog.
To help create a positive crate experience, you can:
- Introduce the crate gradually
- Use food, meals, or treats to build positive associations
- Keep crate time calm and predictable
- Make sure your dog has enough exercise and potty breaks
- Avoid using the crate as punishment
- Choose the right crate size for your dog
A properly introduced crate can become a helpful part of your dog’s daily routine.
Need Help With Crate Training?
If your dog struggles with crate training, destructive chewing, house training, separation-related stress, or too much freedom too soon, professional guidance can help.
Our dog training programs can help you choose the right training option for your dog’s needs.
For dogs who need one-on-one support with crate training, home structure, puppy manners, or behaviour concerns, our Private Training programs may be the best fit.
If your puppy or dog is ready to learn around other dogs and people, our Group Classes can help build confidence, focus, and obedience in a structured setting.
For dogs who need more routine and structured activity during the day, our Day Camp may also provide helpful enrichment and supervised activity.
Book a Consultation
Crate training can be a simple and powerful tool when it is done properly.
It can keep your dog safe, prevent destructive habits, protect your home, reduce stress, and create a calm place for your dog to rest.
Not every dog needs to be crated forever, but many dogs benefit from having a crate as part of their routine. The key is to introduce it positively and give freedom gradually when your dog is ready.
Contact us today if you need help with crate training, puppy training, destructive chewing, or creating better structure at home.
Happy Training!
Katherine
FAQ:
Is crate training good for dogs?
Yes, crate training can be very helpful when introduced properly. It can give your dog a safe place to rest and help prevent dangerous or destructive behaviour when you cannot supervise.
Should every dog be crated?
Not every dog needs to be crated forever, but many puppies, young dogs, and active chewers benefit from crate training until they can safely handle more freedom.
Is crate training cruel?
Crate training is not cruel when it is done correctly. The crate should be a positive, safe space and should not be used as punishment.
When can I stop crating my dog?
You can begin giving more freedom when your dog has shown they can be trusted unsupervised. This should happen gradually, not all at once.
Why does my dog chew things when left alone?
Dogs may chew when they are bored, anxious, under-exercised, teething, or given too much freedom too soon. Crate training and better structure can help prevent this.
