We bought a crate, any crate training tips for a first timer? (train, puppy)

[Kristynwy]

We have it "divided" off appropriately for his current size at the moment, it is large enough for when he is full size.

Any tips on introducing him to his crate?

I have read a great article provided in my "puppy tips" post about the basics of crate training. Very informative, and did read that it is important to not keep a dog in the crate for more than a couple hours.

[cleosmom]

You want to read Viralmd's excellent post on potty training.

http://www.city-data.com/forum/5663078-post3.html

[Kristynwy]

Originally Posted by cleosmom

You want to read Viralmd's excellent post on potty training.

http://www.city-data.com/forum/5663078-post3.html

Thanks a bunch I was looking for his post and couldn't find it thanks a ton

[Viralmd]

Try this, too: American Dog Trainers Network -- How To Successfully Crate Train Your Puppy

[memphisgator]

You're right on... read the tips on crating a dog.

I also found an old t-shirt of mine....and wore it for a while so that it smelled like me. then I rubbed it on his crate mat and left it in there. I'd like to think that it's a comfort to him and a familiar smell. (If I smell good atleast! ) ..... and I l ike to think I do I swear he started falling asleep in there soon after.

[little elmer]

Originally Posted by memphisgator

You're right on... read the tips on crating a dog.

I also found an old t-shirt of mine....and wore it for a while so that it smelled like me. then I rubbed it on his crate mat and left it in there. I'd like to think that it's a comfort to him and a familiar smell. (If I smell good atleast! ) ..... and I l ike to think I do I swear he started falling asleep in there soon after.

That's a great idea! I'll try it.

[Woof Woof Woof!]

Make the crate a happy place. Eventually it should become a home or den for the dogs. Many dogs love their crates.

[bigcats]

Don't get discouraged with it, but be willing to take a break with it if necessary.

When mine was going through intense separation anxiety she had a really hard time with hers, after initially liking it quite a bit.

I tried some other things for awhile (a safe room, mostly). I left the crate set up, with her blankies. After a month or two, she spontaneously began using it again. She sees me put my coat on now and scurries into the crate. I have no idea why she just decided to do it again on her own. She really likes the command "Go to your crate" now. Perks her head, drops whatever she's doing, and goes.

[lorriem]

When we go out we give each dog their Kong and put some peanutbutter on it. When they see us getting the Kongs ready they go right into their crates. That is the only time they have their Kongs. When we get home we take the kongs right out of the cage and let the girls out side.

[TexasGirl@Heart]

What are kongs?