How to Avoid the Dog House
- 1). Get a crate. Select one that is suited to your dog, one that is large enough for your dog to stand and turn around. Dog crates can be purchased at your nearest pet supply store.
- 2). Train your dog to use the crate. Put the crate inside your home where your family spends a lot of time, such as in your living room. Put a towel or cushion inside the crate. Take your dog to the crate and let her explore the crate at her pleasure. You may need to toss some food or a favorite toy inside the crate to entice the dog to enter the crate, although some dogs instantly take to the crate and start sleeping in the crate immediately.
- 3). Make it fun for the dog. Feed your dog regularly near the crate or put the food dish inside the crate. Put toys in the crate and exchange the toys every now and then for variety. Reward your dog with food treats and praise her when she rests calmly in the crate. In time, your dog will be comfortable in the crate.
- 4). Take it slowly. Gradually lengthen the time your dog stays in the crate. Close the crate door when the dog is inside the crate eating his meals and open the door only when he finishes eating his meals. Leave the door closed a few minutes longer in each successive feeding period, until he is staying in the crate for about 10 minutes after eating. Do not make it a habit to let the dog out when he whines or cries because you do not want him learning that the way out of the crate is to cry or whine. Let the dog out only when he stops crying.
- 5). Crate your dog to avoid the dog house. Put your dog in his crate using your regular command five to 20 minutes before you leave home. Praise him briefly and give him a treat, such as a dog biscuit, once he is calmly settled in the crate. You may put a few of his favorite toys in the crib to keep him occupied when you are away. Close the crate door and leave quietly.
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