Crate training for your puppy is one of the best ways to start your house training.
Dogs don't like to go to the bathroom where they sleep.
The crate acts as the dog's den and usually, dogs and puppies do not go where they sleep.
You will need to keep the size of the crate small enough for the puppy to be comfortable so it can get up and turn around but not where it feels it can go to the bathroom in the back and still lay at the door.
Never use the crate as a punishment and never leave your dog in the crate for long periods of time.
If you want, you can use bedding in the kennel. Just be watchful that the puppy does not chew the bedding.
I start my puppies going into the crate by letting them eat in the crate with the door open. When they are comfortable, I would close the door for a bit, open it and give treats saying, good girl or boy.
Young puppies can not control their bladders and need to be let out often.
Your dog should not see the crate as something negative. Never raise your voice in crate training!
Increase the time in the crate in small steps. You don't want to leave them in there for hours at a time. Especially at the beginning of the training.
Do not assume your puppy/dog is house trained after a short period of time. Never leave them alone running around without supervision.
You should crate the dog at night somewhere that you can hear when it is asking to go out.
Pay attention and learn the signs your dog gives you when it wants to go to the bathroom.
Another great reason for crate training is vet visits. If you're puppy/dog has to spend time at the vet for some reason, the crate is one less thing for it to be stressed about at such a stressful time. Again, that's another reason why the crate should never be used as punishment!
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