Instructions
Set up a kennel that has enough room to allow your dog to fully stand up and turn around, but not much bigger. If the kennel is too large, the dog may choose to soil it. Place the kennel in an area where your dog can see your family.
Place a soft blanket inside of the kennel so that your dog can rest in comfort. Take off the door or secure the door of the kennel so that it remains open during this part of the training.
Place some dog treats right outside the kennel. Call your dog over to the kennel and point to the treats so that it notices them. Place some treats inside of the kennel door and on the blanket. The dog may or may not go inside the kennel. Do not force it to go. Older dogs may be picky about treats. Find some that your older canine really likes before starting this training.
Leave the treats in place to allow the dog to retrieve them. Continue tossing treats into the kennel to entice the dog to enter over a period of two to three days.Call your dog over when you toss them in, so that it notices what you're doing. If the dog enters the crate to retrieve the treats, do not shut the door. Allow it to go in and come out so it becomes comfortable with the idea of the kennel.
Place the dog's food in its dish outside of the kennel and allow it to eat there after it has become comfortable going in and out of the kennel for treats. The next day, place the food inside of the kennel. Over the course of two to three days, move the food dish back into the kennel until you can gently close the door while your dog is eating.
Open the door after your dog finishes eating and allow it to come out. Later, toss some treats into the kennel and close the door once the dog goes inside. Keep the door closed for one to three minutes, depending on the dog's reaction. If it becomes distressed or whines, open the door.
Increase the amount of time you leave the dog in the kennel with the door shut after treats or feeding. Do it gradually and always release the canine if it becomes anxious or agitated when the door is closed. Finally, you will reach the point where your dog doesn't mind being in the kennel.
How to Kennel-Train an Old Dog
According to information posted on the Humane Society website, the success of kennel training depends on your dog's age and disposition. While a younger dog may respond more readily to kennel training, your older dog can learn to accept a kennel as a safe place to enter and relax. When kennel training, take your time and make it as pleasant as possible for both you and your dog.