Golden Retriever Crate Training

Golden retrievers are well-mannered and intelligent dogs that are highly devoted and eager to please their masters. As a result, they make perfect family dogs. However, like most dogs, golden retrievers are playful and may run into behavioral issues like chewing on household items if they're not properly trained. Crate training a golden retriever puppy capitalizes on the dog's need for a den-like enclosure to sleep in and will help prevent destructive behavior while you're not home.

Things You'll Need

  • Appropriately-sized dog crate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a crate that is an appropriate size for your golden retriever. Purchase a crate that is large enough so that it will not confine your dog to a tight, uncomfortable space. Golden retrievers typically require a crate with a depth of 42 inches. Add towels, blankets and toys to the crate to help surround your dog with comforting items. If you're leaving the dog for more than two hours, add a water dispenser filled with cold water.

    • 2

      Place the crate in an area of your home that you and your family members frequently spend time in. Golden retrievers are very sociable dogs that love being around people. Placing the crate in a less-frequented area of your home will cause the dogs to feel isolated and lonely while in the crate, and they will begin to view the crate as punishment.

    • 3

      Put biscuits, pieces of kibble and treats in the crate throughout the day, and keep the door securely open so that the dog can go in and out as he or she pleases. The dog will discover the treats in the crate and will begin to form positive associations with the crate. In the same vein, you can also give your golden retriever meals while in the crate. Praise your dog when he or she enters the crate.

    • 4

      Put your golden retriever in the crate while you are in the same room as the dog --- not only when you leave the house. This will help your dog to think of the crate as his personal space for relaxing and will prevent the dog from associating the crate with being alone.

    • 5

      Increase the amount of time your dog spends in the cage as the dog ages. Nine- to 10-week-old golden retrievers should only spend about 30 to 60 minutes in the crate at a time, while 17-week-old dogs can spend more than four hours in the crate. Dogs should not be crated for more than six hours at a time (except for overnight).