How to Get Your Dog Into a Crate

Crates are a good way to train your dog. By keeping the puppy or adult dog in the crate for most of the time, you can house-train him or correct bad behavior. According to Dog Breed Info Center, the dog will stay inside the crate when he is not supervised. Crates should be thought of as the dog's personal bedroom or playroom. Though some experts think that crating a dog is cruel, other experts think it is an effective way to train the dog. Most dogs like their crates once they get used to them, but the first step is getting the dog to enter the crate voluntarily.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Dog treats
  • Dog food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the crate in a room that has a lot of human activity, like the living room, family room or kitchen.

    • 2

      Take the dog off its leash, and take him to the crate. Allow him to explore it. Most dogs do this out of curiosity.

    • 3

      Place dog treats near the crate, then place dog treats just inside the crate. In many cases, this is enough to get the dog interested in the crate.

    • 4

      Place dog food at the back of the crate. This is the best way to lure a reluctant dog into the crate. The dog associates the crate with food or pleasure.

    • 5

      Praise the dog when she enters the crate. The praise reinforces the idea that getting into the crate is a good thing. Do this every time the dog enters the crate for any reason.