The Crate Method for House-training Dogs

Crate-training your pet is the act of temporarily confining it while you are away. Crates are composed of plastic or metal, with a small door at one end that can be secured. For your dog to be comfortable in its crate, it should be large enough for the dog to stand up in and turn around easily. Dogs do not like to soil the area in which they sleep, and crate-training is the most effective and fastest method of house-training a pet to relieve itself outdoors.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog crate made of plastic or metal
  • Soft padding
  • Dog treats
  • Dog toys
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the crate by placing it in a well-used room in the house, such as the family room. Place adequate padding into the crate to give the dog a soft area to sleep on. Fill the dog's water and food bowls.

    • 2

      Let your dog outside or walk it so it can relieve itself. Play with your dog for at least five minutes before you leave the house. Bring your dog its favorite toy and toss it into the crate. Close the door to the crate and secure it inside.

    • 3

      When you arrive home, open the crate and let your dog out. It is likely that, depending on how long you were away, the dog will be ready to go outside and relieve itself. Do not scold or discipline your dog if it soiled the crate. The dog will not understand what it did wrong or why you are angry.

    • 4

      Let your dog outside to relieve itself. Follow the dog around at a close distance. After the dog relieves itself, lavish it with praise and give it a favorite treat. This will reinforce the act of relieving itself outside with positive rewards.