Crate Training Beagles

Most dogs benefit from being crate trained as puppies. This is especially true for beagles, who tend to be instinctively stubborn and may chew up things if left outside unsupervised. Starting them out at the beginning of their lives with consistent training will keep them on the path of understanding who is in charge and that there are strict rules in your home. Crate training is mainly for housebreaking purposes and works because dogs don't usually want to go to the bathroom in the same place they sleep. The crate will eventually become a comfortable place for your beagle to be when he isn't being exercised.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog crate
  • Blanket
  • Toys
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set the crate in a room that you will be in a lot during the day, and put your beagle's bedding inside, along with a favorite toys and lots of treats. Place some treats just outside the crate to get your puppy interested in it.

    • 2

      Feed the dog his meals inside the crate with the door open while you are in the room. Since beagles have hunting instincts, you can create a tracking game by placing kibble pieces in a line to the food bowl. Do this for a few days until the dog is clearly comfortable being in and around the crate.

    • 3

      Close your puppy into the crate for a few minutes while you are still in the room. Give him treats and lots of praise while he's inside. Do this a few more times during the day, increasing the time as well as leaving him alone for parts of the experience.

    • 4

      Put the crate in your bedroom and close your dog into the crate overnight. Put water in the crate and again give her a treat. You will have to get up and let your puppy out to go to the bathroom every 2 to 4 hours.

    • 5

      Continue this process until your puppy grows to be able to hold it for the entire night. Decide whether to continue leaving him in the crate overnight or letting him sleep out in the house based on his overall behavior.