Instructions
Select the correct crate size for your dog. It should be large enough for it to stand up and turn around with ease. Puppy owners should purchase a crate sized for its adulthood. During training, they should block-off excess space inside, so there is not enough room for it to urinate or defecate. Consider renting a crate from a shelter, which you can trade-in as your dog grows, in exchange for one more appropriately-sized.
Present the crate to your dog. It should be situated where there's a lot of foot traffic, like the kitchen or television room. Place a blanket and toy inside, open the door and let your dog explore it at will. If your pooch is hesitant, gently encourage it to interact with the crate. Toss treats inside and use plentiful praise. Never push it inside; but rather, let it become acquainted with the crate at its own pace.
Feed your dog in the crate. Begin by placing its food near the crate. Over time, slowly inch the food inside the crate. After a few days of your dog eating inside the crate comfortably, you may begin to gently close the door behind it. Keep it closed for only a short period of time at first, while it eats. Slowly increase the time with the door closed, in increments of a few minutes.
Extend your dog's time in the crate. Once it can eat inside, closed in and comfortable, it can stay in the crate without food for short periods of time. Point to the crate and say "Kennel," as a command. Praise it copiously upon entering the crate and obeying. Sit near the crate for a few minutes -- then quietly leave -- return after a couple minutes and release your dog. Repeat this process a couple of times a day, slowly lengthening the time, until it can spend 30 minutes inside without a problem.
Crate your dog as you exit the home. You should never crate it for too long before you leave, but rather within 5 and 20 minutes of your departure; you can vary this each time you head out. Make your exit clean and free of emotion. Offer quick praise and a treat, then go. Again, slowly extend these periods in the crate.
Let your dog sleep in the crate at night. Place the crate in a bedroom, especially for puppies and older dogs. The latter group can experience separation anxiety, whereas pups may need to frequently use the bathroom at night.
How to Kennel a Dog at Home
Kennel training for dogs that takes place in your home is referred to as "crate training." A crate is a kennel, sized for your breed that can be moved and transported. Typically crafted from wire or from plastic, crates can help indulge your dog's innate instinct to den in a secure environment. Crate training can also help you better care for your pet. Patience is definitely a virtue in this process -- and complete success will take some time.