Crating is a controversial dog training strategy because many owners consider it cruel. The truth is, it is only “cruel” if owners make it so. If the strategy is approached properly, most canines will come to view their metal pens as sanctuaries where they can rest or simply retreat from noise. Besides, the alternative may be discovering that your pooch has eliminated inside your home (housetraining is another advantage of crating).

This article will provide a 4-step blueprint for crating your canine. Sticking to a methodical process will usually yield better results than approaching it haphazardly.

Step 1: Crate, Meet Dog. Dog, Meet Crate

Your dog will not intuitively understand what you expect from him when you bring his new pen home. You'll have to ease him into it gradually. Put the crate in a room where you and your family spend a lot of time. That way, he won't feel as if he is being ostracized. Line the crate with blankets or towels to make it more comfortable.

Step 2: Coax Him With Food

The next hurdle is to help him gain a level of comfort with his pen. This might require a few days or a few weeks; every canine is different. Professional trainers suggest placing treats on the outside of the crate next to the door. Then, as your dog becomes more comfortable, move the treats inside the pen (still near the door). Next, put his favorite treats deep inside the crate, but keep the door open for him to enter and leave easily. Finally, follow this same process with his regular meals.

Step 3: Train Him For Longer Periods

As your pooch gains a greater level of comfort spending time within his pen, close the door for short periods. This will condition him to being confined. Then, gradually increase the amount of time he is confined to his crate. You’ll likely need to do this throughout each day for at least a week or two in order to build up to a half-hour confinement without his feeling anxious.

Step 4: Crating During Bedtime

The last hurdle is crating your dog when you go to bed. He might be more comfortable if you move the crate into your bedroom at night. If he is confined outside your bedroom, he may begin to associate crating with punishment if he feels that you’re purposefully isolating him. Also, a lot of owners don’t realize that canines love to be near them – even when they’re sleeping.

Put him in his crate before going to bed and secure the door. It might be a good idea to give him a couple of his favorite toys and a treat. If he needs to eliminate during the night, he'll wake you up (he'll avoid eliminating in his sanctuary).

Crating is a proven dog training strategy that professional trainers recommend to owners. The key is to approach it slowly and methodically so your canine companion eventually comes to view the pen as his refuge.