CRATING A PUPPY
A young puppy (8-16 weeks) should normally adjust well to a crate as being his "own place." Any initial complaints he might voice are not normally due to the crate, but rather about his learning to accept the controls associated with his unfamiliar environment. The crate will help him to adjust to his new world more easily and quickly, since he is being introduced to this new world only a small portion at a time.
Crating Routine
With the crate situated in it's location, the crate needs to be furnished. Bedding can be provided by using an on towel or piece of blanket which can be washed (should an accident occur) and some worn unlaundered article of clothing such as a tee shirt, or old shirt (to help familiarize him with your scent). Do not put food or water in a puppy crate. The puppy will only upset the dishes, and this is his bedroom - you do not eat in bed.
Make it clear to children that the crate is not a "playpen" for them, it is the puppy's room. You should, however accustom the puppy from the start that people can reach into the crate at any time, so that the puppy does not become overly protective of his crate.
A "crate routine" should be established immediately, closing the puppy in the crate at regular intervals for 1 to 2 hours during the day. The puppy's nap times will help guide you in establishing these times. Additionally, whenever the puppy must be left alone for a period of time, or is going to be unsupervised the pup should be crated. Prior to crating, be sure to remove the pup's collar which could become caught in an opening.
At night, in the beginning, you may want to place the crate in a small enclosed area such as a bathroom or laundry room. Placing the crate in this area with the door left open and newspapers nearby, enables the pup to relieve itself without soiling it's crate. Once the pup matures he will develop greater bladder and bowel control. When the pup has sufficient control, and if there is no intestinal upset, he can be crated all night in his usual place.
There may be setbacks - but don't give up - the keys are consistency and perseverance. The pup will adjust to the routine - you will have a secure well adjusted companion.
If you do not choose, or not able, to use the crate permanently, you should plan on using the crate for at least 5 to 6 months. At this age your pup will be past the teething phase - at which time you can start leaving the crate door open at night, or when someone is at home during the day, or when he is going to be left alone for a brief period of time. If there are no incidences for a week or two, and the dog is behaving well when left alone, you may be ready to remove the crate itself and place the dog's bedding in the same spot. Initially the dog may miss the crate enclosure, but the dog still has his "place", and the habit of good behavior should continue. If any problems arise the crate routine can be re-established.
CRATING AN ADULT DOG
The most common behavior problem of older puppies (over 6 months) or adult dogs is caused by the lack of a feeling of security when left alone. A crate can help to fulfill this need, and will hopefully solve the problems, but it must be introduced gradually. You must make every possible effort to be sure that the dog's association with the crate is positive and pleasant. The owner must also remember that the crate is not to be used for frequent long-period usage.
How to condition the dog to the crate
Be sure that the crate is of adequate size (see How Big Should the Crate Be ?). Be sure that the crate is properly positioned (see Crate Location in The Home). Secure the door open, so that it can not accidentally shut and frighten the dog. Do not put the bedding in the crate. Allow the dog to investigate the crate, then lure the dog inside the crate by tossing "special" tidbits (cheese, liver, hotdog) into the far end. Allow the dog to turn and come back out. Praise him enthusiastically for his conquest of his fears. When the dog is confidently entering the crate place his bedding and an object with your scent in the crate. Coax the dog inside the crate and try to entice him (with food if necessary) to lie down and relax. Do not wrestle him into place, he must be comfortable - not forced. Continue this pattern for several days. Encourage the dog to use the crate as much as possible, and shutting the door briefly while you sit beside him or are nearby. The dog may resist in your efforts to give him a secure home. You must remain firm and consistent, so that the dog will understand you want him to be in the crate and be quiet. He may not be content in the crate but he will accept that this is your desire.
As soon as he has accepted the crate and you are confident that he will remain quiet when closed in, you can safely leave him alone. Give him a chew toy or a safe bone to entertain him while you are gone. Be sure that his collar is removed, so that it won't get caught on anything. You may want your first outing to be brief (1/2 to 1 hour), proving to yourself that he has quietly accepted confinement and reassuring him that you have indeed come back to him. With the acceptance of the crate as his "special place" the dog will stop being a problem and start being a pleasure. In due time you may be able to start weaning him from use of the crate without resuming problem behavior.
Sounds like great advice.
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