Crate training is a step-by-step process. It requires desensitizing the animal, a method that aims to prevent, reduce and get rid of a negative reaction to a stimulus. What we really want is to teach the pet that the crate is a safe, comfy, nice space for them.
- Let the pet get familiar with the crate
Leave the crate in plain sight for the animal so they can get used to it. We want the dog to see it as a neutral item so it is not scary. It is important that the crate becomes part of the environment and isn’t stored away in a closet or the garage and only used to go to the vet.
- Put food and treats in front of the crate
This is the step where positive reinforcement begins. We want the animal to learn that when they are near the crate, something fun happens like getting delicious treats and even meals. This kind of reinforcement allows the pet to develop a positive emotion regarding the crate.
- Feed the animal in the crate
Prepare the pet’s meal and place the bowl in the crate. With time, push the bowl further inside the crate to invite them to walk in on its own – make sure that the door doesn’t close on the dog, because it would scare them away. Between meals, you can always throw a treat or two inside the crate so the animal walks in and out of the crate at random times.
- Close the door while the animal eats inside and open it before they notice it was closed
Once the animal is comfortable walking inside to eat a meal, close the door for a few moments when the dog isn’t paying attention. The goal here is to get the animal familiar with the sound of the door moving and closing. We want the dog to gradually get used to the door closing, keeping in mind that it will eventually remain closed.
- Give a small meal inside the crate, close the door, and give some treats through the door
By giving a small serving, we expect the dog to empty the bowl and turn to the door to exit. Through the closed door, give a tasty treat to the animal and open the door within a few seconds. It is crucial not to leave the door closed for too long and to make sure that the animal eats the treat. Otherwise, it means that your animal is stressed and we have to spend even more time at the previous step, which means leaving the door open. Also, make sure not to give a treat when you open the crate to let the dog out, because we want the animal to understand that it is much more fun when they are inside the crate. You will be surprised to see the animal go in the crate on their own at unexpected times in the day. This is your chance to reward them.
- Gradually leave the dog in the crate for longer periods
Once the animal is comfortable eating meals and treats inside the crate with the door closed, leave them in the crate a little longer. Start with a few seconds, then gradually increase the time up to a few minutes. Start to wait a little longer before giving a treat, and remember, at the first sign of stress to go back a step or reduce the time spent in the crate.
- Move the crate with them in it
When it comes to cats and small dogs, the last step is to get them used to a moving crate. There is a considerable difference between a crate that stays on the ground and a moving crate. To show them that there is no need to panic, practise makes perfect! Start by moving it a short distance within the house and gradually increase the distance. To minimize the movement, we don’t recommend grabbing the handle, but instead to grab the crate with two hands as if it was a box. It will be much more stable for the pet inside.
In the end, the goal is to provide your dog with the understanding that being in a crate is a positive thing: when at home, on short visits, for trips, etc. Properly preparing them will reduce stress because they will be familiar with the crate and have a safe place to go.