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Dog crates or dog cages are a boon to dog owners everywhere. They help to contain dogs within a limited area so they cannot run rampant when you are not at home or when you do not wish to be disturbed. In a house where most of the household inhabitants are out of the house for periods of time, dogs that have the run of the house can cause a lot of damage by way of chewing up the shoes or urinating and defecating anywhere. Keeping your pet in a dog crate can help avoid this problem and help to house break the dog too.

However, not all dogs necessarily agreeable with their masters about being put into a dog cage and so they need to undergo a period which can best be called “crate training.” The key to successful crate training is to make it as easy and pleasant for the dog so that he associates the dog crate with pleasant memories. Forcing your dog into the dog cage will make your dog hate it forever.

When training your dog to use dog crates, take it slow and easy. Let your dog get used to the idea and help him make pleasant associations. You can do this by first placing dog cages in places where your dog is sure to be comfortable in, whether it is in your kitchen or the study.

Dog crates and dog cages should also always be comfortable so your dog can look forward to curling up and cuddling into them. If you find that your dog is unwilling to get into the cage or crate, you may need to resort to a little coaxing or even some bribing. No dog would be able to resist the temptation of getting in if their favourite treat is placed inside the dog crate. A few dog biscuits or a favourite ball is sure to get any dog into dog crates without too much of a fuss.

If you are planning on leaving your dog in a dog crate or dog cage for a period of time, you are going to have to get your dog accustomed to eating in the cage. Most dogs will easily adapt to a dog crate or dog cage willingly when it comes to eating. Again, this is something you will have to do one step at a time so your dog gets used to the idea without feeling stressed. For the first few days, close the door only while your dog is eating and open it when he is done. Gradually start leaving the cage door closed longer and longer after your dog has finished eating, till your dog gets the idea.

Keep in mind training dogs to stay in their dog crates or dog cages takes time. It is a lot of hard work and can sometimes get very frustrating but you need to persist. Once you succeed in doing so, you can go anywhere you want and stay out for a period of time knowing that your dog will not be causing havoc in the house whilst he is home alone. Your shoes will be safe and in one piece and there will be no mess on your carpet. Dog crates and dog cages help keep your dog disciplined, which means more peace of mind for you.