Crate training an older dog may be something that you find yourself doing just out of frustration. Whether you have rescued an elderly dog that was never properly trained to go into a crate or perhaps you just never got around to properly crate training your dog when he was still a pup, the lack of proper training could leave both you and your dog stressed when you are suddenly confronted with a necessity to housebreak your dog… But don’t worry! Training an older dog doesn’t have to be as difficult or time-consuming as you may have been led to believe. With the right strategy on your side, crate training an older dog shouldn’t be all that difficult.
So, how to crate train an older dog? The first thing that you need to do is get used to the idea that, when your dog is older, it will take longer to potty train. This is not because they are intrinsically lazy dogs; it’s just the physicality of being an older dog. It’s your responsibility to teach your dog how to get used to going to the bathroom outside.
One of the best ways to crate train an older dog is by making it into a routine. If you start out by laying down newspaper or a blanket, and if you begin your puppy out of his crate at a certain time each day, you will find that he begins to associate going inside the crate with something positive. You could also start by allowing him to just stay in his crate for a few minutes in the morning and an hour or so at night. Once he starts expecting this, it will be much easier for him to go into his crate.
One of the biggest mistakes that many people make when they are looking into how to crate train an older dog is by letting them go off to their “free-range” times. While this might seem like a good idea, it can actually lead to your dog becoming confused about when they should be going to the bathroom. As mentioned above, puppies will need to learn how to deal with the idea that they may have to go outside. However, adult dogs will not know this difference and may end up becoming confused about whether they should relieve themselves while they are on the leash or not.
If your dog has already become accustomed to going to the bathroom in his crate, you can try some other ideas on how to crate train an older dog. One of the most popular tricks is called the wait and see exercise. This is done by putting your dog on a leash and having him sit on the edge of the crate for a length of time. As he waits, you can give treats to encourage him to go take his poop. The key is to praise him every time he finishes, and give him treats so he will want to continue the wait even more.
When trying to crate train an adult dog, there are a few other tips to follow that will help get you started. Some of these tips include having a dog agility training course that you can take your dog to on a regular basis. Dogs like to run and do various things for entertainment, and they will love the opportunity to do this when they are in an agility competition. In addition to dog agility training, you can also look into toys that are made specifically for older dogs, so they will enjoy being able to play with their toys while learning new skills and techniques.
There are plenty of different sources online that have information on how to crate train an older dog. In addition to just buying dog crates, you can also find books and DVDs that offer you even more ideas. Many people start training their dogs while they are still puppies, and crate training is one of the most popular ways to do this. However, there are many people who feel that adult dogs should be taught how to crate train on their own if they have problems with eliminating in the home.
Whether or not you decide to crate train your dog, there are a number of good things about dog toys that you will benefit from. First off, toys are much easier to remove from your dog than are dog crates, making for a much cleaner house. Second, toys are great to let your dog engage with outside activities, which will keep him happy. Finally, by playing with your dog’s toys, you will get him used to having positive experiences where he will learn that he is supposed to get treated with toys and treats, and not bad food and water, so he won’t be confused.
