Ep 22. Crating and Alone Training

As pet owners often lead busy lives, there are times when dogs need to be left alone for various reasons. It could be due to work, errands, or a social event, among other things. It is essential to train them to be comfortable while alone, which requires patience, time, and dedication.

In this episode of Dog Training 101, season 1, episode 22, the focus is primarily on crating and alone training. The instructor discusses the importance of crating, which is an essential tool for dog owners. Many dogs feel safe and secure in their crate. It is their sanctuary, and they tend to view it as their own personal space. However, getting them to accept it can be tricky, especially if the dog is not used to crating.

The trainer begins by explaining the reasons for crating a dog. Firstly, it keeps the dog safe. Puppies are naturally curious and can get into all sorts of trouble when left alone. Providing them with a secure and comfortable space prevents them from hurting themselves or causing any damage to the house. Secondly, crating assists with house training. Dogs are den animals and prefer to relieve themselves away from the area where they sleep. Crating can be useful in-house training them.

The trainer then offers some useful tips for crate training a dog, which involves introducing the crate gradually. It is essential to make the crate an appealing and fun space for the dog. The first step is to encourage the dog to go into the crate voluntarily by placing some treats in it. The trainer emphasizes that the crate should be big enough for the dog to stand, lie down, and turn comfortably. After encouraging the dog to enter the crate, the next step is to close the door and start with small intervals of closure, which increase gradually.

The next topic addressed in this episode is alone training. Dogs that have never been alone before tend to suffer from separation anxiety and may bark, howl, and become destructive if left alone. Therefore, it is essential to teach them that being alone is normal and not a threat to their security.

The trainer begins by advising that alone training should begin with short intervals. It is important to help the dog associate being alone with positive feelings. The trainer provides useful tips, such as practicing departure cues, such as picking up the keys or putting on shoes, but not actually leaving. This action helps to remove the trigger associated with the anxiety of being left alone.

Another useful tip provided is to make leaving a surprise and a pleasant experience. For example, the owner can give the dog a stuffed treat or toy that only comes out when they are leaving. The dog will then associate the treat with being alone, making the situation less stressful.

In summary, the episode emphasizes the importance of training dogs to be comfortable while crated and alone. The trainer provides practical tips, including rewarding good behavior, making the crate an appealing space, and practicing departure cues. The aim is to help the dog view being alone as a normal and positive experience and become comfortable with it.

In conclusion, this episode of Dog Training 101 offers valuable information on how to train a dog to be comfortable while crated and alone. The episode emphasizes the importance of slowly introducing the crate and making it an appealing space for the dog. It also provides tips on how to make the dog associate being alone with positive experiences. The practical tips provided help dog owners train their furry friends to feel comfortable, safe, and secure when left alone.