Crate Training is a very integral part of training for a number of reasons. As soon as leaving the litter training should begin. My description of a crate is one that is completely enclosed except for the door and small windows. The wire ones are cages in my estimate. The enclosed one provides security much as a den would in the wild while the cage allows the pup to feel insecure especially for someone to be standing over it. Although it can be used to acclimate a pup to certain areas of the home but it should be moved around to fulfill that purpose. A solution for the cage is to cover it with something light weight that can't be seen through. I also use this technique for the crate for isolation training, covering completely. I believe in isolation training to provide confidence in a pup for the days when someone can't be there. They must learn to be alone and quiet (calm) down. This will circumvent behavioral issues later. It is not to be used for punishment. A crate should be purchased for the size your companion will be as an adult. To be sure of this look at the parents size, the female pup will most likely be like her dam and a male as the sire; generally speaking.

To not allow elimination a box should be placed in it blocking as much space as necessary. There should be only enough room to turn around easily but not to be break dancing in it! The size would then be expanded appropriately during growth. If elimination does occur it should be cleaned up without any fanfare and not in the presence of the pup. Also it should be cleaned with an appropriate cleaner preferably with an enzyme to remove all odors. I'm not a big advocate of bedding only because I have high energy dogs that will chew everything and I'm concerned of then ingesting something that may be hazardous. I do place a quality chew toy in for entertainment.

Initiating training should be done over a period of no more than a week. First it should be left open for the curious pup to enter and leave which they almost always gravitate naturally. They should be fed in it, a treat or toy tossed in giving a physical direction (pointing), with a verbal cue and simple verbal praise in the right tone. As soon as possible start closing the door for short periods of time from a couple minutes to five, then increasing appropriately. The door should never be opened to whining or barking. But the moment they desist then open it and walk away allowing the pup to follow. When they follow a short distance stop and praise in a simple manner.

If you use the crate to travel you are assuring the companions safety. Years ago I was at a dog show where a participant was in a severe accident in a large van, where she carried nine Great Danes in crates (kennels) all full grown dogs. This van was rolled several times, was twisted and damaged beyond belief. Unbelievably all nine dogs survived with minimum injury, just slight muscle damage. That's when I became a believer in containment during travel. Crates should be secured in the vehicle also with floor anchors or heavy bungee cords.

If you are having issues with a barker place them into the crate without word or without looking directly at the dog. Place in the crate, cover and leave without a spoken word. In five minutes come back, open and walk away. If barking continues replace in the kennel and cover as before and leave for a longer time. This acts as cause and affect, rather than personalizing or giving negative attention.

The crate/kennel is a tool and should be used as such for consistent behavior and your companions' safety. They should not be stuck in it when someone comes over or they will not learn correct behavior with guests. Crate/kennels should be cleaned appropriately.

Some of the other advantages are that you are taking their home with them plus they are accepted in motels/hotels etc. You should not be placing them in the kennel just before leaving but at various times even while at home and don't open the kennel upon immediately arriving. See William Campbell's, "How Dogs Think" article. (link: http://www.webtrail.com/petbehavior/dogthink.html) this a very worthy article for every owner. Another point of interest is that a ventilated floor be used for better air circulation and cleanliness. Feel free to email questions about this article.

Written by: Steve Estrada for "Gone to the Dogs" 2003