Older pup crate training

fireangel · #1 12th February 2008, 03:37 PM

OK so Jade up until this point hasn't been put in her crate and door shut. She lays in her crate but I have never asked her to go into it and then shut the door. I was wondering since she is older and does kind of have a fear of her crate (has to be covered with a blanket so not much wire shows) how I go about getting her in it and shutting the door without scaring her? I want to be able to put her in the crate when we have to leave without her and at night but I am afraid of scaring her and making her hate it. Up until now she has been confined to one area and I have just been cleaning up after any accidents. Also since this will be her first crate experience and again she is older so it isn't like with a puppy, how long can I leave her in there the first few times? Any advice please!

simmons · #2 13th February 2008, 07:58 AM

I would start out with a few seconds.....O.K maybe a minute

with you there. Once she goes in willingly give her a treat and lots of praise. Keep doing this and working your way up to a few minutes at a time. It may take a few days (or even longer) Then when you think she feels pretty comfortable with the door shut, then maybe try leaving the room or house for a couple minutes.

Make it extra comfy and maybe put a good stuffed-filled kong to keep her busy. When we leave the house we always keep the radio or TV on for them

Hopefully someone else has some more adivce for you!!
Good Luck!!