Getting a new puppy is a very exciting time, however, it can also be daunting and a little...
Crate Training Your New Puppy at Night: The Ultimate Guide
Crate training your new puppy at night is a great way to ensure your pup's safety, comfort and wellbeing. It can be a daunting task for new puppy owners, but with the right guidance, it can be done quickly and easily. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to crate train your new puppy at night, as well as tips and tricks on how to make it successful.
What is Crate Training?
Crate training is a method of house training puppies by using a crate or kennel. It is a humane way to help puppies become accustomed to the routine of their new home and to understand their place in the family. The crate should be large enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around and lie down in comfortably.
When crate training, it is important to remember to make the crate a positive place. The crate should never be used as a punishment or as a place to confine the puppy for long periods of time.
Preparing Your Home for Crate Training
Before you start crate training your new puppy at night, there are a few things you should do to prepare your home.
- Provide a comfortable bed – make sure to get a bed that is soft and comfortable for your puppy.
- Provide toys and treats – put a few toys and treats in the crate to make your puppy feel at home.
- Keep the crate in a safe place – make sure the crate is in a safe place away from any potential hazards or distractions.
- Introduce your puppy to the crate – take some time to get your puppy used to the crate before you start crate training.
Step-by-Step Guide to Crate Training Your Puppy at Night
Crate training your new puppy at night is a great way to ensure your pup's safety, comfort and wellbeing. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Step 1: Set a routine – establish a routine for your puppy and stick to it. Try to feed your puppy at the same time every night and take them out for toilet breaks prior to bedtime.
- Step 2: Put your puppy in the crate – when it’s time for bed, put your puppy in the crate and give them a treat.
- Step 3: Stay with your puppy – stay with your puppy for a few minutes to make sure they’re comfortable and not distressed.
- Step 4: Leave the room – once your puppy is settled, leave the room and close the door.
- Step 5: Reward good behaviour – if your puppy is quiet and calm, reward them with a treat.
- Step 6: Monitor your puppy – if your puppy is distressed or barking, stay with them until they settle down.
- Step 7: Repeat the process – repeat the process each night until your puppy is used to being in the crate at night.
Tips and Tricks for Crate Training Your New Puppy at Night
Here are a few tips and tricks that can help you make the process of crate training your new puppy at night a success:
- Make the crate a positive place – make sure to give your puppy treats and toys in the crate, so that they associate it with positive things.
- Don’t leave your puppy in the crate for too long – puppies should not be left in the crate for more than four hours at a time.
- Don’t give in to barking – if your puppy is barking, don’t give in and let them out of the crate. This will only reinforce the behaviour.
- Be consistent – consistency is key when it comes to crate training. Make sure to stick to the same routine every night.
- Be patient – crate training can take some time, so be patient and don’t give up.
Conclusion
Crate training your new puppy at night is a great way to ensure your pup's safety, comfort and wellbeing. With the right guidance and a few tips and tricks, it can be done quickly and easily. Remember to make the crate a positive place, don’t leave your puppy in the crate for too long, don’t give in to barking, be consistent and be patient.
By following these steps and tips, you can rest assured that your puppy will be safe, comfortable and happy in their crate at night.