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How to Crate Train a 7 Month Old Puppy

Crate training is an important part of puppy training that helps build good habits and keep your puppy safe. It can be a challenge, however, especially for a 7 month old puppy. This article will provide step-by-step instructions for how to crate train a 7 month old puppy as well as tips and tricks for making the process easier.

Establish a Routine

Before attempting to crate train, it is important to establish a routine for your puppy. This will help your puppy feel more comfortable in the crate and make the crate training process easier. Take your puppy out for walks and playtime at the same times each day and feed them at the same times as well. This will help your puppy learn to expect and look forward to these activities.

It is also important to begin crate training gradually. Start by leaving your puppy in the crate for short periods of time, such as 10 minutes, and gradually increase the time. This will help your puppy get used to being in the crate and help them feel more comfortable.

Make the Crate Comfortable

Making the crate comfortable is an important step in crate training your 7 month old puppy. Place a soft blanket or towel in the crate and make sure the crate is the right size for your puppy. You want your puppy to have enough room to stand up and turn around in the crate but not too much room that they can go to the bathroom in it. You can also place a few treats in the crate as a reward for your puppy when they enter.

It is also important to make sure the crate is in a comfortable location. Place the crate in an area that is quiet and free from distractions. This will help your puppy feel more relaxed and secure while in the crate.

Introduce Your Puppy to the Crate

Once you have established a routine and made the crate comfortable, it is time to introduce your puppy to the crate. Start by placing a few treats in the crate and encouraging your puppy to enter. Praise your puppy when they enter the crate and give them a treat as a reward. You can also place a few toys in the crate to keep your puppy occupied.

Once your puppy is comfortable entering the crate, you can begin to close the door. Start by closing the door for a few seconds and then opening it. Praise your puppy when they remain in the crate and give them a treat. Gradually increase the time that you leave the door closed and reward your puppy when they remain in the crate.

Crate Training Tips and Tricks

Crate training can be a challenging process, but there are a few tips and tricks that can make it easier. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when crate training your 7 month old puppy:

  • Be Patient: Crate training takes time and patience. It is important to be consistent and take things slowly. Don’t give up if it takes longer than expected.
  • Reward Good Behavior: Rewarding your puppy for good behavior is an important part of crate training. Give your puppy treats or praise when they enter the crate or remain in the crate for a certain amount of time.
  • Avoid Punishment: Punishment should never be used when crate training. If your puppy has an accident in the crate, simply clean it up and move on. Punishment can make the crate training process more difficult and could lead to negative behaviors.

Conclusion

Crate training can be a challenging process, but it is an important part of puppy training. With patience and consistency, you can successfully crate train your 7 month old puppy. Establish a routine, make the crate comfortable, and introduce your puppy to the crate. Use rewards to encourage good behavior and avoid punishment. With these tips, you can crate train your 7 month old puppy and help them build good habits.


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