Does your puppy or dog have a problem going into their crate or staying in their crate for any length of time? 

You can change the way that they feel about going into their crate by using a frozen stuffed Kong. 

The only time that they will be allowed access to one of these is while they are inside the crate with the door closed.

This could be while you are home or away.

Make sure the Kong is not too small for your dog. It is not meant to be a chew toy!

While you are home, take the Kong away or lock it inside the crate so your dog won’t have access to it.

This is so that your dog associates the Kong with being inside the crate.

Peanut butter or canned pumpkin may be used in your dog’s Kong. However, I would recommend using plain yogurt for puppies or dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Mix some of your dogs’ kibble with a small amount of plain yogurt. Place a tablespoon of the mixture inside the bone, place the bone in the freezer overnight.

You may need to teach your dog to go into his crate on command first. Toss a treat into the crate and say “Crate”. Do several repetitions.

Once your dog is walking in and out of the crate on his own, tell him “Crate” and give him the Kong and shut the crate door.

If your dog does not interact with the Kong and wants to come out, let him. Then lock the Kong inside the crate.

At this point, he may paw at the crate to go back in. Let him.

Continue this until he understands that he will only have access to the Kong while in the crate with the door shut.

You want to have at least 2 Kong’s and prepare them at night and place into the freezer. This way you will always be ready to crate your dog when you leave the house.

Grab the Kong, tell your dog “Crate”, drop the Kong inside the crate, lock the door and leave the house.

Teaching your dog to associate positive experiences with their crate is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind.

Instead of leaving them with a eatable bone or toy that could potentially be a choking hazard, consider using a Kong filled with treats or peanut butter.

By following a gradual process of providing access to the Kong only while in the crate with the door shut, your dog will learn that being in their crate is a safe and enjoyable place to be.

This method helps to prevent any negative associations with being confined and can also help with separation anxiety.

Be patient and consistent in your training, and soon enough, your furry friend will happily retreat to their crate for some much needed downtime.

KONG Classic

Crate

Disclaimer

Advice and opinions provided here are the opinion of Dog Smart Atlanta and are not to be construed as legally binding in any way. This website is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical or legal concern, please contact a professional who can address the issue.

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