Rule Of Thumb | Dog And Puppy Training Tips And Advice

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Need some advice on crate training/housebreaking a 6 wk old puppy.?

We just got a 6 wk old puppy. We are trying to housebreak and crate train her. does anyone have some good tips that have worked for them???

Basically, if the puppy is unattended or at night, the puppy goes in the crate. take it out every 2-3 hours to go potty, first thing in the morning, last thing before going to bed and after it eats and/or drinks water, then if you're not going to play/spend time with it, it goes back in the crate. When you get up at night to let her out, bring her outside, then immediately put her back in the crate so she doesn't think it's playtime.

Just remember, the rule of thumb to use for how long she can hold it is # of Months, +1, so if she's 1 1/2 months, then 2 1/2 hours. this includes night time.

Listening to the puppy cry is all part of crate training. If she cries immediately, or after 1 hour, IGNORE her. Don't talk to her, don't let her out. If she cries and you let her out, then she'll train you to open the door every time she cries. It takes a little time for them to get used to the crate, but once they accept it, they'll see it as their Den and go in by themselves if the door is left open.

If she's out playing and has an accident, then yell or clap to distract her, tell her no and immediately take her outside. If you don't catch her, don't scold her, she'll have no idea why you're yelling at her. In either case, make sure you clean the spot well.

Never use the crate as punishment – You want to associate the crate with being a good place. Praise her when she goes in.

Most importantly, have patience and keep her on a consistent routine.

I used to own a great dane. he was house trained quickly. We followed some simple rules, and those constantly. 1. We always went out the same door, the back door to the garden. 2. AT the beginning I went out with him every half hour, even if he didn't have to go, he got used to it, then we increased it every hour, and so on. 3. during the time we went to sleep or the time we could not take him out, we had newspapers by the door to the garden. (we had tiles, so that was ok ) and when he "went" he always went only on the paper, since he was waiting on the door to go out. 4. Every time he "went" outside to do his business we petted him and told him he was a good boy.. – of course all of those things changed once he got older, and worked for this dog… I had some other dogs, this wouldn't have worked at all… just telling you what worked for us.

i put puppy pads down, they worked for our dog.

We crate trained our puppy about the same age.. here is what we did, we started out just letting her go in and play and then when she would go in and stay we put toys in there with her to keep her busy and would cover her with a blanket in a quiet room. we would leave her for like a half hour and then times got longer. she is now 1 1/2 and she loves her crate that is her safety spot.

the crate will work well to keep her out of trouble, but it all at that age. she/he will still do it's business in the cage at 6 weeks. give the dog a few weeks & then try.

first of all a 6 week old puppy should still be with momma, never get a puppy younger then 8 weeks, and as for crate training for potty purposes i don't believe in that, is this where he/she will sleep? then don't make him/her do potty in sleeping area. take puppy out every 2-3 hours until he/she is old enough to tell you when they need to go. if you need to leave puppy alone get some puppy pee pads and put him/her either in kitchen or bath but cover floor with pads.

Allow her to go in and out as she pleases when she doesn't have to be in it so it doesn't become a bad place to her. When you put her in there either for the night or because you are leaving do not make a big production out of it. Just take a few of her favorite toys set them in there grab a real tasty treat put her in lock the door give her the treat and walk away. the more fuss you make the more fuss she will make about having to go in. When she is in there ignore the crying and barking-no talking to her,looking at her or anything. make sure for the night crating you take away water 3 hours before bed and take her out to potty immediately before that way she will not have to wake up so much during the night. When she does wake up to go potty during the night take her out to potty,put her in her crate give her a treat and walk away. the more you can make her crate a "hideaway" and a positive thing the easier crate training will be on all of you:>)

Take the puppy out first ting she wakes up and after every time she eats or drinks and the last time at night and when you put her down to go potty tell her to go potty and when you bring her back in give her a treat at the door. I have never used a crate for any of my dogs and when they was puppies we put them in bed with us at night and they slept all night long a puppy wont go pot where they sleep

We have 2 dogs, one is 4 months, one is 5 years and we crate trained them both. the biggest thing we learned was to be consistent. 6 weeks is really young, our puppy was 8 weeks and that was very young too. She is 4 months now and is just getting the hang of things. It takes time, consistency and lots of patience. Not sure how you're doing the housebreaking, for us with both dogs, we put them on the leash and went to the same spot in the yard and said "Go pee/poo" and just waited until they did their business, then gave lots of praise and a treat right away. No business, no treat, they both got it pretty quick. with a puppy so young we would take ours out just about every 1.5 hours, I found it helped to set a timer so I didn't forget. also, at 6 wks the puppy can't stay on its own in a crate for too long until it learns to listen to its body and to "hold it". make sure the crate is big enough that the pup can stand up and turn around in but not big enough that there is a place to eliminate in. But again the biggest thing I found was consistency, when my dog(s) made a mess in the house I had to remember that it was my fault for not being on top of things, not theirs. You should start to see signs of needing to pee/poo, the dog may start sniffing, circling, running away to a different room etc. good luck, it can be very stressfull and it's tough work but it will be worth it in time. We've been "mess-free" for well over a month now

You will need take your puppy outside every 30 Min's in between eating and drinking and 5-10 Min's right after eating. And be sure to praise her when she does go….and use the word "OUTSIDE" to get her used to that word and associating with what she has to do. If she has an accident do not yell at her or rub her nose in it…Just pick her up and take her outside, if she poops in the house pick the poop up and take it out side with her to show her that she is to go outside….and make sure you take her out in the middle of the night at least twice. Always praise your puppy for doing good.

I had to 2 crates: One travel one for going in the car and one big one for the house. I left toys in there, I even was able to find bowls to put on the side of his crate to have water and food. When anyone in the family left we had put him in there, he had one of my old T-shirts (unwashed) and a toy that came with him, that his brothers and sisters played with, and I left the radio one for him, and he did great….he never cried or whined, but you may have to put her in there and leave the room for a few minuets , then come back and let her out…the number one thing on training is repetition and staying on top of things. It will take time… good Luck and enjoy your new puppy.

when you buy a crate make sure it has the divider in it.. so that way when you cage the pup it onyl has enough room to turn in circles.. might sound mean but it works i swear.. with house training.. use puppy pee pads that have the grass sent to them.. u can purchase them at pets stores.. and if he does happen to pee or poop in the house.. or let me say when he does.. take it outside and have it smell it out there..

Need some advice on crate training/housebreaking a 6 wk old puppy.?

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The Importance of Dog Kennels

If you are thinking about getting a puppy or a dog, then no doubt you have done some research about the best way to train them to make sure they are going to be a wonderful addition to your home. You only need to do a little research to know that dog kennels are the best, more successful way to have your puppy trained in a matter of days. The reason teaching your dog to behave in a kennel is effective is because when your puppy is in a kennel, he is less likely to get into something he should not elsewhere in the house. Many puppies die because they eat something that is poisonous in their first year. Kenneling can keep your dog safe.

Some people think that dog kennels are cruel or mean. Actually, if you get a kennel that is the right size for your dog, it will become a safe place that they will look forward to every day. Because dogs started off in caves and dens, the kennel actually speaks to a dog’s instincts to want to be tucked away comfortably in a small space. How do you choose the right size dog kennel? The rule of thumb is that you want the kennel to be big enough to allow the dog to stand and turn around to eat. You don’t want to get a kennel that is too big because then your dog might have anxiety. Dogs tend to have an easier time relaxing when they have just enough room to stand.

When you finally do decide on the right dog kennel, you then need to get a few accessories to put inside of it. If you have a puppy, in order to combat separation anxiety, put a blanket or towel in the kennel that smells like you. Since dogs rely very heavily on scent, this will remind them of you and they will be comforted. In addition, when you first start introducing your dog to the kennel, take your time.

You should not leave your dog alone in the kennel for many hours at first. You must gradually build to that amount of time. When you are first getting your dog used to the kennel, it should only be supervised short durations of time. If your dog begins to bark or whine, redirect the dog’s attention and correct it. Only let them out of the kennel after they have stopped barking or whining. If you let them out when they are whining or barking, you are creating a bad habit for them.

The Importance of Dog Kennels

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Rattan Dog Crates

Are you tired of having the same old styles of dog crate in your home? You know the kinds we’re talking about, the steel cages, the big plastic kennels and the newer fabric crates. Wouldn’t you just love to find a dog crate that is not only sturdy and functional, but also looks great in your home as well? You can have all of this when you decide to use rattan dog crates.

A Versatile Piece of Furniture

If you have decided to purchase a rattan dog crate, you are actually getting a functional piece of furniture, if you want it to be. If you already decorate your home with rattan and wicker, rattan dog crates will be an awesome looking addition to the room. Many people who own these crates say that they have had glass cut to place on top of their crates, which then become lovely end tables that you can set things on (of course, if you have a rambunctious dog, you may want to not put anything breakable on top, just in case).

Why Should I Crate Train My Dog?

There are a couple of reasons why dog owners should crate train their pets. For starters, this is an excellent way to house train a dog, and if you work all day, it is necessary to avoid little messes all over the house. Also, dogs like to feel secure, and having a crate is similar to the dens of their wild cousins, and they feel safe and secure while inside. Having your puppy in a crate, but still near you may help with separation anxiety, and they are also great to keep your dog in while you are cleaning, so it doesn’t get into any poisonous chemicals. It should only take two or three weeks at the most to have your dog completely crate trained, and some are ready within a few days.

Choosing The Right Crate Size

The size of your dog is the most important consideration when it comes to purchasing rattan dog crates, or any other dog crates for that matter. A good rule of thumb to remember is that the cage should be at least six inches taller than the dog at the head while standing, and at least six inches longer than the actual length of the dog. Here are some more tips that you should keep in mind when buying rattan dog crates:

Small crates are for toy breeds (Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, etc.)

Medium crates are for medium breeds (terriers, corgis, etc.)

Large crates are for large breeds (retrievers, labs, setters, etc.)

Rattan dog crates are an excellent choice for crate training your dog. Not only are they a sturdy, well-made type of dog crate, they will also look great in your home.

Rattan Dog Crates

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Dog Crates Give Your Dog a Comfortable Home Within Your Home

One of the many fine dog crates on the market can be the best friend you and your pet will ever have. While it may seem like some sort of “cage” to you and I, your animal will regard it as his own personal indoor dog house, a security blanket of sorts where he can go to sleep or escape. Travel models have the added advantage of providing the comfort of home for your animal while in strange or different surroundings.

They come in many different styles, shapes and sizes. A general rule of thumb about dog crates are that they should only be big enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down easily. Ideally, it will be just large enough for the animal to sleep on his side, with his legs stretched out. If buying a travel model, measure your vehicle first to make sure it will fit, or you could be in for a nasty surprise!

How much do dog crates cost?

You can expect to pay in the range of $50-$125 for a good quality model for medium to large-sized animals. While this might seem a tad steep, keep in mind that it will most likely last for your pet’s entire life, and even beyond. Properly used, they can provide true happiness for both owner and pet, and the initial cost is soon forgotten.

This can often be a difficult purchase for those with growing puppies. If it’s within your budget, you might want to check out the types that include dividers, so it can grow along with your puppy as time goes by.

For the largest selection, and often the best value, some of the biggest pet retailers on the net may be your best bet. You’ll find various styles, materials and prices. Some are sturdier or more convenient than others. No matter which way you go, dog crates go a long way to provide a “home within a home” for your pet.

How do I use the crate to train my dog?

It is important a puppy to be trained to use a crate in order to save time and effort in cleaning up after them while they are still being potty trained.
Believe it or not, a puppy is genetically pre-disposed to needing a den.

Though you may have furniture that a puppy likes to lay on, they really need something that is completely enclosed, giving them a sense of security and comfort. Isolated rooms in your house are simply too big for puppies, and can leave them nervous, anxious, and even destructive.

Once your pup is housebroken, then you should leave the crate open for them for the entire day. You will likely find that that your puppy will willingly go into the crate to take a nap at various points in the day. When you have to leave for awhile, you can put the dog in the crate, but not for more then four hours at a time.

Remember, even though we as human beings don’t wish to be placed in a tiny area where you only have enough room to turn around, you must keep in mind that dogs are not like people. Their ancestors would find safety, shelter, and comfort in their dens. Dogs today find solace and safety inside their crates in the same manner.

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Mike Long runs a dog training website that focuses on educating people about the different ways of training your dog or puppy. If you would like to learn more, including additional articles, and training tips, tricks, and ideas, check out his site at dogtraininginfo.wordpress.com.

Housetraining Your Pit Bull

To begin the house training process with your Pit Bull puppy, you need to first determine a suitable place outside your house where he can relieve himself. Once you have found that place, give your puppy a little tour around to let him get acquainted with the new area.

The next step is to restrict his/her freedom inside the house. Your Pit Bull puppy is less inclined to relieve himself near his sleeping quarters. By restricting him to certain areas in your house, he will be more likely to hold himself. However, do not make him wait too long. Even if your Pit Bull puppy is physically strong, he still has very weak control over his bladder and bowel movements. In fact, any dog is physically incapable of controlling their bladder until they are approximately 14 weeks of age.

If you do not find the time to take him outside often enough, and whenever he needs to go, then you leave him with no other choice but to relieve himself on your carpet. Once you notice that he needs to use the bathroom, then you need to take him outside immediately and stay with him until he has finished relieving himself. As soon as he is finished doing his deed, remember to reward him with praise and plenty of treats to let him know how pleased you are.

Do not expect more from your Pit Bull puppy than he is physically able to do. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that a puppy can hold his bowels for as many hours as his age in months. For example, a three-month old puppy can hold it in for about three hours.

There is however, a limit to this rule. It is sensible not to expect your twelve-month old puppy to hold his bladder or bowel movements for twelve hours. If he is forced to stay inside the house for longer than you can reasonably expect him to hold it in, you are causing an accident to happen. At the same time, you are teaching your puppy to go in the wrong place. Installing a doggy door is a very effective way to house train your Pit Bull puppy. Once he gets the idea and becomes familiar with where he needs to go, he will usually let himself out to do his deed while you are gone.

When he relieves himself inside the house, he labels that area as his bathroom and will likely to go there again. If your Pit Bull puppy does have an accident in your house, clean and deodorize the area thoroughly and then block his access to that area. If you catch him in the act, say “no” in a firm voice and rush him outside. Punishing him for relieving inside your house will not help him learn any faster and in fact can hinder progress.

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Gene Sower is the publisher of the Happy Housetraining ebook. Get the FREE “Housetraining Report” by signing up here: www.lucy-the-dog.com/frehousrep.html.

How to Turn the Mini Jail Crate into Your Dog’s Natural Den

There is more to the crate than meets the eye. It provides a safe haven for your puppy and frees up time for you to go about your daily chores without worrying for the security of your new pup. Those who are not aware of the usefulness of a crate will see it as a form of torture for dogs, however, if crate training is carried out properly, it can be a fun and rewarding for both you and your puppy. It’s effectiveness cannot be denied, as shown by the number of professional dog trainers who swear by it when potty training.

Getting the Right Crate Size – An ideal dog training crate should be large enough to allow your dog to stretch out without hitting his head and allow him to be able to turn around easily. The size of the crate is consider too large if you find your dog relieving himself in one corner and playing and sleeping in another. You can block off and make the crate smaller by blocking off certain section with wooden cardboards if your pup is still young.

Critical Crate Training Rules – You must introduce the crate slowly to your dog when you begin crate training. Crate him in short intervals, about 10 minutes, and gradually increase the duration over time. All dogs need some time to get used to staying in the crate. Do not leave your dog in the crate for more than thirty minutes when you begin to crate train him.

It is not recommended to left a pup in a crate for long hours. Your puppy should have the chance to exercise and urinate before being crated. Dogs are fastidious creatures and have no desire to soil the surroundings of their private spaces. However, he might be forced to relieve himself if you cruelly lock him in for longer than he can hold it in.

A rule of thumb to gauge how long your puppy should be in his crate is to add an hour to his age in months. For example, a puppy who is two months old must not be left in a crate in excess of three hours.

It’s common for pups to bark and moan to attract your attention while in the crate. If any of these things happen when he is in the crate, do not give him any attention! Yes! Do not even look in his direction.

Dogs are intelligent animals. Do not let on that he will be able to get your attention and change your mind when he is upset. Simply ignore him. Reward your dog with a little treat or praises only when you find him behaving well in the crate.

Offer a treat or toy to distract and calm your pup down if necessary. No matter what you do, you must not let your pup out of the crate, this is a very critical moment where you must not give in.

If you notice that your dog displays hyper active behavior as compared to before, you might be crating him for too long. If your dog starts to chew on himself, let him out immediately and consult a trainer or behaviorist.

Below are some suggestions and tips to aid you in crate training your puppy:

1. To make it easier for your pup to accept his crate, play with him there, or spent time near the crate doing whatever you like, reading or playing video games while he is busy playing with his new toy. If he is there all by himself, he begins to associate the area with isolation and may resist being there at all.

2. Start crate training at the start of dinner. Give him his food, one piece at a time, by throwing bits of kibble in to the crate and making him search for it. This is one of the many ways that you can do to make crate training fun for him.

3. You can place his favorite toy, or even surprise him with treats hidden in the crate for him. To surprise him, you can even hide a biscuit in the crate – that’s fun!

4. It is not advisable to keep him in the crate for long periods until he is pressured to relieve himself. If you are gone for long periods each day, you should consider a larger confinement area such as an exercise pen or a small room.

5. The best place to place the crate would be where your puppy can see the environment and family members, hear and smell you, the owner.

6. Do not punish your dog in his crate, it will backfire. Your pup will tend to enjoy his stay in the crate more readily if you can make him associate crate stay with a time for fun. The crate is suppose to be your dog’s natural den where he feels safe and comfortable, not where he’ll be punish and associate it with “bad things”.

7. Crate training cannot be used as a permanent solution to ensuring your dog is kept safe without supervision. Pups must not be left in crates alone for long period of time. Your training duration will be affected greatly if you crate him for too long and he urinate in the crate.

In sum, crate training is a necessary training tool when instilling obedience. The main benefits are to provide the owner with a peace of mind knowing that the dog is safe, reduce unwanted destructive behaviors in the house and make it easier to travel during short term confinement, whenever the owner requires it

security, safety, reduce potentially destructive behaviors, add to the ease of traveling and protection for short term confinement, whenever the owner needs it. It is a vital lesson that all pups should pick up since young.

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Moses Wright is a dog lover and owner of Dog Obedience Tips site. He loves to help dog owners with their dog problems and do so by consolidating his years of dog ownership experience into a free book filled with simple yet powerful dog training tips: Free Dog Problems Book