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Think you can't crate train an older dog? Think again! Crate training offers amazing benefits for dogs of all ages, creating a secure den that can ease anxiety and even help with house training. This guide shows you how to crate train an older dog using positive reinforcement. We'll cover everything from introducing the crate to addressing common challenges with adult dogs. Let's create a comfy space your furry friend will adore.
Don’t be discouraged, however. The crate training process for an older dog will only require a bit more patience and more repetitions. Despite the challenge, it is worth it to help your dog learn this skill.
Providing a comfortable den-like space within the crate is key. Soft bedding, familiar toys, and even a piece of clothing with your scent can create a calming environment. A crate offers a sense of control and predictability, which can be especially comforting for dogs experiencing cognitive decline. When the world feels overwhelming, the crate becomes a reliable retreat. This is especially important during stressful situations, such as thunderstorms or fireworks, when a senior dog might feel particularly disoriented and anxious.
Just as with any other aspect of crate training, introducing the crate to a senior dog experiencing cognitive decline should be done slowly and patiently. Short, positive sessions focused on building a positive association with the crate are crucial. Using high-value treats and praise to reinforce calm behavior inside the crate is a great way to start. Avoid forcing your dog into the crate, as this can exacerbate anxiety and create a negative association. Remember, the goal is to create a positive and comforting experience. If your dog seems hesitant or resistant, consult with a certified professional dog trainer or your veterinarian for guidance.
There are many types of standard crates that come in a variety of materials from plastic to wire. Wire crates are easy to come by and collapsable, making them easy to store away. Lightweight plastic crates are ideal for travel and plastic crates tend to be more budget-friendly, while a soft-sided nylon crate is a great option for smaller pups. If you are looking for a stylish option for your home, you can purchase an indoor crate or that blends seamlessly with the furniture in your home. Soft-sided carry crates are great for travel, but not recommended for long-term crating. Choose an option to be your dog’s permanent crate, so they always know where to go when stressed.
Once you’ve made your crate space complete, gather your training tools. Choose your dog’s favorite high-value treats or toys to make the training process fun.
Providing a quiet, comfortable den during stressful situations—like loud noises, parties, or thunderstorms—can give your dog a sense of control and help them cope with anxiety (Hill's Pet). The goal is to ensure the crate remains a safe, comfortable space, not a punishment zone (The Spruce Pets). If your dog seems stressed by the cover, try a lighter-weight material or leave the front partially uncovered so they can still see out. Introduce the cover gradually, starting with short periods and increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable.
You can also feed your dog in the crate during meal time, by either placing the bowl inside and leaving the door open while they eat, or tossing kibble into the crate for them in the same way you did with the treats or toys. By using the crate as a part of your routine for mealtimes, your dog will associate it more and more with a good thing instead of with frustration.
Don’t rush this step, it’s important to build positive experiences around the crate and show them that crate time is fun! If you’d like, you can even layer verbal commands or command phrase such as “kennel up” or “go to bed” when your dog is reliably going into the crate. The more you use this regular command, the more your dog will understand when to go into their crate.
Another effective strategy is to incorporate mealtimes into the crate training process. Try placing your dog’s food bowl inside the crate, again with the door open. This helps create a positive association between the crate and something enjoyable, like dinnertime. If your dog is hesitant, you can start by placing the bowl just outside the crate and gradually move it further inside over several meals. The goal is to make the crate a normal and pleasant part of their daily routine.
Initially, leave the crate door open while your dog enjoys these special items. This allows them to come and go as they please, reinforcing the idea that the crate isn't a confinement zone. As they become more comfortable, begin closing the door for short periods, gradually increasing the duration as they acclimate. Always supervise your dog during these initial closed-door sessions, and never force them to stay in the crate if they show signs of distress. If your dog whines or paws at the door, it's a sign they're not ready for longer durations. Read more about managing whining during crate training.
As your dog becomes more comfortable, you can start introducing a verbal cue, such as “kennel up” or “go to bed,” as they enter the crate. This helps them associate the command with the action. Keep the tone of your voice light and encouraging. Remember, the more positive experiences your dog has with the crate, the more likely they are to view it as a safe and comfortable space. Once your dog reliably enters the crate on command with the door open, you can move on to the next stage of training, which involves gradually closing the door for short periods. We’ll cover that in the next section. For now, focus on building that positive foundation – it’s the cornerstone of successful crate training.
Take your time with this step. Continue rewarding your dog with treats and praise each time they enter the crate after you give the cue. You’re building a strong association between the cue and the desired behavior. Eventually, your dog will reliably enter the crate when they hear the cue, even without a treat every time. This prepares you for the next training stage: closing the door.
You can also help your pup out by playing a white noise machine when they are in the crate alone. This can create a more soothing experience for your dog and they will settle for longer periods of time.
Sniffspot advises adding verbal commands like "kennel up" or "go to bed" when your dog reliably enters the crate. This repetition reinforces the behavior and clarifies expectations. The more positive experiences your dog has, the more likely they are to view the crate as a safe, comfortable space, similar to the secure environments available on Sniffspot for outings. Hill's Pet offers further valuable insights into crate training older dogs.
Maintain a light, encouraging tone throughout the process. Positive reinforcement builds your dog's confidence and strengthens your bond. Consistent commands establish a reliable routine, making crate time more enjoyable. For additional training resources or tips on strengthening your bond, explore Sniffspot's articles on finding dog trainers and choosing the perfect dog name.
Eventually, you may want to crate at night, and if that is your goal, try to take your dog in and out at the same time to create a recognizable schedule. Dogs find comfort and clarity in a firm routine, they are creatures of habit after all.
Puppies, as you might expect, require a different approach. Their tiny bladders and boundless energy mean they need much more frequent breaks than adult dogs. You'll find more information on crate training puppies on the Sniffspot blog. The key takeaway here is flexibility. Use the 2:1 rule as a guide, but don't be afraid to deviate from it based on your dog's individual needs. Paying attention to your dog’s cues and adjusting accordingly will ensure a smoother, more successful crate training experience for both of you.
Make sure the crate is extra cozy for overnight stays. A comfy bed, a favorite toy, and maybe even a blanket with your scent can help your dog feel secure. A consistent bedtime routine also helps. Just like us, dogs thrive on routine. Take them for a final potty break right before bed, then give them a small treat or chew as they enter the crate. This helps create a positive association with bedtime and the crate. For more tips on creating a positive crate experience, check out Sniffspot’s guide on crate training older dogs.
Never leave a dog crated for more than eight hours overnight. If you work long hours, consider hiring a dog walker or using a doggy daycare service for a midday potty break and playtime. Alternatively, you could leave your dog out of the crate in a dog-proofed room or area while you’re away, provided they are reliably house-trained and don't engage in destructive behaviors. For dogs who struggle with separation anxiety, a crate can actually provide comfort and security in your absence. Building up to a full night in the crate takes time and patience, but with a consistent approach and positive reinforcement, your older dog can learn to love their crate as a safe and comfortable place to sleep.
Patience is crucial throughout this process. Rushing can create negative associations with the crate and actually set you back. The key is to build positive experiences gradually. Experts agree that a gradual approach, focusing on positive reinforcement, is the most effective way to crate train an older dog. Remember, you’re building trust, not just teaching a trick. This means celebrating small victories and adjusting your approach as needed.
Start with short crate training sessions, just a few minutes at a time. Don't expect your dog to love the crate and settle in for hours right away. As your dog becomes more comfortable, gradually increase the time they spend inside. Once your dog is comfortable with shorter periods, you can try overnight crating, but never leave them crated for longer than eight hours, even if your ultimate goal is for them to sleep there. Remember, consistency and positive reinforcement are your best friends in this journey. Making the crate a positive and enjoyable space will make the process smoother for both you and your dog.
Start by having a family meeting to discuss the crate training plan. Explain the benefits of crate training, the steps involved, and the importance of consistency. Make sure everyone understands the chosen commands (like "kennel up") and the routine for introducing the dog to the crate. This shared understanding prevents mixed signals, which can confuse your dog and hinder the training process. Consistency is key when it comes to crate training, and a unified family approach sets the stage for success. Plus, it’s a great way to bond as a family while helping your furry friend adjust. Sharing responsibilities also helps distribute the workload and prevents one person from feeling overwhelmed.
Family members can also take turns rewarding the dog for positive behaviors associated with the crate. Whether it's entering the crate calmly, settling down quietly, or simply showing a relaxed demeanor, positive reinforcement goes a long way. Rewarding positive behaviors with praise, treats, or a favorite toy helps build a strong positive association with the crate. This shared responsibility not only reinforces the training but also strengthens the bond between your dog and each family member. It’s a win-win for everyone involved! You can find more tips on positive reinforcement in Sniffspot's guide.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article:
Hallie Wells
Owner-Lumos Dog Training, Atlanta, GA
Certified Professional Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
Applied Animal Behavior Analysts (UW-AABA)
Like humans, dogs need regular potty breaks. A general rule is adult dogs can hold their bladder for one hour for every month of age, up to a maximum of eight hours. Factors like size, breed, and individual health can influence this. Prioritize your dog’s comfort and adjust crating times as needed. Purina offers helpful resources on crate training.
Senior dogs, for instance, often need more frequent potty breaks than younger adults. Much like puppies, senior dogs may not be able to hold their bladder for extended periods. Puppies, of course, require even more frequent breaks and shorter crate times as they develop bladder control. A general guideline for adult dogs is one hour of bladder control for every month of age, up to a maximum of eight hours. However, this can vary based on breed and individual health conditions.
Always monitor your dog’s behavior for signs of distress. Whining, pacing, and excessive panting (not related to exercise or heat) can indicate discomfort. If you notice these signs, shorten the crating duration and try again later. Adjusting crate time based on your dog’s individual needs is essential for a positive crate training experience.
Absolutely! It might take a little extra patience and positive reinforcement, but even older dogs can learn to love their crates. Focus on building positive associations. Make the crate a comfy, inviting space with soft bedding and favorite toys. Introduce the crate slowly, using high-value treats and praise. Never force your dog inside.
How long can I leave my adult dog in a crate?
Generally, a house-trained adult dog can handle six to eight hours in a crate. However, this depends on your dog’s individual needs and bladder capacity. Senior dogs and those with medical conditions may need more frequent breaks. Puppies, of course, have much shorter bladder spans. Always monitor your dog for signs of distress, like whining, pacing, or excessive panting. If you see these, it’s time for a break.
My dog whines and barks constantly in the crate. What should I do?
Some whining or barking is normal, especially at first. If it’s excessive, make sure your dog has recently eliminated. If they continue to whine after a potty break, you might be pushing things too fast. Try shorter crate sessions and reinforce positive associations with treats and praise. A white noise machine or crate cover can also help create a calming environment.
What kind of crate is best for an older dog?
The best crate depends on your dog’s size, personality, and any physical limitations. Measure your dog to ensure they can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Wire crates offer good ventilation, while plastic crates provide more privacy and security. For senior dogs with mobility issues, consider a crate with a lower entry or a ramp. A soft bed or mat will add comfort.
My dog has separation anxiety. Is crate training a good idea?
If your dog’s separation anxiety is severe, crate training might not be the best approach initially. It could actually increase their anxiety. Consult with a certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist. They can help you address the underlying anxiety and develop a training plan that works for your dog. They may recommend alternative strategies or a modified approach to crate training.
Remove small objects that could be swallowed, like buttons, coins, or children’s toys. Secure trash cans with lids and keep food items out of reach. If your dog has a penchant for chewing, provide appropriate chew toys to satisfy their natural instincts. Sniffspot’s article on how to handle a dog chewing offers helpful tips on managing this behavior. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in keeping your furry friend safe and happy.
Mental enrichment is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions can keep your dog’s mind engaged and prevent boredom. Sniffspot’s guide to the best dog enrichment toys is a great resource for finding stimulating activities. Even simple activities like hiding treats around the house or teaching new tricks can provide mental stimulation. By providing a stimulating environment, you can help your dog thrive both inside and outside the crate. This balanced approach will make crate training easier and contribute to a happier, healthier dog.
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