Golden Retriever Crate Training

Some people might have a different view regarding Golden Retriever crate training and consider it a way of punishing a dog, yet the fact is a crate is one of the safest places for dogs, particularly Golden Retrievers. Crate training is required for your Golden Retriever to maximize the benefits of having an obedient dog.

Crates are safe and secure places where your Golden Retriever can go when anyone is not at home or are unable to look after your puppy directly while doing something else. Crates serve a dual purpose; they keep your pet safe and sound and keep the owner worry-free every time you are not around. Besides, crates also gratify the natural instincts of Golden Retrievers to live in a den. The crate training helps the dog to realize that the crate is a safety zone where it can feel comfortable. Crate training builds Golden Retriever’s confidence while eliminating confusion to his new surroundings.

In addition to the safety aspect for your Golden Retriever crate training aids in house training, obedience training, potty training, and unwanted chewing. A crate should provide a safe sleeping environment, and as such it should not be placed in an area where there is a lot of traffic, however, the area should be central to the family. From crate training you can also help your Golden Retriever to adjust to a regular schedule for sleeping, going outside, etc. Words of praise and treats will encourage your Golden Retriever to play in the crate.

When you start crate training, do not forget to place new and exciting toys in the crate, this will engage your Golden Retriever and divert his attention from other things. When a few days have passed, you can start leaving the door of the crate open and coach your dog to go inside whenever he is tired and sleepy. In this way, your Golden Retriever develops a liking for the crate, nevertheless, crate training should not be overdone and your pet should not be allowed to stay too long in the crate. While crate training a Golden Retriever, special care should be taken that a barking Golden Retriever is not let out of the crate. Once your dog has become used to the crate, leave it to your dog’s will to go in and out of it whenever he likes. To capture his attention, you can add the command “Crate” or “Inside” or “Home”.

If your Golden Retriever shows some sign of discomfort during crate training, do not remove it immediately. Instead, comfort it by your physical presence; show your love by touching and patting it. This will give it a sense that everything is alright and after it settles down, take it out of the crate. The timing of Golden Retriever crate training should be slowly increased and long stretches of time should be totally avoided. Again, patience is the key to successful crate training. Build their confidence through positive reinforcement and praise for performing the task correctly. Shouting, yelling, or any type of harsh commands must not be used during Golden retriever crate training.

The crate should be big enough so that Golden Retrievers can move; the best recommended size for smaller Golden Retrievers is 24W x 26″H x 32″L and 28-30″W by 30-32″H x 36″L for larger Golden Retrievers. It is best to use plastic crates and old towels as bedding for your Golden Retriever. Crate training should be started when the puppy is of 8-10 weeks of age. 3 hours is the maximum time that you should put them in crate and when they grow a bit older, say 12-16 weeks, four hours is the rule. Irrespective of age, a Golden Retriever should not be kept in a crate for longer than 6 hours.