Crate training is a great way to help your dog feel comfortable and secure while you are away, as well as protect your home from damage caused by anxious dogs. Tips for effectively crate training your dog:

• Get a crate that is large enough to allow your dog to stand and move comfortably.
• Place a towel in the bottom of the crate to keep your dog warm.
• Give your dog appropriate toys (chew toys, kong, etc.) to play with in the crate.
• Always feed your dog in the crate.
• At first, get your dog used to going in the crate without closing the door or leaving.
• Start by leaving your dog alone in the crate with the door closed for a few minutes and gradually build up to leaving your dog for several hours at a time.
• When you come home, don’t rush to let your dog out of the crate or your dog will look forward to the event too much. Unlock the crate only after your dog has been quiet and calm for a few minutes.

For more information about crate training, ask your veterinarian about AAHA’s Crate Training behavior pamphlet.