Crate training doesn't just apply to puppies. Given enough love, time, and the right method, older dogs can derive great benefits. Whether you are doing it for a bonded space, anxiety reduction, or house training, crate training for some adult or senior dog is certainly possible. How to Crate Train an Older Dog comes down to patience, consistency, and understanding their unique needs.
This will teach you how to train older dogs, including tips on crate training adult dogs, senior dogs, and those with separation anxieties. (With Tips for Crate Training an Adult Dog With Separation Anxiety)
-
Know Your Dog Well: How About Past Experiences?
Before beginning crate training of your older dog, consider his past experiences. Were they created? Are crates associated with poor memories, shelter, or trauma? All these things should be considered to bring empathy into the picture, if indeed any training is to be successful.
-
Find the Right Crate
Not just any type of crate will do for this sort of teaching, particularly in the case of older dogs that may have joint issues or anxieties.
Tips:
-
Size: Your dog should be able to totally stand, turn around, and lie down with comfort.
-
Type: Wire crates allow dogs to see their surroundings, while plastic crates tend to be protective.
-
Comfort: Place some orthopedic bedding or soft blankets in the crate to support aging joints.
-
Go Slow: Give Them Free Exploration
Older dogs require time to adjust. The crate itself should be left open in some common area for the dogs to explore freely. Treats or toys, or even meals could be given just inside the crate to set up positive associations.
Tip: Never drag or push an older dog into the crate; rather, encourage them to enter totally on their own accord. It should feel like a retreat, a safe haven-not a punishment.
-
Use Positive Reinforcement
Awarding the dog every time it shows interest in or enters the crate is fundamental. In doing so, the crate becomes a place associated with all things good.
What to do:
-
Be cheerful.
-
Use treats only after dogs have willingly entered the crate.
-
Give the dog a special toy or chew during crate time that he/she only gets inside the crate.
-
Gradually Extend Crate Time
If your dog appears happy, settled, and resting in the crate, start closing the door for short periods while you remain nearby.
-
Begin with 2-5 minutes.
-
Then progress to 30 minutes or longer.
-
Gradually increase the distance you move away while monitoring for signs of distress.
-
Crate Training an Older Dog With Separation Anxiety
This is probably the hardest but most rewarding.
Tips:
-
Start by keeping crate time short and pleasant.
-
Use sedatives: pheromones, play high-pitched noise, and give a clothing item you wore.
-
Keep the crate open while you are at home.
You could ‘desensitize' him or her by leaving home for very short periods and lengthening this over time. If severe anxiety is suspected, consult a trainer or veterinarian for advice before crate training.
-
Be Patient With Adjustments When Necessary
Older dogs may simply take longer to adapt as compared to puppies, potentially longer than you would wish. Maintain calm pressure; keep everything serene; reward progress, no matter how slow.
Conclusion: Old Dogs Can Have Crate Training After All
So here comes the final question: How do you crate train an older dog? With the proper tools in practice, lots of love, patience, and encouragement, a senior dog can learn to love the crate. This can especially benefit dogs with separation anxiety, which makes having a secure and familiar area tremendously important.
Whether you're crate training adult dogs, old dogs, or anxiously awaiting pets, just remember: slow and steady, a positive attitude, and a moment of trust. It's never too late for a dog to learn something new - especially when that something new is taught with love.
