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We’ve been spending a lot of time focused on crate training and how to crate train your dog recently. Why have we been so focused on it? Crate training, if that is the route you are planning to go, is a long process and you must have dedication and commitment and stick to the training in order for it to work properly. You don’t want your dog to dread the crate – you want them to love it and look forward to their alone time or a place for solace. The only way that will happen is if you follow our guide and only move at a pace that your dog is comfortable with.

To summarize and simplify our crate training series, I put together my list of the top 5 things you should do when you are crate training and the top 5 things to avoid while crate training. Good luck!

Top 5 “Dos” of Crate Training

• DO exercise your pet before crating
• DO place the crate in a quiet corner of a frequently used room
• DO make their crate comfortable and inviting
• DO provide appropriate toys and treats in the crate [only if your pup can be trusted with toys while unsupervised – use your judgement]
• DO choose a crate that will be the appropriate size when your pup grows up

Top 5 “Don’ts” of Crate Training

• DON’T use the crate for punishment
• DON’T force your dog into the crate
• DON’T leave dogs in the crate for a long periods of time
• DON’T let children or adults tease your crated dog
• DON’T rush the crate training process

If you’re looking for more information on how to crate train your dog, check out my full crate training guideon thatpetplace.com. You’ll find specific details on each step of the crate training process and some of the commonly encountered problems and how to deal with them.

If you’re just starting the crate training process be sure to leave us a comment and let us know if our guides have helped you. We’d also love to know what kinds of problems you’re running into while trying to crate train your dog. Leave us a comment and we will consult with our experts to try to come up with a solution to help.