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Puppy Training

Crate Guilt

Crate guilt is a common feeling for puppy owners who worry about using a crate as part of training. However, with the right approach, a crate can become a safe and comforting space for your puppy, and you can ease your guilt by focusing on the benefits and your puppy’s well-being. Here’s how to manage crate guilt and ensure a positive experience:

  1. Understand the Purpose of the Crate
  • A crate mimics a den-like environment, which many dogs find naturally comforting.
  • It provides a safe space where your puppy can relax and avoid potential hazards when unsupervised.
  1. Use the Crate Positively
  • Avoid Using it as Punishment: The crate should be associated with positive experiences, not as a place for “time-outs.”
  • Reward Crate Time: Offer treats or praise when your puppy enters the crate voluntarily.
  1. Stick to Appropriate Crating Times
  • Puppies should not spend excessive time in the crate. Follow these general guidelines:
  • Balance crate time with plenty of exercise, play, and social interaction.
  1. Gradually Build Positive Associations
  • Start with short sessions and gradually increase the time spent in the crate.
  • Leave the crate door open at first and encourage your puppy to explore it on their own.

Talking to other pet owners or trainers can help you feel more confident and less isolated in your decision to crate train. At Colonial Village Labradoodles we are happy to talk with you and encourage you as you crate train your Australian Labradoodle. Your puppy will thrive when crate training is done thoughtfully and compassionately.

 

About CVL

Colonial Village Labradoodles is Indiana’s premier labradoodle breeder. We raise multi-generational Australian Labradoodle and Australian Bernedoodle puppies with a purpose. Our dogs are bred for their therapy-oriented temperaments and allergy-friendly coats.

What is a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle?

Multi-generational Australian Labradoodles are a cross between many different parent breeds. The breed originated in Australia in the 1980s with the intent of creating an allergy-friendly service dog for the blind. Australian Labradoodles are a combination of a Poodle, Labrador Retriever, English Cocker Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel, and Irish Water dogs. These breeds were hand-selected for specific breed qualities to create the ideal service dog for those with allergies. Since then, the breed has continued on and spread across the world. Australian Labradoodles are now considered their own breed with its own breed clubs (ALAA and WALA).