How to crate train a rescue puppy with separation anxiety

To crate train a puppy is a wonderful thing! First you need to find whatever word or phrase you like to use that means the crate.

For example I used "Box" because it's quick to say and distinct. I have heard others use "kennel up" or "crate", it doesn't matter what you say as long as you are consistent and don't try to change it

changing the command will confuse your puppy, so ok? You got your word? Let's start training!

Place your crate in a nice and open place, especially if your puppy has separation anxiety you want to put it in the room where you are the most. Ex. Living room, bedroom or a hallway.

Don't pile stuff on or around your anxious dogs crate. Mainly because it limits their vision and won't allow them to rest. Also because an unhappy dog will get bored and start chewing on it.

Put your dog bed or blankets in the crate and keep the door wide open, let your dog see it and explore. Throw a treat inside to entice them to go inside, don't command or force your dog into the crate

When your dog is relaxed point inside the crate and say your dog's name and the command example: "Lilly, Box" say this assertively but not too harsh.

It's ok don't worry this will take some practice. Try again until the dog goes in by itself

When your dog goes willingly into the crate on your command praise them and let them come directly out! That's it Don't shut the crate or lock them in This will instead lock into their brain our point

Having a companion dog if you have one is good to help your dog relax, the big black dog's name is Jake.

Our goal is for her to be totally comfortable and happy in the crate. Try to keep the excitement level down around them while they are in the crate at first

So you got your dog inside the crate willingly! Now how long do you leave him there? Start small, a minute, five minutes, 20 minutes never leaving your dogs sight.

Praise your dog every time you let them out! Let them know you are happy they stayed in the crate and was calm

After they can remain calm in the crate with you there walk out of the room to grab something to drink or something, only being absent for a few minutes

I would clean whatever room I was in and by the time I was done going in and out past my dog she was used to me coming and going.

After your dog is totally comfortable with your periodical absence, try leaving the house, if they remain calm leave for a little while, come back and let them out first thing, praise them!

If you are going to be absent for awhile place a few toys in the crate to prevent boredom

This will take a lot of patience and continuous work. But when all is said and done your dog will learn the crate is a comfortable place to be, and you will be able to crate your dog stress free

A happy crated dog!

When you are done you will be surprised how your dog will prefer to be inside the crate even when you aren't asking them to be,

keep the crate open all the time to allow them to sleep in it if they want. There you have it, good luck out there dog trainers! 😉