Alright, so I decided to get a golden retriever puppy, super cute, right? But let me tell you, these little guys need some training, especially when it comes to being alone. That’s where the crate comes in. I did a bunch of reading online and decided to give crate training a go.
First things first, I needed a crate. I made sure to get one that wasn’t too big, just enough space for my pup to stand up and turn around comfortably. It’s important they don’t have too much room, or they might decide to use one corner as a bathroom – and nobody wants that!
Once I had the crate, I started by just leaving the door open and tossing treats inside. My little buddy was a bit hesitant at first, but who can resist a tasty treat? Eventually, he started going in on his own, sniffing around and grabbing the goodies. Success!
Next, I started feeding him his meals in the crate. Again, door wide open. This helped him associate the crate with positive things – food is always a win! He seemed to be getting more comfortable, so I moved on to the next step.
Now came the tricky part – closing the door. I started with just a few seconds, then gradually increased the time. Let me tell you, there was some whining and crying involved. It broke my heart, but I knew I had to be strong. I learned that it’s best not to give in to the crying, otherwise, they learn that crying gets them out. Tough love, right?
- Initially, there were a few accidents in the crate.
- I made sure to clean them up immediately with an enzymatic cleaner to completely remove the odor.
- I also made sure not to scold him for the accidents.
- Accidents happen, especially with puppies.
To make the crate a bit more inviting, I put a comfy bed and some of his favorite toys inside. I also tried covering the crate partially with a blanket to make it feel more den-like. Some folks recommend playing soft music, too, but I haven’t tried that yet.
Slow and Steady Wins the Race
It’s been a few weeks now, and we’re making progress. He can now stay in the crate for a couple of hours without a fuss. He still has his moments, especially at night, but we’re getting there. The key is to be patient and consistent. It’s not a race, and every puppy learns at their own pace.
Crate training definitely takes time and effort, but I think it’s worth it in the long run. It gives my pup a safe space to relax and helps with house training, too. If you’re thinking about crate training your golden retriever, I say go for it! Just remember to be patient, positive, and consistent. You got this!
