Puppies, Kids, and Dog Crates

You have a toddler and would like him to grow upAllow him some time to walk around and sniff before
with a puppy so he can learn to love animals andgoing potty. Let him smell where he has marked so
take responsibility. This is a great idea, provided youhe will find it the next go around. You want to praise
teach both puppy and child proper interaction.him when he goes and give him a small treat.
Toddlers like to be busy and they can help fill theWhatever way you decide to train him, make it
food and water dish as well as go with when youconsistent. They say if you repeat things three
take the dog on a walk. Getting a new puppy meanstimes, it stays in the memory bank, but it takes
you will need to housebreak him and train him tolonger to make it a habit. It is crucial that a puppy be
sleep through the night. Dog crates are the only waylet out of his dog crate every few hours during the
to go!potty training process. They don't like to eliminate in
If your schedule is a very busy one that requires youtheir dog crate, but their little bladders can only hold
to travel outside the home during the day; you willso much. If you are unable to let her out frequently,
need to invest in a safe and durable dog crate.please consult a trainer and discuss alternative
Puppies need to chew on things for theirmethods.
development. Furnish their dog crate with someA puppy's dog crate needs to have something soft
chewable toys to keep them from getting bored. Letand comfortable for him to sleep on. Hard surfaces
them know from the beginning that you will notraise havoc with their joints. Hard surfaces put too
tolerate them chewing on the furniture. This can bemuch pressure on their joints and because of the
done in various ways. You can use a spray designeddiscomfort their sleep and daily activities are
to discourage chewing or you can correct themaffected. A crate pad is a great choice. A favorite
when caught in the act with a firm sound of yourblanket is sufficient if you do not want to spend the
choice. Never just put them in their crate forextra money on a nice pad. At night, you will want to
punishment. You want them to go there willingly,place your puppy's crate in a warm area close to
especially at night.where you sleep. He needs to feel safe and secure
Housebreaking your puppy takes patience andand so both of you can get a good night's sleep.
planning on your part. Allow time to take him to theEnjoy the experience that a puppy can bring you and
designated spot to eliminate. First thing in theyour family.
morning, after meals and before bedtime are a must.