Crate training is an effective way to train your dog and provide them with a safe and comfortable space of their own. They can go to their kennel when feeling stressed or anxious, and the enclosed space of a crate can prevent them from wandering the house and getting into things they shouldn’t.

1. Benefits of Crate Training

Crate training has several benefits for both you and your pup. A crate can provide your dog with a safe, secure place to relax, rest, and decompress, especially when you’re not home. It can help with housebreaking and prevent destructive behaviors, as your dog won’t be able to chew on furniture and other non-toy items in the home. Additionally, a crate can help your dog when traveling with your dog or during vet visits!

2. Choosing the Right Crate

When choosing a crate for your dog, consider their size and weight, as well as their personality and behavior. A crate should be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can use one area for sleeping and the other for potty purposes. Some dogs may prefer an open-wire crate, while others may feel more secure in an enclosed crate. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s sturdy and safe.

3. Introducing Your Dog to the Crate

Introduce your pup to the crate gradually and in a positive manner. Place the crate in a quiet area of your home and leave the door open, allowing your dog to explore and sniff around the crate. Once they have satisfied their curiosity, begin feeding them meals inside and give lots of treats and praise when they enter voluntarily. Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate until they are comfortable for longer periods when you must leave or if you plan to kennel them at bedtime. Choose a command to tell them it’s time to enter the crate and make sure other members of your household use the same command to be consistent.

4. Crate Training Do’s and Don’ts

There are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when crate training your dog. Do make the kennel a comfy and positive space for your dog. Do not use it as punishment or leave your dog in the crate for extended periods of time. Make sure to provide enough exercise, stimulation, and attention outside of the crate daily. Never force your dog into the kennel or use it as a substitute for training or socialization.

Crate training can be a positive way to train your dog and provide them with a safe space. With patience and consistency, your dog can learn to love their crate and make it their very own cozy space.

Taking a road trip with your dog can be an exciting and memorable experience! Tails wagging, tongues rolling, laughter, and having your best friend by your side can make all the difference on a long car ride. However, it requires careful planning to ensure that both you and your pet have a safe and fun journey. Here are some tips and best practices for road-tripping with your dog.

1. Choose Dog-Friendly Destinations and Accommodations

When planning a trip out of town, it’s important to pick pet-safe and pet-friendly destinations and accommodations if you plan on bringing your furry friend. Research is key! Look for hotels, Airbnbs, or campsites that allow canines, and learn about some of the pet-friendly places and activities in that specific area. Many places have pet restrictions, so be sure to check out their policies before making the trek with your pup. If staying with family or friends, make sure they are aware your dog will be joining you and that they have the space and capacity to accommodate them.

2. Prep Your Pup for the Trip

Before hitting the road, try to gauge how comfortable your dog is with car rides. Do they get nervous? Shaking, whining, and drooling can be signs they are anxious. Take short rides with them to get them accustomed to being in the car for extended periods. If they’re a nervous rider, you can talk to your vet about safe anxiety remedies. Motion sickness may also be an issue, especially on extended car rides. Your vet can prescribe medication to help with car sickness.

Pack all their essentials in advance. Make a checklist with necessities such as food, water, bowls, leash/harness, medications, toys, treats, and a comfy bed or crate where they can sleep or decompress. Additionally, check with your vet that they are up-to-date on all vaccinations and have their collar on with an ID tag attached.

3. Guarantee a Safe and Comfy Ride

Make sure your dog is secure during the drive. Use a pet carrier or seatbelt harness to keep them in place and prevent them from moving around too much when on the road. The back seat is the safest place for your dog and be sure to not open the window to the point they could jump out. Even if your pup has ridden with his head out the window before, on long car rides pets can become anxious, and their behavior can change.

As far as comfort, make sure to take plenty of potty breaks along the way and let them stretch their legs. If your dog is an active breed, schedule out some time to stop by a park or running trail where you can get some of their energy out with a game of fetch or a walk. Double check you packed plenty of food and that they have access to plenty of fresh water.

Never, ever leave your pet alone in the car! The internal temperature of a car can rise and fall much faster than it does outside, and they’re at risk of theft if left alone.

4. Prepare for Emergencies

No matter how much planning you do to ensure the road trip is fun and safe for your dog, sometimes emergencies can happen. Be prepared with a pet first-aid kit and contact info for emergency veterinary clinics along your route. Keep a recent photo of Fido on hand in case they get lost.