I crate trained Buddy but the crate was larger than needed. I wanted it
that way because I was not very comfortable with crate training anyhow.
I have since changed my mind because it did work.
I bought a soft bed for the back of the crate and put his toys in the front.
One of those white fluffy soft flat beds for the inside of crates. I covered
it with a towel even for more comfort. He had only a couple of pee accidents at the beginning. After 5wks he was completely trained.
OUr day started (he was 14 1/2 wks) at 6:00am. Right out of crate into
harness and out for a walk. Breakfast and water free play in kitchen out
again at 8:00am and into crate at 8:15. Went home for lunch, walked,
water and treat back into crate. Home at 5:30 (he was holding it during the
day) right out for a nice long walk, feed at 6:30, water and free run with
me through the house. OUt again around 7:30 and again at 10:00pm.
No water or food in crate and back into crate until 6:00am next day.
Weekend I took him out more during the day. Maybe every two hours because
he was not crated but ran free in the kitchen. After 5wks he was completely
trained. I watched him like a hawk during his free run. When I saw him start
to sniff around I scooped him up and out we went. I live on the second
floor so I sure got a work out those first 5wks with Buddy. It was worth
it. I believe that a schedule is very, very important. |