The Benefits of Crate Training for Shih Poos

Britta Thygesen 27.04.2023 0

Picture this: You walk into your house after a long day of work, only to find that your beloved Shih Poo has somehow managed to tear apart your new couch. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, then you might want to consider crate training your furry friend. While some may view crate training as cruel or unnecessary, it can actually be extremely beneficial for both the dog and the owner. In this article, we will explore the safety and security benefits of crate training, as well as how it can be used as a valuable training tool for establishing routine and boundaries. We’ll also provide some helpful tips for successful crate training and address common concerns about this practice. So, grab a treat and cozy up with your furry friend as we delve into the world of crate training for Shih Poos.

Safety

When bringing a new furry friend into your home, safety is a top priority. This is especially true when it comes to the Shih Poo breed. These adorable pups are known for their small size and mischievous personalities, so it’s important to take steps to keep them safe and out of harm’s way. One such step is crate training. By creating a safe space for your Shih Poo to call their own, you can prevent destructive behavior and protect them from household hazards. And the best part? Crate training can be a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your pup. To learn more about positive training techniques for your Shih Poo, check out our positive training guide.

Prevents Destructive Behavior

Crate training is an effective way to prevent destructive behavior in Shih Poos. A Shih Poo puppy who is not crate trained may destroy furniture, shoes, or other household items while you are out. For example, your curious pup may chew up electrical wires or eat something that could cause a dangerous blockage in their digestive system. However, by crate training, you can provide a safe and secure space for your Shih Poo to stay in while you are out of the house.

Accordingly, crate training will prevent your Shih Poo from behaving destructively while you are out. Destructive behavior results from anxiety and fear. When your Shih Poo is not trained to stay alone, it can develop separation anxiety, which can cause it to scratch doors and windows, bark incessantly, howl, or even relieve itself indoors. Crate training provides a solution to such behavior by giving your Shih Poo a place that feels safe and comfortable. In fact, crate training helps to reduce stress and keeps your furry friend relaxed even when you are not at home.

Crate training also provides a safe haven for your Shih Poo when you have visitors. Some dogs become agitated when there are guests at home; they may jump up on your guests, bark, or even nip at them. By having your Shih Poo in their crate, you can keep them safe and secure so they won’t bite or scratch anyone. Additionally, it prevents overexcitement and ensures that they won’t escape when someone comes through the door.

By preventing destructive behavior, crate training can help keep both your Shih Poo and home safe. To learn more about dog training that can help prevent destructive behavior, read our article on Shih Poo clicker training where you will find helpful tips to help train your Shih Poo.

Protects from Household Hazards

When Shih Poo is left to roam free in the house, they can quickly get into trouble. They might chew on electrical cords, toxic plants, or ingest something hazardous that could cause serious health problems. Thus, crate training can protect your Shih Poo from a potentially dangerous situation. Crate training will keep your Shih Poo secured in a safe environment where he cannot accidentally harm himself.

Moreover, crate training can be an essential tool for house training your Shih Poo, especially at a young age. With this training method, you will be able to monitor your Shih Poo’s behavior and make sure he doesn’t get into household hazards while you are away. This way, you can prevent your Shih Poo from developing bad habits and keep him safe and healthy.

When it comes to safety, crate training is a must. It builds a positive association in your Shih Poo about his crate and makes him feel secure in his own space. The crate can be a safe haven for your Shih Poo when he feels scared or nervous. It is a shield that will protect him from harm and reduce anxiety levels.

Crate training is also beneficial when traveling with your Shih Poo. For example, when visiting friends, your Shih Poo can have his safe place to calm down and relax in strange environments.

Crate training is a great way to protect your Shih Poo from household hazards and accidents. It also helps with house training, reinforces positive attitudes, and provides a safe space for your Shih Poo. As a pet owner, it is essential to ensure that your Shih Poo is always safe and healthy, and crate training is one of the methods to fulfill that.

If you are interested in learning more about Shih Poo training, click here. You will learn about the common training issues, such as barking and socialization, and find solutions for them.

Security

When it comes to the well-being of your Shih Poo, ensuring their safety and security is of utmost importance. Providing your furry friend with a comfortable and secure environment is crucial for their mental and physical health. Crate training can help you achieve that. With a properly trained Shih Poo, you can have peace of mind knowing that they have a safe space they can retreat to when needed, reducing separation anxiety and unwanted behaviors. Additionally, crate training can also help with their training, establishing routine and boundaries. To learn more about how to teach obedience to your Shih Poo, you can check out our article on teaching obedience.

Provides a Safe Space

A crate can be a “safe space” for your Shih Poo that provides them with the comfort and security they crave. With a crate, your furry friend will have a place to retreat to when they feel anxious or overwhelmed. A dog crate is especially helpful when there are many people or activities happening around the house, which can be stressful for your Shih Poo. In this safe space, your dog can relax, unwind, and feel secure knowing that they have a personal space to call their own.

It’s essential to ensure that the crate is big enough for your Shih Poo to move around freely inside it, and that it feels comfortable and inviting. Fill the crate with soft blankets, chew toys, or other comforting items that your dog enjoys. This will make them more likely to use the crate as a place to relax.

When your Shih Poo has a safe space like a crate, it can reduce their anxiety levels. During intense situations like thunderstorms or fireworks, finding comfort inside the crate can lessen their fear and keep them safe.

It’s a good idea to use the crate as part of your Shih Poo’s socialization process. Introduce them to the crate gradually and make sure that it is associated only with positive experiences. Start by placing treats in the crate and encouraging your Shih Poo to explore it. Once they become comfortable with the crate, you can begin to leave the door open and let your dog come and go as they please.

Remember that the crate is not a punishment, and you should never force your Shih Poo into it. The crate is meant to be a safe and comfortable space that your dog will naturally want to explore and spend time in.

Providing your Shih Poo with a safe space to call their own can be incredibly beneficial. A crate can be a perfect solution to help reduce their anxiety levels, provide a safe haven when needed, and help establish healthy routines and boundaries. With proper training, your Shih Poo can learn to love and appreciate their crate as their own little safe retreat.

Reduces Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common problem for dogs, especially when left alone for extended periods. Shih Poos, in particular, are known to suffer from separation anxiety, causing them to show destructive behavior or excessive barking. Crate training can be an effective way to reduce separation anxiety and provide your Shih Poo with a sense of security.

When your Shih Poo is crate trained, they have a safe and familiar space to retire to when they feel anxious or stressed. Being trained in a crate allows them to associate their crate with a positive experience, such as mealtime or rest time. It helps create a routine which your Shih Poo will grow accustomed to, making it less likely for them to feel anxious when left alone.

However, it’s important to ensure that you don’t leave your Shih Poo alone in the crate for extended periods, as this could worsen their anxiety. Gradual crate training is best practice when trying to reduce anxiety. At first, leave your Shih Poo in the crate for short periods of time, and gradually increase it as they become more comfortable.

Crate training should also be used in conjunction with socialization and other training methods to reduce separation anxiety. Socialization involves exposing your dog to different environments, people, and other animals, which can help them manage anxiety and build confidence. Additionally, training your Shih Poo to stop barking or teaching them tricks can also help lessen anxiety, giving them something to focus on while you are away.

Overall, crate training, combined with socialization and proper training, can greatly reduce separation anxiety in Shih Poos, leading to a happier and more comfortable life for your furry friend.

Training

The benefits of crate training for your Shih Poo extend far beyond just their safety and security. Another crucial aspect of crate training is the training itself. Proper crate training establishes routine and boundaries for your furry friend, helping to develop a positive association with the crate and foster good behavior. This type of training is an essential foundation for successful socialization and trick training, which can be built upon later. While the process of crate training can take time and patience, it is a worthwhile investment in the long-term well-being of your pup.

Establishes Routine and Boundaries

Crate training your Shih Poo can help establish a routine and boundaries for your furry friend. Dogs thrive on routine and consistency, and crate training can provide them with just that.

Routine: By setting a schedule for when your Shih Poo goes into the crate, they will know what to expect and when to expect it. This can create a sense of comfort and security for your dog. For example, you can use the crate for naps or overnight sleeping, or when you are away from home. This will establish a routine for your dog and make them feel more secure.

Boundaries: Using a crate can also set boundaries for your Shih Poo. It is important to establish rules and regulations for your pet, and the crate can be a helpful tool in doing so. For example, if you don’t want your dog on the furniture, you can crate train them during times you are sitting on the couch. This will provide a clear boundary for your dog and will help them understand what is expected of them.

Crate training can provide a sense of routine and boundaries for your Shih Poo, which can lead to a more well-behaved and obedient pet. Just remember to always use positive reinforcement and never use the crate as punishment.

For more information on how to train your Shih Poo, check out our articles on shih poo socialization, training your shih poo to stop barking, and teaching your shih poo tricks.

Fosters Positive Association with Crate

Crate training, when done correctly, can foster a positive association between your Shih Poo and their crate. This is important because a negative association can cause your furry friend to feel anxious and stressed, leading to reluctance to enter the crate. Here are a few ways to create a positive association with the crate:

Use treats: Incorporate treats into the crate training process to encourage your Shih Poo to enter and spend time in the crate. This positive reinforcement will help your dog understand that the crate is a safe and comfortable space.
Make it comfortable: Add a soft blanket or comfortable bed to the crate and include your Shih Poo’s favorite toys to make the crate more inviting.
Keep it open: Leave the crate door open when your dog isn’t inside to encourage exploration and curiosity. This will help to normalize the crate and make it a regular part of their surroundings.
Use a command: Use a consistent command like “crate” when encouraging your Shih Poo to enter the crate each time. This will help them associate the command with the action, making it easier to train them in the future.

Creating a positive association with the crate fosters a sense of security and comfort for your Shih Poo. They will begin to view the crate as a safe haven, reducing anxiety and stress. As a result, crate training can make your Shih Poo feel more confident and relaxed even when you are not at home.

Tips for Successful Crate Training

Getting your Shih Poo used to their crate can be a challenging process. However, with the right approach and a bit of patience, you can make crate training a positive experience for you and your furry friend. Here are some helpful tips for successful crate training that will ensure your Shih Poo feels safe, secure, and comfortable in their new resting place.

Start Early and Gradually

Introducing a Shih Poo puppy to crate training can be a challenging process, but starting early and gradually can make a big difference. It is important to ease your furry friend into the crate training process to avoid overwhelming them with too much too soon. This will help establish a positive association with their crate and prevent any potential negative behaviors from developing.

Start Early: When it comes to crate training your Shih Poo, it’s best to start as early as possible. It’s recommended to begin crate training when your pup is between eight to twelve weeks old. This age range is ideal as it allows your puppy to get used to the idea of a crate as a safe and secure place to call home.

Gradually Introduce the Crate: Start by placing the crate in an area of the house where your Shih Poo spends most of their time. Leave the door open and encourage your pup to explore the space on their own. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate over the course of several days or weeks.

Day	Time in Crate	Activity During Crate Time
1	5 minutes	Place treats in crate and let Shih Poo explore
2	10 minutes	Encourage Shih Poo to enter crate with treats and praise
3	15 minutes	Close door for brief periods while Shih Poo eats or plays with toys
4	20 minutes	Leave the room briefly while the door is closed

Monitor Behaviors: Keep a close eye on your Shih Poo’s behaviors and adjust crate time accordingly. If they seem anxious or upset, try reducing the amount of time they spend in the crate and gradually increase over time.

By starting early and gradually introducing the crate, you can help your Shih Poo become comfortable with their new safe haven. Remember to use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise when your pup displays positive behavior in the crate. This will help them establish a positive association with their crate and optimize the crate training experience.

Make Crate Comfortable and Inviting

When introducing your Shih Poo to crate training, it’s important to make the crate a comfortable and inviting space that they will want to spend time in. Here are some tips to make the crate an attractive spot for your furry friend:

Add soft bedding: Place a comfortable bed or blanket inside the crate to create a cozy environment for your Shih Poo. Make sure the bedding is made of safe and non-toxic materials.
Provide toys: Toys and chew items can keep your Shih Poo occupied and content while in the crate. Choose appropriate toys for your pup’s size and activity level to avoid any choking hazards.
Keep it clean: Regularly clean the crate to ensure a fresh and hygienic space for your Shih Poo. Use pet-safe cleaning products and wipe down all surfaces, including the bottom of the crate.
Location matters: Place the crate in an area where your Shih Poo can still see and hear you, such as the living room or bedroom. This will help your pup feel less isolated and more secure.
Add familiar scents: Consider adding a shirt or blanket with your scent on it to the crate. This can help your Shih Poo feel more relaxed and at ease when confined to the crate.

By following these tips, you can create a comfortable and inviting space where your Shih Poo will feel safe and secure during crate training. Remember to always supervise your pup and make sure they associate the crate with positive experiences.

Don’t Use Crate as Punishment

Using a crate as a form of punishment is a common mistake made by many pet owners. It is important to understand that the crate should be seen as a safe and comfortable space for your Shih Poo, rather than a tool for disciplining bad behavior.
Here are some reasons why you should avoid using the crate as punishment:

Creates negative associations: If your Shih Poo starts associating the crate with punishment and negative experiences, they are less likely to see it as a safe space to retreat to. This can lead to an increase in anxiety and stress, making it more difficult to successfully crate train your Shih Poo.
May lead to fear and aggression: If your Shih Poo feels trapped and threatened in the crate, they may become fearful and display aggressive behavior as a form of self-defense. This can be dangerous for both your pet and anyone who interacts with them.
Counterproductive to training: The purpose of crate training is to establish a positive association between the crate and a sense of security for your pet. Punishing them with the crate only works to undermine this training process and can create a hostile environment for both you and your Shih Poo.

Remember, positive reinforcement is key to successful crate training. Use treats and verbal praise to encourage your Shih Poo to enter the crate on their own. Once inside, try not to disturb them and provide them with comfortable bedding and toys to help them feel at ease. With patience, consistency, and a positive attitude, your Shih Poo will come to see their crate as a safe and comfortable space to retreat to when needed.

Use Treats and Positive Reinforcement

In order to make crate training a fun and positive experience for your Shih Poo, it’s important to use treats and positive reinforcement. Using rewards will encourage your dog to view the crate as a desirable and acceptable space to rest and relax.

Here are some tips for using treats and positive reinforcement in your crate training:

Start by showing your Shih Poo a treat and then placing it in the crate. Allow your dog to freely walk in and out of the crate to get the treat, and repeat this process several times until they feel comfortable going in and out.
Once your dog is comfortable going in and out of the crate, start using a command such as “crate” or “go to bed” to encourage them to enter the crate on their own. When they do, reward them with a treat and praise.
Continue practicing this routine, gradually increasing the length of time your Shih Poo spends in the crate before receiving the treat. This will help your dog learn that good things happen in the crate, and that staying inside is a positive experience.
It’s important to only reward your dog when they enter the crate willingly. Avoid forcing them inside or using the crate as a form of punishment, as this will only create negative associations.
Be consistent in your training and reward your Shih Poo every time they enter the crate on command. This will help reinforce the behavior and lead to a positive relationship between your dog and their crate.

By using treats and positive reinforcement, you can make crate training a fun and enjoyable experience for your Shih Poo. Remember to be patient and consistent in your training, and your dog will soon be happily spending time in their cozy crate.

Don’t Leave Shih Poo in Crate for Too Long

It’s important to remember that crate training should not be used as a way to confine your Shih Poo for long periods of time. While the crate can provide a safe and comfortable space for your furry friend, it should not be abused as a means of confinement.

Here are some tips for determining how long to leave your Shih Poo in the crate:

Generally, puppies and younger dogs should not be left in the crate for more than a few hours at a time. As they get older, they may be able to stay in the crate for longer periods of time.
Adult dogs should not be left in the crate for more than 6-8 hours at a time. This may vary depending on a dog’s individual needs, so it’s important to pay attention to your Shih Poo’s behavior and adjust accordingly.
If you need to leave your Shih Poo in the crate for an extended period of time, be sure to provide plenty of water and a comfortable resting place. You may want to consider hiring a dog sitter or taking your Shih Poo to a doggie daycare to ensure they are getting appropriate care and attention.

Leaving your Shih Poo in the crate for too long can have negative consequences:

Your Shih Poo may become anxious, stressed or uncomfortable.
They may develop physical health problems.
Your Shih Poo may start to associate the crate with negative feelings and resist going into it in the future.

As a responsible pet owner, it is important to regularly assess your Shih Poo’s needs in terms of crate training and adjust your routine accordingly. While the crate can be a helpful tool for training and safety, it should never be used as a means of confinement for extended periods of time.

Common Concerns about Crate Training

As much as crate training can be a beneficial experience for your Shih Poo, there are some common concerns that owners may have when considering this method. It’s natural to have some doubts when it comes to crating your furry friend, but understanding these concerns and knowing how to address them can provide peace of mind and make for a successful crate training experience. Let’s take a look at some of the most common concerns owners have and how to tackle them.

Crating for Extended Periods of Time

Crate training is a beneficial method for Shih Poo owners, but it is important to remember that crating for extended periods of time can be harmful to your furry friend’s physical and mental health. Here are some things to keep in mind to prevent any negative effects:

Mind the time: When crate training your Shih Poo, make sure to gradually increase the amount of time they spend in their crate. A general rule of thumb is that puppies can hold their bladders for one hour per month of age, up to eight hours. However, this is only a guideline and should be adjusted based on your dog’s individual needs.
Take breaks: If you need to crate your Shih Poo for an extended period of time, try to take breaks so they can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. This will also reduce the risk of developing pressure sores or other health issues caused by prolonged sitting or lying down.
Provide stimulation: Boredom can lead to behavioral issues, so be sure to provide your Shih Poo with plenty of toys and puzzles to keep them mentally engaged while they are in the crate.
Give attention: When you let your Shih Poo out of their crate, remember to give them plenty of love and attention. This will help prevent separation anxiety and ensure that they feel happy and loved.

By being mindful of these tips, you can ensure that crating your Shih Poo for extended periods of time does not have any negative effects on their well-being. Remember that crate training is a tool that should be used responsibly and with your dog’s best interests in mind.

Shih Poo Whining or Barking in Crate

It is not uncommon for a Shih Poo to whine or bark when first introduced to their crate. This behavior is a natural response to being separated from their owner and can be addressed with patience and persistence. To help your Shih Poo feel more comfortable in their crate, try these tips:

Do not give attention when whining: It is important to ignore your Shih Poo’s whining or barking in their crate as giving attention to this behavior can reinforce it. Wait until they have stopped before giving them any attention or letting them out of the crate.
Provide calming reassurance: You can help ease your Shih Poo’s anxiety by providing a calming presence near their crate. Sit or lie near the crate and speak to them softly in a reassuring tone of voice.
Use a crate cover: Try using a crate cover to make the crate feel more enclosed and den-like. This can help your Shih Poo feel more secure and less anxious.
Use a favorite toy or blanket: Placing a favorite toy or blanket inside the crate can help make it feel more inviting and familiar.
Practice desensitization: Slowly introducing your Shih Poo to the crate by leaving the door open and placing treats or toys inside can help them associate positive experiences with being in the crate.

Remember that crate training takes time and patience. With consistent positive reinforcement, your Shih Poo will learn to associate their crate with security and comfort, and the whining or barking behavior should diminish over time.

Shih Poo Not Using Crate

It’s not uncommon for some Shih Poo dogs to resist using their crate at first. This can be frustrating for dog owners who want to take advantage of the many benefits that crate training provides. If your Shih Poo is not using their crate, it’s important to take a step back and analyze the situation to figure out why.

Possible Reasons for Resisting the Crate

Possible Reasons	Solutions
Your Shih Poo is uncomfortable in the crate	Make sure that the crate is the right size for your dog and that it is comfortable. Add a soft bed and some toys to make the crate a more inviting space.
Your Shih Poo has separation anxiety	For dogs with separation anxiety, using a crate can be a cause of stress. Gradually introduce the crate, leave the door open and let the dog explore it. Try leaving the crate open during regular nap times and build up to having the dog stay in it for short periods of time while you’re gone.
Your Shih Poo needs more exercise and stimulation	If your dog is not getting enough exercise and stimulation, he may resist being confined to the crate. Make sure that you are giving your dog enough opportunities for exercise and playtime, as well as plenty of mental stimulation through training or interactive toys.
Your Shih Poo has an aversion to the crate	If your dog has had negative experiences in a crate before, they may have developed an aversion to it. Try a different style, make sure the size is correct, add some toys or treats, and slowly get your dog acclimated to the new crate in a positive way.

Remember, crate training should always be a gradual process. If your Shih Poo is not using their crate, don’t get frustrated or give up on it. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistent training, you can help your Shih Poo learn to love their crate and all of the benefits that it provides.

Conclusion

After considering the benefits and tips for successful crate training, it’s clear that crate training can be incredibly beneficial for your Shih Poo. Not only does it provide a safe space for your furry friend, but it also helps with training and curbing destructive behavior. By establishing a routine and providing positive reinforcement, you can foster a positive association with the crate and make it a comfortable and inviting space for your Shih Poo.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that crate training should be done with care and attention. Avoid using the crate as punishment and don’t leave your Shih Poo in the crate for too long. Additionally, it’s important to address any concerns you may have about crate training, such as a Shih Poo whining or barking in the crate or not using the crate at all.

Overall, crate training can be a great tool for both you and your Shih Poo. With patience and consistency, you can create a safe and secure space that your furry friend will love. So why not consider crate training for your Shih Poo today?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can crate training be harmful to my Shih Poo?

No, when done correctly, crate training is a safe and beneficial practice for your Shih Poo.

Is crate training cruel?

No, if done correctly, crate training is not cruel. It provides a secure space for your Shih Poo and can actually help reduce stress and anxiety.

How long should I leave my Shih Poo in a crate?

It is recommended to not leave your Shih Poo in a crate for more than 4 hours at a time.

Can I crate train an adult Shih Poo?

Yes, crate training can be done at any age, but it may take longer for an adult Shih Poo to adjust to the crate.

Can I use a crate that is too big for my Shih Poo?

No, it is important to use a crate that is appropriately sized for your Shih Poo to prevent accidents and to ensure they feel safe and secure.

What should I do if my Shih Poo is afraid of the crate?

Start by making the crate comfortable and inviting, and then gradually introduce your Shih Poo to the crate using positive reinforcement techniques.

Should I feed my Shih Poo in the crate?

Yes, feeding your Shih Poo in the crate can help them associate it with positive experiences and create a positive association with the crate.

Can I use a crate while house training my Shih Poo?

Yes, a crate can be a helpful tool while house training your Shih Poo by preventing them from having accidents in the house.

What if my Shih Poo cries in the crate?

It is important to not let your Shih Poo out of the crate when they are crying, as this can reinforce negative behavior. Instead, try using calming techniques such as soft music or a comforting blanket.