Mistakes to Avoid When Crate Training Your Shih Poo

Matthew Farthing 27.04.2023 0

As a dog owner, the thought of crate training your furry friend may elicit a sigh of relief for how much easier it can make potty training and preventing destructive behavior. However, many owners fall into common mistakes that can hinder progress and cause stress for both pet and owner alike. With a little patience and understanding, though, these mistakes can be easily avoided. In this article, we’ll explore the most common pitfalls of crate training, and provide tips on how to steer clear of them. So, grab a treat and let’s get started on creating a comfortable and positive crate training experience for your pup!

Mistake #1: Using the Crate as Punishment

One of the most common mistakes in crate training is using the crate as punishment. This may cause a lot of problems in the long run! Using the crate as punishment can make your Shih Poo fearful of their crate and develop negative associations with it, making crate training more difficult. Besides, crate training should be a positive experience for your furry friend, not a negative one. In this article, we will explore why using the crate as punishment is a mistake and how to avoid it. For more information on the benefits of crate training your Shih Poo or tips for successful crate training, check out our other articles such as The Benefits of Shih Poo Crate Training and Tips for Successful Crate Training.

Why it’s a Mistake

Why it’s a Mistake:

Using the Crate as Punishment – if you use the crate as punishment, your Shih Poo will associate being in the crate with negative experiences. As a result, they might develop a negative attitude towards the crate and refuse to enter it. They might also exhibit destructive behavior when left in the crate as they feel anxious or stressed.
Skipping Crate Training Steps – proper crate training involves gradually introducing the crate to your Shih Poo, allowing them to become comfortable with it. Skipping steps like crate sizing or crate acclimatization can cause your dog to feel scared or trapped in the crate, making it difficult for them to get used to it.
Leaving Your Shih Poo in the Crate for Too Long – leaving your Shih Poo in the crate for extended periods can lead to depression, anxiety, and stress. It can also result in your dog having accidents in the crate, as they cannot hold their bladder for extended periods.
Not Making the Crate Comfortable – if the crate is not comfortable for your Shih Poo, they will be hesitant to enter it. Adding blankets, cushions, and toys in the crate can make it feel more like a safe haven for your dog.
Closing the Crate Too Soon – if you close the crate too soon, your Shih Poo might panic and become agitated or develop separation anxiety. Always allow your dog to explore their surroundings and gain confidence before closing the crate.
Not Using Treats or Positive Reinforcement – positive reinforcement helps your Shih Poo associate being in the crate with good experiences. Rewarding good behavior with treats, praise or toys can help your dog feel more at ease in the crate.
Inconsistency in Crate Training – inconsistent crate training can cause confusion for your Shih Poo, as they might not know what to expect. Stick to a consistent routine to help them become accustomed to the crate.

For more tips on Shih Poo crate training, check out our guide on crate training Shih Poos with positive reinforcement. Don’t forget to adjust the crate size to your dog’s needs and consult our crate training tips to ensure a successful training process.

How to Avoid it

Mistake #1: Using the Crate as Punishment

How to Avoid it:

Using positive reinforcement techniques is the key to avoiding this mistake. Make sure to associate the crate with positive experiences only – give your Shih Poo treats and praise when they enter the crate and reward them every time they behave well while in the crate.
It is essential to gradually introduce a Shih Poo to their crate. Give your pet some time to explore and become comfortable with the crate and its surroundings.
Creating a cozy space in the crate, with a soft blanket or bed, can help a Shih Poo feel comfortable and more willing to enter the crate without hesitation.
If you catch your Shih Poo misbehaving, never use the crate as punishment. Don’t scold or hit your pet under any circumstances.
Instead, use positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and treats, to encourage your Shih Poo to behave well.

Remember that the crate should be seen as a safe place for your pet to relax and enjoy their time alone. By following these steps and using positive reinforcement, you can easily avoid the mistake of using the crate as punishment. For more information on crate training for Shih Poos, you can check out our comprehensive guides at /cratetrainingshihpoo/ and /crate-training-shih-poos-separation-anxiety/. Additionally, if you’re interested in crate-free roaming for Shih Poos and nighttime dos and don’ts for crate training, check out our articles at /crate-free-roaming-shih-poos/ and /shih-poo-crate-training-nighttime-dos-donts/.

Mistake #2: Skipping Crate Training Steps

When it comes to crate training your furry friend, it’s important to resist the temptation to rush the process. Skipping important steps in crate training can lead to lasting negative associations with the crate, making the training process much more difficult for both you and your pet. It’s important to take your time and follow the steps to ensure your pet’s comfort and success in learning to use the crate as a safe and comfortable space. Let’s take a look at why skipping crate training steps is a common mistake and how to avoid it.

Why it’s a Mistake

When it comes to crate training your furry friend, it’s essential to know what mistakes to avoid. Here are some explanations of why these mistakes can be detrimental to your pup’s crate training success:

Using the Crate as Punishment: Using the crate as a punishment can make your dog associate it with negative experiences, leading to anxiety or fear towards the crate. As a result, crate training can become more difficult and take longer to achieve.
Skipping Crate Training Steps: Skipping steps like introducing the crate gradually or leaving your pup alone in the crate for too long can cause confusion and anxiety. It can also create an unpleasant experience for your pup, leading to reluctance to enter or stay in the crate.
Leaving Your Shih Poo in the Crate for Too Long: Leaving your pup in the crate for extended periods can cause physical discomfort, stress, or anxiety, which can lead to negative associations with the crate, making crate training harder to achieve.
Not Making the Crate Comfortable: A crate that is too small, or not comfortable, can cause physical discomfort, anxiety, and fear. As a result, your pup may develop negative associations with the crate, making crate training more challenging.
Closing the Crate Too Soon: Closing the crate too soon can cause anxiety and fear towards the crate, leading to reluctance to enter or stay in it. It can also make your pup feel confined, leading to negative associations with the crate.
Not Using Treats or Positive Reinforcement: Not using treats or positive reinforcement can leave your pup feeling disinterested in the crate, making crate training more challenging. On the other hand, using these methods can make crate training more enjoyable and effective.
Inconsistency in Crate Training: Inconsistent training can be confusing for your pup and cause unpredictability, leading to anxiety or fear. It can also prolong the time it takes for your pup to understand and get used to the crate.

By avoiding these mistakes and following proper crate training steps, you can ensure that your pup has a positive, healthy, and effective crate training experience.

How to Avoid it

Avoiding the mistake of using the crate as punishment can be achieved by following a few simple steps:

Associate the Crate with Positive Experiences: From the beginning, make sure to associate the crate with positive experiences for your Shih Poo by placing treats or toys inside the crate. You can also feed your dog inside the crate to create a positive association with the space.
Never Use the Crate as Punishment: Crate training should always be a positive experience for your dog. Never use the crate as a form of punishment, and never force your dog to go inside against their will.
Educate All Family Members: Ensure that all family members understand that the crate is not for punishment and should only be used as part of the training process.

Skipping crate training steps can cause confusion for your Shih Poo, but avoiding this mistake is easy:

Take It One Step at a Time: Start with small periods of time and gradually increase the length of crate time. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on how comfortable your dog is with the crate.
Encourage Your Dog: Always encourage your dog when they enter the crate and remember to never force them inside.
Be Patient: Patience is key when it comes to crate training. It may take longer for some dogs to become comfortable with the crate, but consistency and patience will pay off in the end.

Leaving your Shih Poo in the crate for too long can be harmful, but this mistake can be avoided by following these steps:

Take Your Dog Outside Frequently: Make sure to take your dog outside frequently for bathroom breaks. As a general rule, puppies can only hold their bladder for an hour per month of their age, so adjust crate time accordingly.
Provide Plenty of Exercises and Play Time: A tired dog is a happy dog. Make sure to provide plenty of exercises and playtime outside of the crate to ensure that your dog is not restless when inside the crate.
Consider a Dog Walker: If you are away from home for long periods, consider hiring a dog walker to break up the time your dog spends in the crate.

Not making the crate comfortable can be a mistake, but this is easily avoided by following these steps:

Invest in Quality Bedding: Investing in quality bedding will make the crate a more comfortable and inviting space for your Shih Poo.
Add Familiar Scents: Adding familiar scents, such as a blanket, can also make the crate feel more like home for your dog.
Ensure that the Crate is the Right Size: Ensure that the crate is the right size for your dog. It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Closing the crate too soon can be avoided with these simple steps:

Be Patient: Allow your dog time to adjust to the crate before closing the door. Once they are comfortable inside, gradually increase the amount of time the door is closed.
Start with Short Periods of Time: Start with short periods of time with the door closed and gradually work your way up to longer periods of time.
Provide Distractions: Provide distractions such as toys or treats when the door is closed to keep your Shih Poo preoccupied and comfortable.

Not using treats or positive reinforcement can be avoided with these tips:

Use Treats: Use treats to encourage your dog to enter the crate and reward them for good behavior. This will create a positive association with the crate.
Use Praise: Use praise to reinforce good behavior and let your dog know that they are doing the right thing.
Never Use Punishment: Never use punishment during crate training. This will create a negative association with the crate and make the training process more difficult.

Inconsistency in crate training is a common mistake, but it can be avoided with these steps:

Stick to a Schedule: Stick to a consistent schedule when it comes to crate training. This will help your dog to develop a routine and become more comfortable with the training process.
Be Consistent with Commands: Be consistent with the language that you use when training your dog. This will help them to understand the commands that you are giving them.
Involve All Family Members: Ensure that all family members are on board with the crate training process and consistency will be maintained.

Mistake #3: Leaving Your Shih Poo in the Crate for Too Long

Crate training can be an effective tool for housebreaking your Shih Poo, but it’s important to use it responsibly. One common mistake that many new pet owners make is leaving their furry friend in the crate for extended periods of time. While it’s necessary to use the crate for confinement during the training process, leaving your pup in there for too long can have negative consequences for their well-being. Let’s explore why this is a mistake and how you can avoid it.

Why it’s a Mistake

Using the crate as a form of punishment for your Shih Poo is a common mistake made by many pet owners during crate training. Punishing your pet by confining them to the crate can have a negative impact on their perception of the crate and crate training in general. It can make your pet feel like they are being punished for no apparent reason, which can lead to anger, fear, and confusion. Not only does it result in unproductive training sessions, but it can also be detrimental to your pet’s mental health and well-being.

Skipping crate training steps is another mistake that can hinder the success of the crate training process. Many pet owners assume that crate training is a straightforward and simple process, and thus they skip essential steps needed for successful crate training. Failing to follow the correct steps can lead to your Shih Poo feeling uncomfortable and fearful inside the crate, making it harder to get them to comply with crate training in the future.

Leaving your Shih Poo in the crate for an excessive amount of time is a third mistake to be avoided. Prolonged confinement in the crate can cause your pet to feel distressed, anxious and frightened, leading to undesirable behaviors such as whining, excessive barking, and destructive chewing. It’s important to allow your dog to have frequent breaks outside the crate, to ensure they remain happy, healthy, and comfortable.

Making the crate uncomfortable is yet another mistake that can lead to poor crate training results. An uncomfortable crate can cause your Shih Poo to avoid the crate or whine and bark incessantly, which can hinder the training process. It’s important to ensure that the crate is dry, clean, and contains a comfortable bed or blanket to provide your pet with optimal comfort.

Closing the crate too soon can also be a mistake pet owners make during the training process. It’s important to allow your Shih Poo to become gradually accustomed to the crate before leaving them inside with the door closed. Closing the door too soon can cause fear and anxiety in your pet, making it harder for them to adjust to crate training.

Failing to use positive reinforcement and treats during crate training is another mistake to be avoided. Positive reinforcement encourages good behavior and can make training much more enjoyable for your pet. Treats can be a helpful motivator for dogs, encouraging them to enter and stay within the crate.

Finally, inconsistency in crate training can be a mistake pets owners make during the training process. Inconsistency can lead to confusion for your pet, making it more difficult for them to understand the crate as their designated space. It’s important to remain consistent with the training process, even if it takes longer than anticipated to get the desired results.

How to Avoid it

To avoid using the crate as punishment, one of the key steps is to never force your Shih Poo into the crate. This can be counterproductive and may escalate their fear and anxiety towards the crate. Instead, use it as a place of comfort and relaxation. Here are some tips to help you avoid this common mistake:

Start Slow: Start by having the crate open for your Shih Poo to explore and get used to. Place some treats and toys inside to encourage them to enter on their own.
Keep it Positive: Never use the crate as a form of punishment or negative reinforcement. Instead, praise and reward your Shih Poo whenever they willingly enter the crate.
Don’t Overuse the Crate: Make sure your Shih Poo is not spending too much time inside the crate. This can exacerbate their anxiety and make them associate the crate with negative experiences.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement such as treats, toys, and praise to encourage your Shih Poo to enjoy their crate. This will help them associate the crate as a positive and safe space.

By taking these steps, you can avoid using the crate as punishment and instead make it a comfortable and welcoming space for your Shih Poo.

Mistake #4: Not Making the Crate Comfortable

When it comes to crate training, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for your furry friend should be a top priority. Unfortunately, one of the most common mistakes dog owners make is neglecting to make the crate a cozy and inviting space for their pup. This can lead to a disinterested or even fearful attitude towards the crate, making both training and travel more difficult for both of you. To ensure your dog develops a positive association with their crate, it’s important to pay close attention to their comfort and well-being while they’re inside. Let’s explore why neglecting crate comfort is a mistake and how you can easily avoid it.

Why it’s a Mistake

Using the crate as punishment is a common mistake that many pet owners make. This can be detrimental to the overall training process and can harm the bond between you and your Shih Poo. Here are the reasons why using the crate as punishment is a mistake:

Increases Stress: When your furry friend associates the crate with punishment, they will become stressed and anxious even at the sight of the crate. This will make it difficult for you to get them to stay in the crate without causing them distress.

Makes Training More Difficult: Using the crate as a form of punishment makes crate training more challenging. It will be harder for your dog to understand that the crate is their safe space if they have negative associations with it.

Causes Negative Behavior: When using the crate as punishment, your dog may develop negative behaviors such as whining, barking, and scratching at the crate. This is their way of trying to get out of the crate to avoid punishment.

Diminishes Trust: Your pet relies on you to keep them safe and happy. By using the crate as punishment, you’re breaking their trust and making them feel vulnerable and alone.

Retards Progression: Your goal with crate training is to create a safe and happy space for your dog. Using the crate as punishment retards the process and can cause regression in crate training progress.

Remember, avoid using the crate as punishment at all costs. Doing so will create a negative space for your dog and provide an unhealthy learning environment. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement techniques to strengthen the bond between you and your Shih Poo.

How to Avoid it

To avoid the common mistake of using the crate as punishment, it’s important to train your Shih Poo positively. Here are some tips to follow:

Tip #1:	Instead of using the crate as punishment, make it a fun and safe place for your Shih Poo. Add a comfy bed, blankets, and toys to make it feel like a cozy den.
Tip #2:	Associate the crate with positive experiences. Feed your Shih Poo in the crate and give treats when they go inside voluntarily. This will help your dog see the crate as a positive place.
Tip #3:	Never force your Shih Poo inside the crate or lock them inside as punishment. This can cause anxiety and make them associate the crate with negative experiences.
Tip #4:	Always be patient and consistent with crate training. Like any training, it takes time and effort to get your Shih Poo comfortable with the crate. But with positive reinforcement and a few tricks up your sleeve, your furry friend will love their crate in no time.

By following these tips, you can avoid the mistake of using the crate as punishment and create a positive and enjoyable experience for your Shih Poo during crate training.

Mistake #5: Closing the Crate Too Soon

As you hustle to get your Shih Poo used to their new crate, it can be tempting to close the crate door as soon as they step inside. However, this seemingly harmless action can actually do more harm than good. Closing the crate too soon can create negative associations with the crate, leading to resistance or even fear of the crate. In this section, we will highlight the consequences of closing the crate too soon and explore effective ways to avoid this mistake.

Why it’s a Mistake

One of the most common mistakes when crate training your shih poo is using the crate as punishment. This can have a significant negative impact on your dog’s emotional state and can make them fearful of the crate. Punishing your shih poo by locking them up in the crate will make them associate the crate with negative experiences, making it harder for them to adjust to using it as a safe and secure space.

Firstly, punishment can cause your shih poo to develop negative associations with the crate. As a result, they may resent the crate and start to become fearful of it. This will make crate training much more difficult as your shih poo will start to associate the crate with negative experiences.

Secondly, using the crate as punishment can have a damaging emotional impact on your shih poo. Dogs are sensitive animals and thrive on positive reinforcement. Punishing them by locking them in a crate can lead to depression, anxiety, and other behavioral problems.

Thirdly, punishing your shih poo by locking them in a crate will undermine the trust and bond between you and your dog. Your shih poo relies on you for its safety and security. By using the crate as a form of punishment, you are breaking that trust, and your shih poo will be less willing to listen and follow your commands.

It’s important to remember that crate training is not a punishment but rather a tool to help your shih poo feel safe and secure. By avoiding this common mistake, you can ensure that your shih poo will associate the crate with positive experiences, making it easier to crate train and providing them with a safe and comfortable space.

How to Avoid it

To avoid the common crate training mistakes mentioned above, there are some steps you can follow to ensure that your Shih Poo is trained properly and happily. Here is a table summarizing the solutions to each mistake:

Mistake	Solution
Using the Crate as Punishment	Tip #1: Associate the crate with positive experiences. Use treats and toys as rewards to create a positive and appealing environment inside the crate.
Skipping Crate Training Steps	Tip #2: Follow crate training steps gradually. Do not rush it as it can lead to confusion and anxiety. Make sure your Shih Poo is comfortable and relaxed at each stage before moving on to the next one.
Leaving Your Shih Poo in the Crate for Too Long	Tip #3: Gradually increase the time your Shih Poo spends in the crate. Start with short periods and gradually increase the duration. Make sure to give him enough time outside the crate to play, exercise and relieve himself.
Not Making the Crate Comfortable	Tip #4: Create a comfortable environment in the crate. Add a soft blanket, a comfortable pillow, and some toys. Make sure that the crate is not too big or too small, and ensure that it is clean and well-ventilated.
Closing the Crate Too Soon	Tip #5: Gradually introduce the crate door. Keep it open during the first stages of crate training and gradually close it for short periods of time. Give your Shih Poo treats and positive reinforcement when he enters and stays in the crate.
Not Using Treats or Positive Reinforcement	Tip #6: Use treats and positive reinforcement to encourage your Shih Poo to enter and stay in the crate. Praise him when he enters the crate and use treats to reward him for staying inside. This will help your Shih Poo associate good experiences with the crate.
Inconsistency in Crate Training	Tip #7: Be consistent with crate training. Use the same training techniques and commands, and make sure that all family members follow the same rules. Inconsistency can lead to confusion and anxiety for your Shih Poo.

By following these tips, you can successfully train your Shih Poo to view the crate as a positive and comfortable space to relax and sleep. Remember to be patient and consistent, and your furry friend will be a happy crate-trained pup in no time.

Mistake #6: Not Using Treats or Positive Reinforcement

When it comes to crate training your furry companion, it’s important to remember that positive reinforcement goes a long way. Your Shih Poo is more likely to respond to training when they feel rewarded for their good behavior. That’s why it’s important to avoid the mistake of not using treats or positive reinforcement when crate training. In this section, we’ll discuss how relying solely on punishment or neglecting the use of treats can hinder your training progress and what you can do to avoid this common crate training mistake.

Why it’s a Mistake

One of the common mistakes that dog owners make when crate training their Shih Poo is using the crate as a form of punishment. This can have negative emotional and behavioral impacts on your furry friend. Here are some reasons why this is a mistake:

Creates a Negative Association: Using the crate as punishment can make your Shih Poo associate the crate with fear, stress, and anxiety. This can make crate training more difficult and may even cause long-term behavioral issues for your pup.
Reduces Trust: Punishing your Shih Poo by using the crate can also reduce the trust and bond between you and your furry friend. They may become less eager to spend time with you or obey your commands if they see the crate as a negative and uncomfortable space.
Increases the Risk of Crate Anxiety: When the crate is associated with punishment, it can also increase the risk of crate anxiety. This means that your Shih Poo may become stressed or fearful whenever they see the crate, even if it is not being used for punishment.

It’s important to avoid using the crate as a form of punishment and instead focus on positive reinforcement techniques to crate train your furry friend effectively.

How to Avoid it

To avoid using the crate as punishment, it’s important to create a positive association with the crate. Here are some tips:

Start Slowly: Introduce the crate gradually to your Shih Poo. Allow them to sniff and explore the crate before putting them inside.
Make it a Comfortable Space: Add a soft blanket or bed, a favorite toy, and perhaps an article of clothing that has your scent on it. This can make the space feel like a cozy den.
Use Treats and Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise when your Shih Poo goes inside the crate on their own. This will help reinforce that the crate is a good space.
Never Force Your Shih Poo Inside: Forcing your Shih Poo inside the crate can create a negative association with the space. Allow them to choose to enter the crate on their own terms.
Don’t Leave Your Shih Poo Alone for Too Long: Leaving your Shih Poo alone in the crate for extended periods can make them anxious about the crate. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Shih Poo has a positive association with their crate and is not scared of it. Remember, the crate should be a comfortable and safe space for your furry friend!

Mistake #7: Inconsistency in Crate Training

Successfully crate training your furry friend requires consistency in every aspect of the process. This includes behavior expectations, time frames for being in the crate, and methods of positive reinforcement. However, one of the most common mistakes many pet owners make is being inconsistent with their training. Not sticking to a routine could hinder progress and lead to confusion, anxiety, and regression in your pet’s training. Let’s explore how inconsistency in crate training can impact your pet and ways to avoid it.

Why it’s a Mistake

One of the primary reasons why committing this particular crate training mistake is not recommended is that it can cause the dog to develop a negative association towards their crate. Using the crate as punishment can be seen by your furry friend as a form of abandonment or isolation, leading to fear and anxiety towards the crate. This can make it challenging for them to feel comfortable or safe inside their crate, making training more difficult.

Another reason is related to the perception of the dog towards training in general. If the dog sees the crate as a place of punishment, they may also develop the perception that training is a negative experience to avoid. Using the crate as a form of punishment can interfere with their overall dog training progress.

Lastly, punishment-based dog training techniques can lead to further behavioural issues in dogs such as aggression, fear or anxiety. This is because the dog becomes confused and does not understand what they have done wrong or why they are being punished. As a result, stress and aggression can arise, leading to a negative impact on the bond between the owner and the dog.

To sum up, using the crate as a means of punishment can result in negative associations for the dog towards the crate, interfere with training progress and potentially cause behavioural issues. Thus, it’s important to avoid using the crate as a form of punishment and explore positive reinforcement-based training methods.

How to Avoid it

Avoiding Mistake #7: Inconsistency in Crate Training

To avoid being inconsistent with crate training, here are some helpful tips.

Create a Routine: Having a consistent routine for your Shih Poo will make crate training much easier. Make sure to have set times for meals, bathroom breaks, playtime, and crate time. This will help your dog know what to expect and when to expect it.
Stick to the Plan: Once you have a routine in place, make sure to stick to it as close as possible. If something unexpected comes up, adjust your schedule for that day but get back on track as soon as possible.
Involve Everyone: Make sure everyone in the household is on board with the crate training plan and understands the routine. This will help everyone stay consistent and avoid unnecessary confusion for the Shih Poo.
Be Patient: Consistency is key when it comes to crate training, but it also takes time and patience. Don’t get frustrated if your dog isn’t catching on as quickly as you hoped. Stay consistent and positive, and your Shih Poo will eventually understand what’s expected of them.
Reward Good Behavior: When your Shih Poo is consistently following the routine and behaving well in their crate, make sure to reward them with treats and praise. This positive reinforcement will strengthen their good behavior and help them associate the crate with positivity.

By avoiding inconsistency in crate training, you can help your Shih Poo feel more comfortable and confident in their crate, leading to a happier and healthier pup.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crate training your Shih Poo can be a highly effective way to housebreak and train your pup. However, it’s crucial to avoid the common mistakes that many dog owners make when crate training their pets. Using a crate as punishment, skipping training steps, leaving your pup in the crate for too long, not making the crate comfortable, closing the crate too soon, not using treats or positive reinforcement, and inconsistency in training are all common mistakes that can hinder your Shih Poo’s progress.

To avoid these mistakes, it’s important to understand the purpose of the crate and to use it as a positive and safe space for your pup. Gradual and consistent training steps should be taken, and the crate should be made as comfortable and inviting as possible with cozy bedding and enticing toys. It’s also crucial to avoid leaving your pet in the crate for longer periods than they can handle and to always use positive reinforcement and tasty treats to encourage good behavior.

Overall, with patience and commitment to crate training, your Shih Poo will learn to love their crate and see it as a secure haven. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure that the process is smooth and successful, leading to a healthier and happier relationship between you and your furry friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I crate train an adult dog?

Yes, adult dogs can still be crate trained. However, it may take more time and patience compared to training a puppy.

2. Should I leave food and water in the crate?

No, it’s best to not leave food and water in the crate with your dog as it can lead to accidents and discomfort while they’re confined.

3. How long should I leave my Shih Poo in the crate?

Shih Poos should not be left in their crate for more than 4 hours at a time, as they need to stretch their legs and have opportunities to relieve themselves.

4. Can crate training help with potty training?

Yes, crate training can aid in potty training as it teaches your dog to hold their bladder and bowel movements until they’re let outside.

5. How do I choose the right size crate for my Shih Poo?

The crate should be big enough for your Shih Poo to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. A crate that’s too small can be uncomfortable and limit movement, while a crate that’s too big may lead to accidents.

6. Is it normal for my Shih Poo to cry in the crate?

It’s common for Shih Poos to cry and whine when first introduced to the crate, but with patience and positive reinforcement, they should eventually learn to associate the crate with comfort and safety.

7. Should I use a blanket or towel in the crate?

Yes, adding a blanket or towel can make the crate more comfortable for your Shih Poo. Just make sure it’s not too thick or fluffy, as your dog may chew or swallow parts of it.

8. Can I leave toys in the crate with my Shih Poo?

Yes, toys can be left in the crate as long as they’re safe and durable. Avoid leaving any toys with small or sharp pieces that may be swallowed.

9. How long does it take to fully crate train a Shih Poo?

Complete crate training can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your Shih Poo’s individual needs and behavior. Consistency and patience is key in successful crate training.

10. Can I use the crate for punishment if my Shih Poo misbehaves?

No, using the crate as punishment can have negative effects on your dog’s behavior and trust in you. The crate should only be associated with positive experiences and feelings of safety and comfort.