Crate Training for House Training Your Lhasa Apso
Welcoming a new furry friend into your home can be an exciting but challenging experience, especially when it comes to house training. Lhasa Apsos are loyal and affectionate companions, but they can also be stubborn at times. Crate training is a highly effective method for house training your Lhasa Apso, and it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience for either you or your pup. With patience and consistency, your Lhasa Apso can learn to love their crate and regard it as their safe and cozy den. In this article, we’ll discuss the what, why, and how of crate training your Lhasa Apso for house training, along with some tips and tricks to make the process smoother.
What is crate training?
What is crate training and why is it important for house training your Lhasa Apso?
Crate training involves using a crate to teach your Lhasa Apso to stay in a confined space for a specific period of time. This technique has been widely used as an effective way to house train your Lhasa Apso. By creating a safe, comfortable and secure environment, crate training will help reduce anxiety and stress in your furry friend. In this section, we will explore the benefits of crate training for house training your Lhasa Apso.
Benefits of crate training
Benefits of crate training:
Crate training has numerous benefits when it comes to house training your Lhasa Apso. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Helps with potty training: When used appropriately, a crate can help your Lhasa Apso control their bladder and bowels, making it easier to train them to go outside or on a designated potty pad. By keeping your Lhasa Apso in their crate when you’re not available to supervise them, you can prevent accidents around the house, and make sure that they only eliminate in the designated area.
- Prevents destructive behavior: A crate can also be used to prevent destructive tendencies if you’re not able to supervise your Lhasa Apso. In their crate, they won’t be able to chew on furniture, wires, or other household items that could harm them.
- Provides a safe space: A crate can become your Lhasa Apso’s safe haven, a place where they can retreat when they need rest or feel overwhelmed. By giving them their own special spot, you can help them feel secure and comfortable in your home.
- Facilitates travel with your Lhasa Apso: If you plan on traveling with your Lhasa Apso, crate training will come in handy. It will help them feel comfortable and secure in their new environment, and also prevent you from worrying about them running off or getting lost in unfamiliar surroundings.
Remember, crate training should always be done with care, respect, and patience. If done correctly, it can be an effective tool in house training your Lhasa Apso. To learn more about Lhasa Apso house training or other related topics, you can visit this helpful article. It covers additional tips and tricks that can aid you in the house training process.
How to crate train your Lhasa Apso for house training?
Crate training can be an effective tool in house training your Lhasa Apso. It is a process that involves teaching your furry friend to associate the crate with a sense of safety and comfort, rather than punishment or confinement. By following the steps below, you can ensure that your Lhasa Apso is comfortable and confident in their crate, making them more receptive to house training. Let’s get started!
Choosing the right crate
Choosing the right crate for your Lhasa Apso is essential for successful crate training. The crate should be the right size for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably. A crate that is too small can be uncomfortable and can make your Lhasa Apso anxious, while a crate that is too large can allow your dog to use a corner as a bathroom.
When choosing a crate, consider the following:
- The size of your Lhasa Apso: As mentioned, the crate should be the appropriate size for your Lhasa Apso.
- The type of crate: There are different types of crates available, including wire, plastic, and fabric. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Wire crates are durable and allow good ventilation and visibility, while plastic crates are quieter and provide more privacy. Fabric crates are lightweight and easily portable.
- The location of the crate: Consider where you plan to place the crate in your home. A wire crate may not be the best option in a high-traffic area where it can be easily knocked over.
- Your budget: Crates come in a range of prices. Consider what you can afford, but keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need the most expensive crate on the market.
By choosing the right crate, you can make your Lhasa Apso’s crate training more comfortable and successful. A comfortable and correctly sized crate can help reduce anxiety, which can lead to faster and more effective house training.
If you want to learn about common mistakes to avoid when crate training your Lhasa Apso, check out our article on common house training mistakes to avoid.
Introducing the crate
When introducing the crate to your Lhasa Apso, it’s important to do it gradually and carefully to ensure that they feel comfortable and secure in their new space. One of the first things to consider is the size of the crate. It should be big enough for your Lhasa Apso to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably, but not so big that they can use one side for sleeping and the other for elimination.
Here are some steps to follow when introducing the crate:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Place the crate in a quiet area | Choose a low-traffic area of your home where your Lhasa Apso can still see and hear you. Avoid placing the crate in an isolated area, as this can make your dog feel lonely and anxious. |
| Step 2: Make the crate comfortable | Add soft bedding, such as a blanket or towel, to the bottom of the crate. You can also leave a few toys or a chew bone inside to encourage your Lhasa Apso to explore their new space. |
| Step 3: Encourage your Lhasa Apso to investigate the crate | Place treats or their favorite toy near the crate and allow them to approach it on their own. Don’t force your Lhasa Apso inside the crate, but instead, let them explore it at their own pace. |
| Step 4: Use positive reinforcement | When your Lhasa Apso enters the crate on their own, reward them with praise and treats. Repeat this process several times throughout the day to associate the crate with positive experiences. |
| Step 5: Close the door for short periods | Once your Lhasa Apso seems comfortable in the crate, close the door for a few seconds while they are eating a treat or playing with a toy. Gradually increase the amount of time the door is closed over the course of several days or weeks. |
Introducing the crate to your Lhasa Apso can take time and patience, but with the right approach, you can help them feel comfortable and secure in their new space. By starting slowly and using positive reinforcement, you can help your dog develop a positive association with the crate, and make house training easier for both of you. If your Lhasa Apso resists using the crate, don’t force them, instead, seek some guidance from a reputable dog trainer.
Feeding your Lhasa Apso in the crate
Feeding your Lhasa Apso in the crate is an essential step in crate training for house training purposes. This step helps your Lhasa Apso better associate the crate with positive experiences. It is highly recommended to begin feeding your Lhasa Apso in the crate once they are fully comfortable entering and remaining inside it for short periods. Create a comfortable feeding station for your Lhasa Apso inside their crate, using soft bedding and a non-spill bowl.
By feeding your Lhasa Apso in the crate, they will start to find it easier to associate the crate with food and eventually feel more comfortable inside it, even when there is no food. Begin by placing the feeding station at the back of the crate and leave the door open while the dog eats. Gradually start to close the door while they are eating, but don’t latch it, and open it as soon as they finish eating. Over time, leave the door closed for a few minutes after they finish eating before opening it up.
Feeding your Lhasa Apso in the crate also helps them develop a regular eating routine, which is vital for controlling their urge to defecate or urinate in the wrong places. This routine will help establish a predictable pattern for their digestion and potty needs. If you are unsure about creating an appropriate feeding routine, please refer to our article on routine house training and how it can be applied to your Lhasa Apso’s diet.
Remember to not force your Lhasa Apso inside the crate every time they eat, as that may increase their stress levels and decrease their comfort in the crate. Instead, use positive reinforcement with treats and praise as you lure them inside the crate. You can learn more about this technique in our article on positive reinforcement for house training.
With each repeated feeding inside the crate, your Lhasa Apso will get used to the idea of spending time indoors, improving your success rate in crate training. However, be aware that accidents may still happen, especially in the early stages of crate training. Learn more about dealing with accidents in our article on dealing with accidents during house training.
Gradually increasing crate time
Gradually increasing crate time is an essential part of the crate training process for Lhasa Apsos. You can’t expect your furry friend to stay in their crate for extended periods right away. That’s why it’s essential to gradually increase the time they spend in the crate.
Start by leaving your Lhasa Apso in the crate for short periods, no longer than 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Gradually increase the time by adding five minutes to each session. Once your furry friend gets comfortable with that time, you can add another ten minutes.
It’s essential to watch your Lhasa Apso’s reaction during the whole process. If they seem distressed or anxious, it’s a sign that you have increased the crate time too quickly. In that case, you need to take a step back and slow down the process.
It’s also crucial to keep your Lhasa Apso entertained while in the crate, especially during lengthy sessions. Provide them with some toys or puzzles to keep them busy and prevent boredom.
Remember that crate training is not a punishment. It’s a useful tool to help with house training and keeping your Lhasa Apso safe while you’re not around. With patience and consistency, you’ll train your furry friend to see the crate as a positive and safe space.
If you want to learn more, consider reading our article on Lhasa Apso House Training to get more ideas and insights.
Nighttime crate training
During the nighttime, crate training becomes especially important for your Lhasa Apso. Lhasa Apsos, like most dogs, prefer a routine that helps them feel secure and comfortable, so putting them in their crate at night is often an essential step in their house training process. However, it’s important to ensure that your dog is comfortable in their crate before leaving them in it for extended periods.
To start the nighttime crate training process, put your Lhasa Apso in their crate with some toys and a comfortable blanket. Remember, the crate should be positioned in a low-traffic area of your home to keep your dog safe and free of distractions. Additionally, make sure that the crate is large enough for your dog to move around comfortably, but not so large that they can use one end as a bathroom.
If your Lhasa Apso is having a particularly difficult time with nighttime crate training, try sleeping close to their crate for the first few nights. This can help them feel more secure and may also minimize whining or barking during the night.
Another important tip for nighttime crate training is to avoid letting your dog out of the crate if they whine, whelp, or bark during the night. Doing so can encourage your Lhasa Apso to continue these behaviors in the future. Instead, wait until your dog is quiet before letting them out of the crate.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to crate training. Stick to a regular routine and ensure that your Lhasa Apso is never forced to spend too much time in their crate. If you are having trouble with nighttime crate training or any other aspect of house training your Lhasa Apso, consider seeking advice from a professional dog trainer.
| Nighttime Crate Training Do’s | Nighttime Crate Training Don’ts |
|
|
|---|
If you want to know more about training older Lhasa Apsos or need to solve house training refusal or age & health issues, check out our articles “Training Older Lhasa Apsos for House Training”, “Solving Lhasa Apso House Training Refusal”, and “How Age & Health Issues Affect House Training in Lhasa Apsos” for more information.
Using positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in crate training your Lhasa Apso for house training. When your dog exhibits desirable behavior, reward them with verbal praise or treats. This will let them know that they are doing the right thing, and they will be encouraged to continue doing it. Here are some ways you can use positive reinforcement in crate training:
- Offering treats: Every time you place your Lhasa Apso in the crate or they enter the crate on their own accord, give them a treat. You can also offer a treat when you release them from the crate, provided they haven’t eliminated inside.
- Using verbal praise: Additionally, you can use verbal praise to reinforce good behavior. This includes saying things like “good boy/girl” or “good job” when your Lhasa Apso follows your commands and exhibits desirable behavior.
- Pairing rewards with action: Pairing rewards with actions, such as immediately giving a treat when your Lhasa Apso sits quietly in the crate, will help them understand that this behavior is rewarding.
- Using toys as rewards: You can also use toys as rewards instead of treats, particularly if your dog is on a special diet or has a tendency to gain weight. Just make sure that the toys you use are safe for your Lhasa Apso and will not present a choking hazard.
Remember, using positive reinforcement is a key component of successful crate training. It will help to keep your Lhasa Apso calm, happy, and willing to continue working with you on this important training process.
Mistakes to avoid when crate training your Lhasa Apso
Crate training can be a highly effective method for house training your Lhasa Apso, but there are some mistakes that you should avoid to ensure that the process goes smoothly. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Using the crate as punishment: It’s important not to use the crate as a form of punishment. If your Lhasa Apso misbehaves, don’t send them to the crate as a time-out. This can create a negative association with the crate and make your dog less likely to want to use it voluntarily.
Leaving your Lhasa Apso in the crate for too long: While the crate can be a great tool for house training, it’s important not to leave your Lhasa Apso in the crate for too long. Puppies, in particular, have small bladders and need frequent breaks to go outside. As a general rule, puppies can spend about one hour in the crate for each month of age, up to a maximum of about six hours. Adult dogs can generally handle longer periods, but it’s still important to give them breaks to stretch their legs and relieve themselves.
Not making the crate comfortable: If your Lhasa Apso is uncomfortable in the crate, they’ll be less likely to want to use it. Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Add a soft bed or blanket to make it cozy, and provide some toys or chews to keep your dog occupied.
Not crate training gradually: It’s important to gradually introduce your Lhasa Apso to the crate and build up the amount of time they spend in it. If you immediately put your dog in the crate for several hours, they may become anxious or upset. Start by leaving the door open and encouraging your dog to go in and out of the crate voluntarily. Then, gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate with the door closed.
Not using positive reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is an important part of crate training. When your Lhasa Apso goes into the crate voluntarily, give them a treat or praise them. This will help create positive associations with the crate and make your dog more likely to want to use it.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully crate train your Lhasa Apso and set them up for a lifetime of good behavior.
How long does it take to crate train your Lhasa Apso?
Crate training your Lhasa Apso for house training may take some time and patience. However, it all depends on how consistent you are with the training. According to experts, crate training typically takes four to six months to complete. This timeline may be shorter for some dogs and longer for others, depending on factors such as age, previous training experiences, and temperament.
It’s important to remember that crate training should never be rushed. Pushing your Lhasa Apso too quickly could lead to accidents or resistance to the crate. The key is to gradually build up the amount of time your Lhasa Apso spends in the crate while keeping a close eye on their behavior and progress.
In addition to the initial training phase, it’s important to continue practicing and reinforcing the crate training routine with your Lhasa Apso on a regular basis. Consistency and patience are crucial in making sure your Lhasa Apso successfully becomes comfortable with their crate for the long term.
If you find that your Lhasa Apso is struggling with the training, it may be helpful to seek the advice of a professional trainer or behaviorist. They can offer guidance and support in facilitating the crate training process and overcoming any challenges that may arise.
Ultimately, the length of time needed to crate train your Lhasa Apso will depend on a variety of factors, as well as your patience and dedication to the training process. With consistency and positive reinforcement, your Lhasa Apso can become a well-trained and well-adjusted member of your household.
Tips for successful crate training
Successfully crate training your Lhasa Apso takes time and effort, but it can be made easier with a few helpful tips. Here are some tips to ensure successful crate training for your furry friend:
1. Make crate time positive: Ensure that crate time is a pleasant experience for your Lhasa Apso. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as giving treats, toys and praise. This will make the crate seem like a comfortable and safe space.
2. Gradually increase crate time: Start training with short times in the crate, and gradually increase the time spent inside. Keep in mind that your Lhasa Apso may have different adaptation periods, so you may need to be patient and take additional time.
3. Don’t use the crate for punishment: Dogs should never be punished in their crate, as this will make them associate it with negative experiences, which will make them more resistant to using it.
4. Follow a schedule: Dogs thrive on schedules, so it’s important to create and maintain a consistent schedule for crate training. This will help your Lhasa Apso establish routine and predictability that will make them more comfortable with crate time.
5. Provide enough space: Make sure the crate is large enough for your dog to turn around and lie down comfortably. However, don’t make it too spacious either, as this can tempt them to go to the bathroom inside the crate.
6. Use a comfortable bedding: Add a comfortable and soft bedding inside the crate, particularly beddings that are absorbent in case there are some accidents. This will further make the crate more comfortable for your Lhasa Apso.
7. Supervise your Lhasa Apso: Always supervise your Lhasa Apso when they are outside the crate, particularly during the initial phases of training. This will ensure that they are not exhibiting negative behavior that should be corrected.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to crate train your Lhasa Apso quickly and effectively. Keep in mind, however, that every dog is different, so it’s essential to be patient and use positive reinforcement to create a happy and healthy relationship between your Lhasa Apso and the crate.
Conclusion
In conclusion, crate training can be a very effective tool for house training your Lhasa Apso. It provides a sense of security for your pet and helps establish a routine that can aid in successful training. By choosing the right crate, introducing it properly, and gradually increasing crate time, you can ensure a positive experience for your Lhasa Apso.
Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to crate training your pet. Punishing your dog for accidents or using the crate as a form of isolation can lead to negative behavior and anxiety. Instead, reward your Lhasa Apso for good behavior and gradually increase the amount of time they spend in the crate.
While crate training can be effective, it is important to remember that each pet is unique and may respond differently to training. It is important to have patience and consistency when training your Lhasa Apso. Avoid making common mistakes, such as leaving your dog in the crate for too long or using it as punishment, and focus on creating a positive experience for your pet.
When done correctly, crate training can lead to successful house training for your Lhasa Apso. By establishing a routine and rewarding good behavior, your new pet can become a well-trained and valued member of your household. Remember to always show patience, love, and consistency in your training efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my Lhasa Apso cries and whines in the crate?
It’s important to remember that some whining and crying is normal during crate training. However, if it persists, it may be a sign that your Lhasa Apso needs a potty break or some attention. Try taking them out for a potty break or offering a chew toy to help distract them.
Can I leave my Lhasa Apso in the crate all day?
No, it’s not recommended to leave your Lhasa Apso in the crate for extended periods of time. Puppies should only be crated for a few hours at a time, while adult dogs can typically handle up to 6-8 hours. However, it’s important to give them ample time outside of the crate for exercise and attention.
What if my Lhasa Apso doesn’t want to go in the crate?
Try enticing them with treats or toys to make the crate a positive experience. You can also try feeding your Lhasa Apso near the crate and gradually moving their food bowl closer to the crate each mealtime. This can help them associate the crate with positive experiences.
What if my Lhasa Apso has an accident in the crate?
Accidents may happen during crate training, especially if your Lhasa Apso is not fully house trained. Clean up any messes thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering scent. It’s important not to punish your Lhasa Apso for accidents, as it can cause them to become anxious and fearful.
Do I need to cover the crate?
Covering the crate can create a cozy, den-like environment that many dogs find comforting. However, it’s not necessary and depends on your Lhasa Apso’s preference. Some may prefer an open crate, while others may prefer a covered one. Try both and see which your Lhasa Apso prefers.
Can crate training help with separation anxiety?
Yes, crate training can be an effective tool for managing separation anxiety. By giving your Lhasa Apso a safe and comfortable space to retreat to when you’re not home, they can feel more secure and less anxious.
What if my Lhasa Apso chews on the crate?
If your Lhasa Apso is chewing on the crate, it may be a sign that they need more exercise and mental stimulation. Try providing them with more interactive toys and puzzle feeders to keep them occupied. You can also try coating the crate with a taste deterrent spray.
Do I need to use a specific type of crate?
No, there are many types of crates available on the market, including wire, plastic, and soft-sided crates. The most important factor is to choose a crate that is the appropriate size for your Lhasa Apso and that they feel comfortable in.
How do I know when my Lhasa Apso is ready to be left out of the crate?
It’s important to wait until your Lhasa Apso is fully house trained and no longer showing destructive or anxious behavior before leaving them out of the crate for extended periods of time. Gradually increasing their freedom in the home, starting with shorter periods of time, can help ease the transition.
What if my Lhasa Apso dislikes the crate even after training?
Some dogs may never fully enjoy being in a crate, and that’s okay. However, it’s important to continue to provide them with a safe and comfortable space to retreat to when needed. You can try using a playpen or baby gate to create a small, enclosed space instead.
