Your Springer & Crate Training

By Michael Saunders | March 11, 2009

When it comes to crate training, many individuals hold the wrong impression. Since this impression leads them to consider that crates are a form of punishment for their pet. Since they consider them cruel, they do not choose to use crates. However, crates can satisfy the natural instinct of your Springer Spaniel to live in a den; therefore, crates are one of the safest areas you can provide for your pet.

If you have a crate and leave it open, your Spaniel will start to go to it when he gets sleepy or when he gets confused. Although Spaniels tend to like crates, you shouldnt overuse one by allowing him to spend hours at a time inside of one. While you should be training him to get used to the crate, you should never allow him out if he is barking. Once your Spaniel starts to appreciate the crate, you can leave him in it for a few hours here and there – such as when you are away from home.

When you get your puppy and bring him home for the first time, you should have your crate ready and situated where you want it to be. You should set the crate up in a central area where your puppy can be part of the family, but never in areas that have a lot of traffic. Most people who use crates tend to leave them in the kitchen near a door, so the Spaniel can go outside whenever he needs to relieve himself.

You will bring the puppy inside your home and allow her to begin investigating the crate when you first arrive. If you leave the door to the crate open and place a dog treat or toy inside the crate as an extra incentive, the puppy will begin wandering in and out of the crate. You should offer her praise once she goes inside the crate to let her know she is doing the right thing.

Offer her praise when your Springer Spaniel stays in her crate on her own. After your Spaniel puppy begins, a habit of going into the crate on her own, you will place a new treat or toy inside for her to enjoy. After some time, close the door and observe how she reacts. If she begins to whine, simply talk to her and put your fingers through the holes in the door. However, do not immediately take her out rather you should wait for her to settle down.

Even though it may take some time, crate training is great for your Spaniel. You can use the crate when you need to leave, when you have family over, or for when your Spaniel has a medical condition such as diarrhea. If you use a bit of patience and never use the crate for punishment – your Springer Spaniel puppy should catch on to the crate pretty quickly.

A Springer Spaniel has been in Michael’s family for over 14 years. Visit his Website for all of your dogs beds and special dog bedding needs.

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