Cocker Spaniel Crate Training

Cocker Spaniel crate training can be a highly effective and relatively easy task provided it is done correctly from the start. A crate should be plastic or wire and correctly sized for the dog or puppy. You can choose a crate that would be appropriately sized for a full grown Cocker Spaniel and then simply use a divider to make it smaller for the puppy. The puppy or dog should be able to easily stand up, stretch out and relax in the crate without being cramped or uncomfortable. Crates that are too large are often problematic for housetraining as the puppy simply uses the back part as a bathroom, keeping the front part clean.

Cocker Spaniel crate training works because all dogs have a natural den instinct. They will not mess in their living area, providing you with the perfect situation to facilitate housetraining. Getting the Cocker Spaniel to feel comfortable in the crate is the first step in training and provides a relaxing, personal space for the dog or puppy.

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Start by lining the crate with a soft, washable liner. This is important to prevent the dog or puppy from slipping inside the crate, plus it allows you to easily clean up any accidents that may occur. For smaller puppies a soft towel may be a good option during the housetraining and then a more typical dog bed can be added after training is complete.

Keep the crate open in the puppy’s play and sleeping area and encourage the puppy to step into the crate, never confining him or her to the crate to avoid traumatizing the puppy. The same is true if you are working with an adult dog. Toss a few small treats just inside and allow the puppy or dog to walk in and get the treats then come back out as they choose. Avoid praising the dog on the way out as you want to provide the verbal praise as they are walking in. Once the dog or puppy is going in and out you are well on your way in your Cocker Spaniel crate training.

The next step in Cocker Spaniel crate training includes adding some toys into the crate and closing the gate or door for just a short period of time, perhaps one minute or so. Before the puppy or dog starts to whimper or whine, open the crate but don’t call the dog out, rather let him or her stay in if they choose. Over time gradually increase the amount of time the door is closed. Never open the door because the dog whines, barks or cries or you will be reinforcing this behavior.

There are some Cocker Spaniel crate training rules to carefully observe. The first and most important is to never use the crate as a punishment area. The crate is not a time out place and needs to be a positive area for the puppy or dog at all times. If used for punishment the dog will resent being in the crate, creating a natural dislike of being inside.

Another important Cocker Spaniel crate training tip is to never keep the dog in the crate for longer than developmentally appropriate. No adult dog should be confined to a crate on a continual, daily basis for more than 9 hours at the very most. Puppies under the age of six months will need at least a break out of the crate once every four hours plus regular exercise and playtime.