Many people say that you can't teach an old dog new tricks.Almost any dog can learn a new command with enough training and patience.
Step 1: It's important to have the right type of crate.
A wire crate is a good choice for most dogs.Make sure the dog can stand up and put his head in the crate you've chosen.Make sure the crate is large enough to allow the dog to lie down easily.A good rule of thumb is to read the box the crate comes in and then get one larger to account for growth and to provide for the comfort of your pet.
Step 2: Before kennel training, walk the dog.
When it's time to train an older dog, the best time is after a small amount of exercise.It's a good idea to give the animal a chance to do its business outside before it is locked up.It is important to establish a routine even if it is a brief one.Older dogs might not be able to hold in their waste over long periods.An animal with full bowel control will usually avoid making a mess in their cage and don't want to sleep in its poop any more than you do.
Step 3: Each time you want your dog to get into its kennel, choose a command word.
"kennel up" or "cage" are popular choices.The command word is to get your dog's attention.They won't know what you're talking about until you take them to the cage.While you do this, repeat your command word a few times.
Step 4: The crate should seem comfortable.
Put a comfortable blanket or dog bed in the crate and make sure that it is the most comfortable thing for the dog to lie down on.The dog will be more likely to go into the crate.
Step 5: The kennel should be introduced to your dog in short sessions.
You can start introducing your dog to the crate if you have the right equipment.Before you require the dog to stay in the kennel for a long period of time, you need to help it understand that it's a safe place and not a punishment.The door to the dog's space should be open all the time.Don't put the crate together with the dog close by when you first bring it home.A crate can be intimidating to a dog.Instead, take the dog out of the area, put the crate in a corner, and let him check it out on his own.
Step 6: The dog should not be praised for coming out.
When you let the dog out, don't praise it.Praise the dog when he enters.Say nothing when you let him out.The dog doesn't need to get excited about coming out, and going into the kennel is a good thing.
Step 7: The dog should be fed in the crate.
Feed the dog a few times in the crate and leave the door wide open.Put the food bowl halfway into the crate so the dog can eat with his body in and out.The food should be moved gradually to the back of the crate.The food bowl should be moved to the front of the crate when the dog is willing to eat the whole meal.Close the door when the dog looks at you.The dog should be allowed to go in and out of the crate as he eats.The bowl needs to be moved so that you don't close the door behind him.He can see what you are doing if he is facing you.
Step 8: Try closing the crate for a while.
When the dog is no longer afraid of being in the crate with the door half-way open, you can lead him into it with a treat.Give the treat in the crate and close the door so he can eat it.As soon as the treat is over, let the dog out.All meals should be fed in the crate.Gradually increase the amount of time the dog stays in the crate after the treat is finished, and until the animal is comfortable resting quietly.Let the dog out for four minutes if it barks five minutes after getting up.Gradually increase the time you wait.
Step 9: Before the dog starts making noise try to let it out.
If you miss the chance, you should wait for the dog to stop barking before opening the kennel.You're teaching the dog to open the door by barking if you let him out every time he starts barking.
Step 10: Don't leave the dog in a crate for long.
It's ok for dogs to sleep in at night and stay in for a little while during the day, but it isn't a longterm solution to caring for your animal.No dog should be left in the crate for more than four hours at a time without exercise or potty breaks.Dogs that are new to crates should be supervised until they get used to being left alone.Do not force the dog to stay inside if it is barking, drooling, panting, restless, standing or pawing at the door to get out.
Step 11: You have to be patient.
Adult dogs may have spent years without ever entering a crate because they don't have the same habits that puppies have.They are probably going to be more resistant to the idea.You have a job to bear with them and keep trying.Most adult dogs will accept a crate with the right training over time.