Easily Crate Train Your Goldendoodle with This Schedule

Crate training is an essential aspect of your Goldendoodle’s early development and obedience training. This training method can make traveling with your furry friend a lot easier, reduce destructive behavior, and help with house training.

A properly executed crate training schedule can help your Goldendoodle to feel safe and secure in its crate without feelings of abandonment when left overnight.

Let’s take a look at a simple schedule you can use for crate training your goldendoodle on days when you are home, and also a step-by-step guide on how to crate train your Goldendoodle.

Creating a Crate Training Schedule for Your Goldendoodle

It is important to have a clear and concise schedule for crate training your Goldendoodle, as this will help you to stay on track and get the best results. The schedule should include specific times for feeding, playing, and going to the toilet, as well as regular rest times in the crate.

A sample schedule for crate training your Goldendoodle:

  • 7am: Wake up, feed, and take your dog outside to go to the toilet.
  • 8am: Playtime and exercise.
  • 9am: Rest time in the crate.
  • 12pm: Wake up, feed, and take your dog outside to go to the toilet.
  • 1pm: Playtime and exercise.
  • 2pm: Rest time in the crate.
  • 5pm: Wake up, feed, and take your dog outside to go to the toilet.
  • 6pm: Playtime and exercise.
  • 7pm: Rest time in the crate for the night.

Step 1: Gradually Introduce the Crate

Begin by introducing your Goldendoodle to the crate gradually. Place a treat inside the crate and let your pup explore it at its own pace. Do not force your pup into the crate. Praise and reward your pup when it enters the crate and repeat this process several times a day.

Step 2: Feed Meals in the Crate

Start feeding your Goldendoodle its meals in the crate. This will help your pup associate positive experiences with the crate. Place the food dish inside the crate and let your pup eat its meal inside the crate. Praise and reward your pup after it finishes eating.

Step 3: Short Stay and Leave Training

Start with short stays in the crate, gradually increasing the length of time your Goldendoodle spends in the crate. Practice “stay” and “leave” commands in the crate. When you give the “stay” command, close the crate door and stand by it for a minute. Then, open the crate and give the “leave” command. Reward and praise your pup for staying in the crate and leaving it on command.

Step 4: Gradually Increase Crate Time

Gradually increase the amount of time your Goldendoodle spends in the crate each day. At first, aim for about 15-30 minutes and increase by 5-10 minutes each day. If your pup shows signs of distress, slow down and provide comfort and reassurance.

Step 5: Practice Leaving the House

Once your Goldendoodle is comfortable staying in the crate for 30-60 minutes, begin practicing leaving the house for short periods. Gradually increase the length of time you are away, starting with just a few minutes and increasing over several days or weeks.

Crate training your Goldendoodle using a schedule can help make the process smoother and more effective. Always be patient and consistent, and remember to reward and praise your pup throughout the training process. With time and patience, your Goldendoodle will learn to love its crate and view it as a safe and secure place.

Tips for a Successful Crate Training Experience

Crate training your Goldendoodle can be a positive and rewarding experience if you follow these simple tips.

  • Be patient and consistent with your training
  • Offer plenty of praise and treats for good behavior
  • Avoid using the crate as a punishment
  • Gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in the crate