Selecting the right crate

Crate training your greyhound can be a great way to assist them in transitioning from a kennel environment into your home. A crate can be used to establish a ‘safe space’ for your greyhound and provides them with a place to retreat to if they are feeling overwhelmed or anxious in the home.

The Dos and Don’ts of Crate Training:

Do:

·         Introduce your greyhound to the crate gradually

·         Choose an appropriately sized crate that allows your dog to stand up, turn around and stretch out with ease

·         Place the crate in a quiet area of the house, away from high volume of foot traffic (i.e. corner of lounge room)

·         Reward your greyhound whenever they use the crate on their own

·         Always ensure that there is an adequate water supply inside the crate. 

Don’t:

·         Your greyhound should not be confined to crate for extended periods of time, as this can have a serious impact on your dog’s welfare.

·         Put the crate in a place where the dog will be disturbed by loud noises or frequent foot traffic (such as the kitchen)

·         Do not send your greyhound to the crate as a punishment. This may cause them to form a negative association with the crate and no longer view it as a positive ‘safe space’

·         Never force your greyhound to go into the crate – the door should remain open and allow them to have choice while training them.