Normalizing Crates and Pens
Spending time while you’re home in the space they’re in while alone builds a puppy or dog’s comfort level and self-confidence with separations. Practicing this at various times of the day and for varying amounts of time is commonly called “normalizing” being in there. It’s easier on your pup when you’re out, if they’ve been in there many times while you’re home.
Daily Opportunities:
- Human mealtimes (cooking and/or consuming)
- When feeding or bathing children or other pets
- While cleaning the house
- While bringing groceries or packages inside or taking things to the car
- While unloading groceries or packages
- While showering
- While getting the mail
- During movie and game nights
- During deliveries
- During workouts
- During phone and video calls
Literally anytime you’ll be spending time in the room where the crate or pen is located is a good time to practice.
Please Note:
I’m not recommending puppies or dogs spend hours in the crate while you’re home.
Short, frequent crate visits are more effective for “normalizing” than 1 hour or longer stays will be. Repetition, rather than duration, is key for positive results.
