Crate Training Dogs With Separation Anxiety

 There's no creature that can capture your heart quicker than a dog who loves you. One loving glance from them and your heart is in a puddle. 

That's why it's so distressing when they suffer from separation anxiety. Crate training is often an effective method of relieving separation anxiety, but it doesn't happen overnight. 

This CBD calming treat for dogs can help your pet get comfortable during crate training. Learn more.

This guide intends to help you help your senior dog with separation anxiety through crate training. 

How to Crate Train an Anxious Dog with Separation Anxiety

Crate training is effective at relieving separation anxiety because it allows your dog to be comfortable in your absence. Gradually increasing your time away from the crate & familiarizing your dog with the kennel eventually creates a healthy sense of separation.

You’ll need:

• A spacious crate
• Comfortable padding
• Treats & toys

1. Find The Appropriate Place for Your Dog's Crate

Good places for your dog’s crate:

• Your bedroom

• Your living room or family room

• Your kitchen

• Anywhere that’s safe, comfortable, and near your family

Risk factors to avoid:

• Electrical wires

• Direct sunlight

• Areas with a draft

• Areas with constant noise (humming, buzzing, thuds, etc.)

Once you’ve got the right spot, sweeten the deal by making the crate comfortable. Throw in their favorite blanket, sprinkle a few toys around the pen, and do your part to make it feel like home.

2. Let Your Dog Get Comfortable with The Crate on Their Own

Now, it’s time to introduce your dog to the crate. Before they get there, place their favorite treats in a few strategic spots. Crate training for older dogs is all about making them feel comfortable. 

Here are some tips for making your dog's crate a perfect place to relieve their anxiety.

Comfortable Bedding

• Choose Soft Bedding: Use a plush bed or blanket that provides comfort and warmth. Ensure it's washable for easy cleaning.
• Add Familiar Items: Include a favorite blanket or clothing that carries your scent to help soothe your dog.

Toys and Chews

• Include Safe Chew Toys: Provide a few durable chew toys or interactive toys to keep your dog engaged.
• Stuffed Toys: Consider using puzzle toys filled with treats or peanut butter to make the crate a fun place.

Personal Space

• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the crate isn’t cluttered. Your dog should have enough space to move around comfortably.
• Create a Den-like Environment: Use a crate cover or blanket over the top to create a cozy, den-like atmosphere if your dog feels secure in enclosed spaces.

Location

• Place the Crate Strategically: Position the crate in a quiet but central area of your home, where your dog can feel included but not overwhelmed.
• Avoid Isolation: Don’t place the crate in a completely isolated room. Dogs with separation anxiety often need to feel connected to their family.

Positive Associations

• Feed Meals in the Crate: Start feeding your dog their meals inside the crate to create positive associations.
• Use Treats: Scatter treats or kibble inside the crate to encourage exploration and create a rewarding experience.

Familiar Sounds

• Leave a TV or Radio On: Play soft music or leave the TV on to provide background noise that can comfort your dog when you’re not home.

Calm Atmosphere

• Keep It Calm: Avoid loud noises and stressful situations near the crate. A calm environment will help your dog feel more secure.

Gradual Introduction

• Introduce the Crate Slowly: Allow your dog to explore the crate at their own pace. Don’t force them inside; encourage them with treats and praise.

By implementing these strategies, you can create an inviting and comforting crate space for your older dog, helping to alleviate their anxiety and promote a positive crate training experience.

3. Associate Food with The Crate

Now that you’ve got a good association in place, it’s time to start getting your dog to settle down a little bit. You can do this by allowing them to eat near, then inside of the cage.

Crate Training Food Bowl Timeline

Day 1

• Place the food bowl just outside of the open cage.

Day 2

• Place the food bowl just inside of the cage entrance.

Day 3

• Place the food bowl inches inside of the entrance. Leave the door open.

Day 4

• Place the bowl halfway inside the cage. Door half-open.

Day 5

• Place the bowl three-quarters into the cage. Door nearly closed.

Day 6

• The bowl goes all the way to the back of the cage. Door nearly closed.

Day 7

• Place the bowl at the back of the cage again, and close the door.

Days 8-15

• Feed your dog inside the cage with the cage closed. Leave them inside the cage for five minutes on day 8, adding five additional minutes to each consecutive day.

Two weeks of eating in the cage should establish a strong sense of trust in the environment. Food is also the greatest motivator, so their association with the place positive.

4. Focus on Extending Time Away from Your Dog in Their Crate

Week 1: Introduction and Short Durations

Days 1-3

• Allow your dog to explore the crate while you’re home. Start with short sessions of about 5-10 minutes, gradually increasing to 15 minutes.

Days 4-7

• Begin closing the door for short periods (5-15 minutes) while you’re still in the room.

Week 2: Gradual Departures

Days 8-10

• Increase crate time to 20-30 minutes while you’re home. Begin to leave the room for short periods (up to 10 minutes) and then return.

Days 11-14

• Start practicing leaving the house for short outings (5-15 minutes) while your dog is crated.

Week 3: Building Up Time

Days 15-17

• Increase the time to 30-45 minutes when you leave the house. Monitor your dog's behavior when you return.

Days 18-21

• Aim for 1-hour sessions in the crate while you’re out, ensuring they have had enough exercise and bathroom breaks beforehand.

Week 4: Longer Sessions

Days 22-24

• Increase crate duration to 1-2 hours, practicing longer outings.

Days 25-28

• If your dog is adjusting well, aim for 2-4 hours, depending on their comfort and age.

Beyond Week 4: Full Transition

• Gradually work up to 4-6 hours, especially if your dog is older and has bladder control.

Feel free to adjust any part of this timeline based on your dog’s individual needs.

Common Obstacles and Concerns When Crate Training Dogs with Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety can be a serious issue, so there are a lot of things that could potentially come up in the process. The following answers should address the majority of your concerns. 

Do You Need a Heavy Duty Dog Crate for Separation Anxiety?

There are some situations where you may need a stronger, more durable crate for your anxious dog. Here's when you need a stronger crate, and when a standard crate is sufficient.

When to Consider a Heavy-Duty Crate:

1. Destructive Behavior: If your dog has a history of chewing, scratching, or escaping, a heavy-duty crate can withstand more wear and tear.
2. Large or Strong Breeds: Larger dogs or more muscular breeds may require a sturdier crate to prevent them from breaking out.
3. Training Duration: If you plan on using the crate for longer periods, a durable option can provide peace of mind.

When a Standard Crate is Sufficient:

1. Calm Temperament: If your dog is generally calm and doesn't exhibit destructive tendencies, a standard crate may be enough.
2. Proper Introduction: If you gradually introduce the crate and make it a positive space, a regular crate can work well.

What to Do For Dogs With Separation Anxiety at Night

When crate training a dog with separation anxiety, the timeline for transitioning them from the bedroom to a separate space can vary based on the dog's comfort level. Here’s a general approach:

Initial Phase (Weeks 1-2)

• Crate in Bedroom: Start by placing the crate in your bedroom. This helps your dog feel secure and reduces anxiety from your presence.
• Gradual Acclimation: Allow your dog to adjust to the crate while you are nearby, gradually increasing the time they spend inside.

Intermediate Phase (Weeks 3-4)

• Short Separations: Begin practicing short separations while your dog is in the crate, gradually leaving the room for a few minutes at a time.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behavior when you return to the room.

Transition Phase (Weeks 5-6)

• Move the Crate: Once your dog is comfortable being crated in the bedroom, start moving the crate to a nearby room (like a living room or hallway) for short periods.
• Monitor Comfort: Observe how your dog reacts to the new location. If they show signs of distress, consider extending the time in the bedroom before moving.

Final Phase (Weeks 7 and Beyond)

• Establish a New Routine: Gradually increase the time your dog spends in the crate in the new location. Aim to do this during times when you are home, gradually extending to when you leave the house.
• Gradual Independence: Once your dog is comfortable in the new location, you can begin leaving them alone for longer periods, ensuring they have had plenty of exercise and bathroom breaks beforehand.

Additional Tips

• Patience is Key: Every dog is different, so be patient and go at your dog's pace.
• Reinforce Positivity: Continuously reward your dog for calm behavior to build positive associations with being crated away from you.

By following this gradual approach, you can help your dog adjust to being alone in a separate space while reducing their anxiety.

When is It Time to Hire a Professional for Separation Anxiety?

If your dog's separation anxiety is extreme, it may require professional intervention. Here are some indications that your dog's distress is beyond your pay grade and requires more extensive support:

Persistent Anxiety

• If your dog continues to exhibit severe anxiety symptoms (e.g., excessive barking, destructive behavior, or attempts to escape) despite consistent training efforts.

Escalating Behavior

• If your dog’s anxiety worsens over time, leading to more severe reactions when left alone.

Injury Risk

• If your dog injures themselves trying to escape from the crate or causes damage to your home that poses a safety risk.

Lack of Progress

• If you’ve tried various training methods for an extended period (several weeks to months) without any noticeable improvement.

Need for Tailored Strategies

• If your dog’s anxiety seems linked to specific triggers or requires a more individualized approach that you’re unsure how to implement.

Generalized Anxiety

• If your dog exhibits anxiety in other situations (not just when crated) that affects their quality of life.

Difficulty with Training

• If you’re struggling to implement training techniques or if the methods you've tried aren’t effective.

Professional Guidance Recommended

• If your veterinarian suggests consulting a professional behaviorist or trainer as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Medication Consideration

• If your dog may benefit from medication to help manage anxiety, a professional can assist with a proper evaluation and prescription.

References

1. https://cozycrates.review/leave-dog-in-a-crate/
2. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-crate-training-is-great-for-your-dog/
3. https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/sites/g/files/dgvnsk491/files/inline-files/Crate_Training_Your_Puppy.pdf
4. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/can-old-dogs-learn-new-tricks