There comes a time in every family when the kids just have to get that adorable puppy.
They will beg and plead and probably end up getting their way.
Parents know going into the deal that regardless of how much the little ones promise to take care of the new family member, that it is going to be mom and dad that end up taking care of the dog.
When you finally cave in and decide to let the kids get a dog, the first order of the day is going to be housebreaking the new puppy.
Dog training crates can make that job a lot simpler.
So the kids pick out the cutest puppy and you bring him home.
Everyone oohs and ahhs, but before you know it, the new dog has an accident on the floor.
This is where the training begins.
Remember to not be harsh or mean toward the dog; he doesn't know any better.
It is your job now, maybe with some help from the kids, to get the dog housebroken.
A dog training crate can be your most valuable tool in this training experience.
Choosing a Crate If you didn't get a crate before you got the dog, you will now have to decide on what kind of dog training crate to get.
There are quite a few types to choose from.
If you don't think that you will be moving the crate around much or using it for travel, you may want to go with a wire dog training crate.
These crates are usually the roomiest of the crates available.
Another type of popular dog training crate is the plastic shell crate.
These crates work great for housebreaking and come in handy for travel.
If you think that you might have to fly at any time in the future with dog in tow, many plastic shell crates are approved for airline travel.
A third consideration is the nylon or canvas folding dog crate.
These are particularly good for traveling with smaller breed dogs.
They are easy to clean up and fast to set up on the go.
Getting the Dog into the Crate Once you've purchased your dog training crate, you now need to know how to get the dog to go into it.
This is a process, so you will need to be patient with the cute little guy.
Begin by picking a spot and setting the crate up.
Let the crate just be there for a few days so the dog can sniff it and realize that it is not a threat.
Don't think that your dog is just going to run right into the crate.
Begin leading the dog closer to the crate and praise him in the process.
Remember that this is a new experience for the dog.
You can also put some treats, food or toys inside the crate to coax the dog into going in.
Puppies are often scared to be on their own at night.
You may want to consider keeping the dog training crate in or near your bedroom.
That way the dog has the security of knowing that you are close by when he is inside the crate on those dark nights.
Before too long, your puppy will be used to going into the crate.
If you will be gone for long periods throughout the day, keep the puppy in the crate, release them when you get home and send them outside to do their business.
Then heap on the praise and rewards.
This positive reinforcement will have your new dog loving his dog training crate and he might actually look forward to spending time in his new room.