Dogs are naturally den creatures, meaning they like to have a place to go where they feel safe and secure.
Crate training is not cruel. Many people equate a crate with a cage. There is a huge difference! A crate is not to be used as a cage to keep your dog in day in and day out.
Crate training is one of the most effective ways to provide your Chihuahua (or any small dog) with a safe, comfortable space. However, many pet owners unknowingly make one crucial mistake that can turn the crate into a place of stress rather than security.
The Biggest Crate Training Mistake: Using the Crate as Punishment
One of the most common mistakes people make when crate training is using the crate as a form of punishment. If your Chihuahua associates the crate with negative experiences it can create anxiety and resistance toward crate time. Instead of being a cozy den, the crate becomes a place of isolation and fear. Never lock your Chihuahua in a crate because he or she misbehaved, or because they had an accident in the house.
Dogs, especially small breeds like Chihuahuas, thrive on positive reinforcement. If they associate the crate with punishment, they’ll resist going inside, whine excessively, or even develop separation anxiety. This not only makes crate training difficult but can lead to behavioral issues down the line.
What to Do Instead: Make the Crate a Positive, Safe Space
Instead of using the crate as a consequence for bad behavior, follow these steps to make sure that your Chihuahua sees the crate as a happy, inviting, and safe place.
1. Choose the right crate
Not all crates are right for a Chihuahua. It should be just the right size for your Chihuahua to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
If it is too big they might use one corner as a bathroom. Too small and they’ll feel cramped. If you’re looking for a well-sized and comfortable option, check out this highly-rated small dog crate.
For small dogs I prefer a crate that opens in the front and on top. It is easier to put in and take out bedding and to lift out your Chihuahua from the top than having to crouch to do those things from the front. Like the one that I use.
2. Introduce the crate gradually
Don’t try to force your Chi inside, let them explore it on their own at their own pace. Just leave the door open and place treats or a favorite toy inside. Dogs are curious and he or she will soon go check it out.
A comfy crate mat or bed can also make it more inviting—this plush crate bed is a great option for extra coziness.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Whenever your Chi willingly goes into the crate, reward them with treats, praise, or even a chew toy. Over time, they’ll begin associating the crate with good things. For extra encouragement, you can try a crate training aid like this calming spray to help ease anxiety.
4. Make Crate Time Enjoyable
Instead of only using the crate when you leave the house, encourage your Chihuahua to nap inside during the day. Give them meals in their crate or offer a special chew toy that they only get while crated. This builds a positive association and prevents them from feeling trapped.
5. Avoid Long Periods of Crating
Crates should never be used for extended confinement. Young puppies can typically only hold their bladder for a few hours, and adult dogs shouldn’t be crated for more than 4-6 hours at a time. If you need a safe space while you’re away, consider using a larger playpen instead—this adjustable pet pen is a great alternative.
final thoughts
Crate training should be a stress-free, positive experience for your Chihuahua. By avoiding the mistake of using it as punishment and instead creating a welcoming environment, your pup will learn to love their crate as a cozy retreat.
If you’re looking for the best crate for your small dog, be sure to check out our recommended options here. With the right approach, crate training can be an enjoyable and rewarding process for both you and your furry friend!
Have raised Chesapeake Bay Retrieverssince I was young.
my son, now does the same. He is an avid waterfowl hunter, and trains his own dogs.
the first lessons they are taught, is crate/ kennel living and transporting.
a crate is meant to be a dogs ” safe haven”, the first place they can feel secure.
hitting the crate and spraying the dog, certainly won’t give them the security they are looking for!
a young dog should not view his kennel as a frightening place. Or any dog for that matter!
your methods are incorrect. And I bet if you tried to put your adult dog back into the crate that it learned by your actions was not a comfortable, secure place, the poor traumatized thing would not be happy.
Hi Elizabeth! Thank you for reaching out. You are absolutely correct! That is a very old post written in 2016. It was incorrect then and it is incorrect now! I had interviewed a registered dog trainer in our area for that post. Those suggestions were what she told me. I have since learned that not all of her methods are correct or humane! I need to delete or update that post. I didn’t even realize it was still available to readers. Thank you again for pointing that out and I will immediately delete or update that post. Thank you again for reaching out. The very last thing I want is to give my readers incorrect advice or tips! ~ Linda