Dogs
How To Get a Dog to Use a Kennel Outside
Nov
How Do I Get My Dog To Use His Kennel?
Dog kennels, also known as a dog house, is an outdoor shelter for your dog. It provides your dog with a safe place to rest during the day and sleep at night.
A kennel both helps your dog feel secure and also protects him from cold weather and rain.
In this blog post, we’ll give pet advice on how to get your dog introduced to and using his new kennel outside in no time.
Why Will My Dog Not Sleep in His Kennel?
Most dogs like sleeping in a kennel. They naturally prefer resting in enclosed areas that provide safety and protection. Enclosed sleeping areas are also warmer.
However, some dogs may be hesitant about their kennel. Here are some common reasons why:
Too Small
A pet kennel that is too small can be very uncomfortable for a dog. Not only will the dog’s body be cramped and unable to move around, but he may also feel anxious and stressed in such a confined space.
As a result, the dog is likely to remain awake and active, which can lead to sleep problems.
Too Large
If a kennel is too large, your dog’s body heat will not be enough to warm the kennel and your dog will feel cold. This is especially a problem for dogs that are very old, skinny, have very thin coats, or are still a puppy.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds. If a dog suffers from separation anxiety, it may become scared and agitated when away from its owner, especially at night.
As a result, the dog may not want to sleep in a kennel outside while its favourite person is inside.
Signs include whining, pacing, excessive barking, and excessive licking.
How Do I Get My Dog to Use His Doghouse?
A kennel is important as it can provide your pup with a sense of security, and can also help protect him from rain and cold weather.
If your dog is not using his doghouse, there may be some things you can do to encourage him. Keep reading for our tips…
Choose the Right Kennel
The first step is to make sure you choose the most appropriate sized kennel for your dog.
If your dog has too much or too little space in the kennel, he may feel uncomfortable and avoid using it completely.
When buying a kennel online, always look at the internal dimensions provided. Measure your dog’s height and length then compare this to the kennel dimensions.
Alternatively, if you are having trouble measuring your dog, you could instead measure a bed or crate that your dog sleeps in now and compare this to the new dog house.
A dog inside a kennel should be able to stand up and turn around without hitting into the sides, so allow some extra room.
If you’ve looked at the dimensions and are still feeling unsure, contact the company you are purchasing the dog kennel from for help.
Make the Kennel Cosy
Dogs, particularly older dogs, may avoid their kennel if they think it is too uncomfortable.
Most kennels will have a timber floor which is too hard for an old dog to sleep on all night.
Help your dog relax and stay inside by making the kennel cosier. Add in a soft dog bed, pet mattress or thick blanket onto the floor.
Make sure to regularly wash the bedding to keep it free from stains and bad smells.
Positive Association
If your dog or puppy has never slept in a kennel before, it can be a little daunting!
Introduce your puppies or dogs to their new kennel slowly. Let them approach the kennel in your backyard on their own. Allow them to sniff it, walk through the door on their own and explore is slowly.
Create a positive association with the kennel. Play with their favorite toy nearby, put their existing bedding inside, and give them food or treats inside the kennel. Make the new dog kennel their happy place.
If you suddenly force a puppy or dog outside in a kennel for an extended period, he may become overwhelmed and feel trapped. Our advice is also to never force your dog through the kennel door, let him go through once he feels comfortable.
Kennel Training Your Dog
If your pup is still avoiding the dog kennel, you may need to train him to use it.
Always train using positive reinforcement. Encourage your dog to use the kennel. When he does the right thing, reward him with a treat – either food, a pat or praise. Positive reinforcement is effective and will help him quickly learn the kennel is a good place.
Avoid using punishment. This is not an effective training method and may actually train your dog to fear the kennel.
Separation Anxiety Training
If your dog’s issue is separation anxiety, you will need to first teach your dog to be without its owners and feel comfortable being alone. This is a bigger process and you may need help from a professional animal trainer.
It can be difficult to change an older dog’s behavior. Unlike cats, dogs are naturally pack animals and instinctively want the whole family to sleep together.
Can I Keep My Dog in a Kennel Outside?
All dogs are able to use kennels.
If your dog spends all day long or a significant period of time in your yard, a kennel is essential. It will help him feel safe, minimising destructive behaviour and barking. It will also protect him from the rain, cold weather or harsh sunshine.
A kennel is also essential for animals that sleep outdoors overnight.
However, some dogs are not suitable to be outdoors overnight or for long periods. This includes very small dogs (such as chihuahuas), very thin dogs (such as Italian greyhounds) and older dogs.
These dog groups cannot regulate their body temperatures enough to stay warm outdoors.
It is recommended these dogs have a kennel for when they go outdoors during the day to exercise or play, however they should sleep indoors.
READ MORE
- How big should my do kennel be?
- Which Dog kennel is right for me?
- How to stop a dog from barking in kennel
- How to get a dog to use a kennel outside
- How big should my dog crate be?
