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Akita crate training is crucial to prevent your dog from chewing on items in your home or during housetraining. But there’s more than simply putting him in and closing the door. So how do you crate train your Akita, and what do you need to know to get started? We’ve got your comprehensive guide to crate training an Akita puppy.
Let’s dive right in!
The Benefits of Crate Training an Akita Puppy
People usually view crates as being “caged up” since they are small and enclosed, but most dogs like living in these conditions because they are naturally denning animals.
If you use the crate properly, it will become one of your dog’s favorite places. Crates can benefit both you and your Akita in the following ways:
- Give your dog a space of his own.
- Keep him (and your stuff) safe.
- Provide a recovery zone when he needs to restrict his movement due to an injury.
- Give your dog a sense of security that can reduce his anxiety.
- Encourage potty training.
That’s why you should train your Akita puppy as soon as you bring him home, usually around 8 weeks old.
Supplies Needed for Crate Training an Akita Puppy
If you want the crate to be his favorite place, you have to make sure that you choose the right crate for him. It’s not difficult because you just need to consider a few things like type and size.
We can divide crates into two basic types: plastic crates like the Petmate Sky Dog & Cat Kennel and wire crates like the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate.
The next part is choosing the correct size. The crate should be large enough for your Akita to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably.
According to the AKC, Akitas can reach a height of 28 inches and a weight of 130 pounds. With a large breed like this, the best option may be the largest-sized wire crates that have more versatility when it comes to door placement and customizing the size of the interior with a divider.
For example, the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate is available in sizes up to XL and includes a divider panel allowing you to adjust the size of the living area as your puppy grows.
However, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your choice should be based on the reasons that motivated you to buy it.
Selecting the Best Dog Crate
For almost any Akita — Wire Crate
For Akitas who loves a privacy space — Plastic Crate
For traveling Akitas — Soft-Sided Crate
Other Crate Training Supplies
Unfortunately, successful Akita crate training requires more than just a crate. Here are the other supplies you will need:
Treats
Tasty treats are an essential part of crate training an Akita puppy or any other type of training you want to do with your dog.
Something low in calories, small in size, but tasty enough to keep your dog interested like Wellness Soft Puppy Bites Lamb & Salmon Recipe Grain-Free Dog Treats is a good option for training.
Toys
Toys help your Akita chill out and keep him happy in the crate. Before letting your dog play alone with any toy, always check its durability to make sure your dog can’t bite pieces of it off that could be a choking hazard.
A treat-stuffable toy like the KONG Classic is durable enough to withstand the strong teeth of Akitas and also can be filled according to your dog’s toy unpacking level.
Bedding
It’s nice for your Akita to have something comfy to lay and sleep on when in his crate, but avoid extra-plush dog beds. For puppies still getting used to the crate, a simple crate mat like the MidWest Quiet Time Deluxe Micro Terry Dog Crate Mat is a good option.
Where should you put your puppy’s crate?
The ideal spot to put your puppy’s crate is a location that’s quiet enough for him to sleep but not too far off that he doesn’t associate the crate with social isolation. It can be a corner of the living room, dining room, or any common gathering place for your family.
How to Crate Train an Akita Puppy: Step by Step
Positive association is fundamental for the success of Akita crate training. Here’s how it’s done.
Step 1: Introduce Your Akita to The Crate
Start training by taking the door off or keeping it propped open to allow your Akita to explore the crate at his own pace.
If your Akita is hesitant to enter the crate, leave the treats inside so he can get them whenever he’s ready.
Step 2: Practice Closing the Door
Your Akita puppy will be ready for longer sessions inside once he already has a positive association with going into the crate.
Give your dog a stuffed toy to keep him entertained inside the crate. Stay nearby, and while your dog is enjoying the toys and treats inside, try to close the door. Let your Akita out after he finishes the treats or exhibits signs that he needs to go outside.
Step 3: Step Away Briefly
Try leaving the room during subsequent sessions while your dog is focusing on the treats and toys.
Spend five to ten minutes silently sitting next to the crate, then go into another room for a few minutes. Go back, sit quietly again for a short time, and then let your dog out. Gradually extend the time you leave your Akita in the crate and the time you are out of sight.
You can start putting your Akita in the crate when you go outside your house and letting him sleep there at night once he can stay calmly in the crate for around 30 minutes with you mostly out of sight.
Depending on your dog’s age, temperament, and past experiences, crate training may take a few days or weeks.
Akita Crate Training Tips and Tricks
The following handy tips can help speed up the Akita crate training process:
- Always let your puppy go to the toilet before putting him in the crate, and don’t forget to take him outside immediately after letting him out.
- Never use his crate for punishment. The most important part of crate training is ensuring that your Akita thinks it’s a great place!
- Avoid keeping your dog in the crate for too long. Dogs who don’t get enough exercise or human interaction can become anxious and depressed.
Following the three-step approach described above and putting all of these tips into practice will likely help your puppy quickly feel comfortable in his crate. It’s a huge life improvement for both you and your furry best friend.
Get this Ultimate Masterclass Bundle to access all the training your dog will ever need, from puppyhood to senior, or check out the free guide below to learn the basics.
I hope this article really helped you and your dog training plan.
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