Crate Familiarization Training Your Dog

Familiarising and Training Our Dog to Use a Travel Crate for Long Journeys

Preparing our furry friend for long journeys was not something we took lightly. Ensuring that our dog would feel safe and comfortable during travel was our top priority, especially when we planned longer trips. We invested in a quality travel crate early on, and here’s how we familiarised and trained our dog to use it effectively.

The Importance of a Travel Crate

Travel crates provide numerous benefits both for the pet and the owner. According to the American Kennel Club, using a travel crate helps minimize disruption in transportation, offering a cozy space for dogs during travel (source). This was crucial, as statistics show that dogs often experience anxiety during long journeys, leading to potential safety concerns.

Steps We Took to Acclimate Our Dog

1. Introduce the Crate Early: We bought the travel crate well before our planned journey and placed it in a familiar area of our home. This allowed our dog to explore it on their own terms.
2. Meal Time in the Crate: We began feeding our dog inside the crate to create a positive association. We ensured that all meals were enjoyable, making the crate a happy place.
3. Training the ‘Box’ Command: Using simple command training, we taught our dog the word “box” to signify going into the crate. Consistent use of this command helped build an understanding and routine.
4. Gradual Increase of Time: Starting with short durations, we gradually increased the time our dog spent in the crate. This was crucial, especially when they had to stay inside during longer travel.

Supplementary Tips for Traveling with Dogs

• Always ensure adequate ventilation in the crate by selecting a suitable model.
• Plan ahead and include breaks during the journey for stretching and bathroom needs. For longer trips, consider using nearby dog-friendly parks on routes, such as Central Park in New York.
• Bring familiar items such as a favorite toy or blanket to provide comfort.

As a result of these steps, our dog became not only familiar but also comfortable with traveling in the crate. We found that consistency was key, and over time, the travel crate became a safe haven for our pet during journeys.

We hope this guide will be helpful to fellow dog owners preparing for travels. By prioritizing familiarisation and training with the travel crate, we can assure a safer, stress-free journey for you and your furry friend.

Create Freedom for Your Adventure

Beccy (🇦🇺 Travel Consultant)

Hi, I’m Beccy—a former travel consultant now living the dream as an adventurer mum, creating freedom for our family’s adventures! With nearly a decade of experience in the travel industry, I’ve honed my skills as the ultimate planner and operations expert—not just for our epic journeys, but for the everyday logistics that keep our adventures running smoothly. From scoring great deals on flights to tracking down the best local dog parks, I’ve embraced parent life without letting it slow us down. Together, we’re proving that adventure and family life can go hand in hand.