Alaskan malamutes are loyal working and family dogs.
The Alaskan malamute has a long history with the Alaskan people. Dogs and sleds were the most prized possessions and the only possible mode of transportation for some time. These dogs were valued as a part of the family, working and playing together. Malamutes continue to have a strong desire to work and be with people. Malamutes are eager to please their owners, which contributes to the success of training. Crate training is recommended and used frequently to assist in housebreaking and to give your dog a place of his own.
Crates
There are three types of dog crates--wire, plastic and soft-sided. The soft-sided crates can be easier to transport, but not recommended for chewing puppies or large breed dogs. The plastic crate is the type required by airlines for dogs traveling in the cargo area. These crates offer limited visibility and are easy to clean. It is important to use the appropriate size crate for your dog. A smaller crate might be right for a puppy, but too small when your malamute has reached his adult size. The wire crate is most commonly recommended because it offers full visibility, is easy to clean and the size can be adjusted for a growing dog.
Benefits
The benefits of crate training your malamute can be combined into two important items--the crate helps with housebreaking and it gives your dog a place of his own. Crate-trained dogs typically become housebroken faster. Dogs need to have a "den," a cozy place to relax, sleep or hide. There will be times when your malamute needs to get away from the noise or activity of the house. The crate can also lessen separation anxiety by making the dog feel safe when you are gone.
Housebreaking
Dogs will naturally not want to relieve themselves where they sleep. Puppies should always be with you, in their crate or outside. This sets your malamute puppy up for success in becoming housebroken. Your puppy will need to relieve himself upon waking, about every two to three hours during the day, and after playing or eating. Train your malamute to know he will go outside from his crate first thing in the morning and just before bed. Setting this routine will help him know what to expect and establish you as the leader. Using a routine throughout the day for feeding, crate time, play and outside time is also necessary.
Training Process
Place the crate in a room where your dog can see you. Your malamute might want time in his den, but he will still want to be able to see you. When introducing the crate, take the door off, letting your puppy go in and out. Put a treat outside and inside the crate. You can feed your dog in or next to the crate to reinforce that this is a good place. Even if you puppy enjoys his crate during the day, he will probably whine the first couple of nights. Stay strong. It is important for your dog to learn that he will sleep in the crate at night.
Philosophy
The crate is not a punishment. It is critical that you understand the crate is a safe haven for your dog. You can line it with soft blankets, a pillow or a dog bed to make it cozy. You can give your malamute a treat for using the crate. This safe haven gives security and comfort to your dog. It also makes sure he is safe when he is inside alone, instead of chewing and being destructive. As a responsible owner, do not feel guilty for crate training your puppy. Also do not use the crate as a puppy prison. Using the crate properly will be beneficial to you, your malamute and your house.
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