My rescue dog won't go in her crate, what should I do?

Hi,

We just rescued a dog and are trying to crate train her and are in your "foundation phase" of training (in a crate or on lead at all times). The first few times she went into the crate no problems. Now, even treats can't get her inside. She doesn't seem to have a strong den instinct. I started giving her all her food and treats in the crate, but she won't go in when she realizes that I am going to crate her. My question is, how do I get her in the crate? I don't want to physically push her in (she is 40lbs, and I'm not sure that I could physically push her in anyway) as I fear this could make it more stressful on her and make the crate a "bad place" for her. Any suggestions?

Cindy,

Thanks so much! I followed your instructions and also rearranged my 2 dog crates so that they were side by side (instead of in separate rooms), then I started always putting my other dog in the crate first and using their favorite treats only when I put them in the crate. Three days later she goes straight into the crate as soon as she sees me reaching for her treat bag. So exciting! Thanks so much for your help.