December 02, 2021

How do you use the crate for a ’time out’ for a dog that has done something wrong?

Full Question:
Hi Cindy. In one of the videos, Ed suggests giving your dog a "time out" by putting your dog in his crate when he has done something wrong. He said that it doesn't have to be a long time-out period. It can be only a few minutes to be effective. Even so, won't the dog start generalizing being put in their crate with having done something wrong? Won't it cause confusion when you send your dog to his crate to "go to your bed" at night?
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
It shouldn't be a problem because you don't say anything to the dog, you just take them by the collar without any emotion and put them in the crate. It's more of a mental break for the dog and human, if it's done without emotion it shouldn't be an issue.

If you find that you are having to use time-outs all the time, then it's more about re-evaluating your training and management plan. I might use this once or twice over a several-month period if at all. Some dogs never need it.
User Response:
Thanks Cindy. Very good to know that you don't say anything!!!! I haven't needed to use a "time-out", but I wanted to understand how to do it properly should the need arise. So, thanks a lot and I appreciate your prompt reply, Cindy.

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Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
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