Puppies: The 2:1 rule

Puppies need a lot of time to rest and recharge their batteries... so much more time than most folks realize. I like to go by the general 2:1 rule. So for every 1 hour of supervised and structured time out of the crate (mini 5 minutes training sessions alternated with walks and play), they should have 2 hours of rest in the crate. And this 2 hour rest can be crashed out sleeping or simply calm and awake. Puppies need this time to reflect on what they’ve learned, recharge their batteries and also to learn about being calm and comfortable when they are alone. Too many puppies spend every moment with people, getting endless affection, treats and cuddles and never learn the skills for independence and calm behaviour when they’re left alone. And then at some point the people have to go out and the puppy gets put in a crate and left alone (without having learned and practiced the skills to deal with being comfortable when alone) and they freak out... and here separation anxiety is born. The BEST training we can do for puppies is crate training... it teaches them the skills to be calm and comfortable when alone, it takes care of house training if you follow a strict potty schedule as well, and it gives owners a much need break from the puppy so that you can do house work, cooking, child care, grocery shopping, etc. So knowing that crating is the MOST valuable skill to teach a young puppy, and that there are sooo many important benefits to crate training, we can make the most of their short puppyhood by teaching them these skills which will set them up for a great life!