At Dances with Wolves Ranch, we strongly recommend crate-training puppies early. It is good for your dog and your family for many reasons, but here are our top five.

1. Mimics Their Natural Environment 

First, dogs are naturally den animals.  Some people express concern about “caging” their dog, but dogs, it turns out, feel more comfortable and safer when in a small, enclosed space.   

2. Creates a Safe Environment 

Second, as with human babies, we cannot keep our eye on a young puppy 100% of the time.  When not interacting with babies, we put them in a stroller, a bassinet, or a crib to protect them.  We don’t allow our young children to crawl around to play with electric wires or fall stairs.   In the same way, puppies should go someplace safe when we are not actively interacting with them.   They will feel more comfortable, happy, and safe.  

3. Allows You to Control Your Environment

Third, crate training will give you better control of your dog for when guests visit, in an emergency, when it is time for a trip, or when you are away from home.   If you have trained your puppy to go into a crate happily, they will feel comfortable going there when needed.  

4. Improves Your Ability to Travel With Your Dog

Fourth, if you crate train your puppy, he will be used to the crate and will have a much easier, less anxious time when visiting vets or groomers later. 

5. Aids in Potty Training 

Finally, crate training is important for potty training your young puppy.    A young puppy left to wander in a home will find it very confusing where and when he is allowed to go potty and will tend to have accidents and develop bad habits.   Conversely, a puppy naturally won’t want to soil his den, and as long as you are diligent about taking your puppy out frequently, they will learn that there is a correct place to go potty (outside). 

Interested in Raising a Berger Blanc Suisse Puppy?

To summarize, all young puppies should be crate-trained.  They will be happier and feel safer, and this good habit will be very helpful to you and your dog as he grows up. 

Check Out Our Available White Swiss Shepherd Dogs and Puppies! 

If your White Swiss Shepherd dog fears loud noises, such as thunderstorms, firecrackers, sirens, or gunshots, implementing advanced training techniques can aid in overcoming these fears. This training approach is also beneficial for dogs frightened by various noises like motorcycles.

What Is The Training Process?

Start by determining which noise triggers the most fear in your White Swiss Shepherd dog. Once identified, record the specific sound to use in the training process.

Step 1: Gradual Exposure

1. Low-Volume Introduction: Play the recorded sound at a low volume during mealtime. Ensure the volume is gentle enough not to frighten your dog. While he’s eating and remains unfazed by the sounds, praise him. Gradually increase the volume in subsequent feeding session.
2. Monitoring Relaxation: Decrease the volume if your dog doesn’t relax within a few minutes. When he does relax, offer praise or a treat and maintain the current volume for at least five minutes before any further increase.

Step 2: Progressive Session

Initiate short training sessions, gradually escalating the volume during each new session. Over time, extend the duration of the sessions until your White Swiss Shepherd can comfortably confront the recorded noise at a level similar to the real thing.

Step 3: Real Stimulus Exposure

Whenever possible, expose your dog to the actual stimulus gradually. For example, if your White Swiss Shepherd fears firecrackers or lawnmowers, create the sound 100 yards away. Calm your dog and acclimate him to the noise, progressively reducing the distance until he remains unfazed by the sound near his home.

The Importance of Leash Control

During practice sessions, always keep your White Swiss Shepherd on a leash. This precaution ensures that if your dog gets scared and you lose control, he won’t run off.

Remember That Patience is Key

Remember, overcoming fears takes time. Be patient and gradually expose your White Swiss Shepherd to the stimuli that trigger fear. Your dog can conquer these fears with consistent training and positive reinforcement and lead a more comfortable, stress-free life.

Love White Swiss Shepherds? Check out our photo gallery!