In the U.S., Labrador's are the most widely registered dog breed. They are a smart breed and companionable pets suitable even for your children.

From puppies to adult dogs, Labrador's are highly energetic, agile chasers, and retriever of game, toys, and other stuff. Many vets, trainers, dog groomers, and breeders specialize in Labrador's breeds.

The first thing you should expect from your Labrador puppy is to listen and obey your commands quickly. As a puppy, you would want him to be an obedient pet, and mold his behavior to abide the rules at home.

This will involve basic crate training a Labrador puppy as well as care of his needs and well-being.

Starting the training

Crate training a Labrador puppy starts around 10 to 16 weeks. This is also a weaning time from his mother. Training a puppy is much easier than an adult dog. Training him young will yield many positive after effects to his behavior and manners.

While many owners feel that crate training, a Labrador puppy doesn't offer sufficient space for the puppy, it actually stimulates his atmosphere in the wild, where they would only occupy a small space in caves and crags for shelter and protection.

As trainers and training tools will show you, a puppy's instinct will lead him to accept the crate as an environment and later feel comfortable with it.

Crate training a Labrador puppy builds a positive infinity with his shelter. Make him learn to like it, to stay and eat inside it. Once he feels comfortable in it, he will get used to it, and you can allow him to go out if he wishes. It will be his little place to feel safe and protected. However, to us humans, a crate might represent a cramped space, but it could become an exclusive haven for your dog.

A crate is not a place of confinement or punishment, so make your puppy happy by letting him go in and out of it. You should make him stay longer inside the crate, giving him treats for staying relaxed.

This is also one of the best ways of teaching him that you are in command. While crate training a Labrador puppy, put out any negative impression like scolding him when he's inside or locking him up and ignoring him.

He must be made to understand that the crate is his refuge and place to be happy.

Keeping your puppy comfortable

To keep your puppy comfortable and happy with crate door closed, you must stay within sight. Your puppy, though, will constantly check on your whereabouts through hearing and smelling the air or looking in your direction. You may hear him whining, or barking.

At this point, in training, you must ignore your pup when he's not behaving properly. Never let him get in the way of training by letting him do what he wants. Give him attention only when he behaves. You can take him out for a walk when he is completely calm and relaxed giving him praises and treats.

Showing less anxiety

Labrador's are playful and people-pleasers creature, but they have a tendency to separation anxiety. Hence, a Labrador puppy who has been crate trained is less prone to this behavior.

And, in periods of anxiety attacks, your puppy will have learned to retreat in his sanctuary, his crate, instead of bringing himself into frenzy. He can go there quietly when he is upset.

Housebreaking and a place in your home

Crate training a Labrador puppy goes hand in hand with housebreaking training, such as potty training. Your dog now understands not to soil his den or crate and helps him in bladder control as he grows up.

Your dog's pack instinct will come to play as he stays indoors. He will also understand his place in your household. He understands that the leader of the pack is you, and you sleep separately from him, just as in the wild.

A crate trained puppy will have adapted a homey attitude while an untrained puppy will be out of control. The time and patience you took to crate training a Labrador puppy will promote a relaxing and valuable pet relationship in and out of your home.

For more informations about Crate Training a Labrador i highly recommend you take a look at Labrador's Crate Training Advice. Start to get the most out of your Dog Training efforts!