How to Introduce Your Dog to a GUNNER Kennel
By GUNNER | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn step-by-step how to help your dog feel safe and happy in a GUNNER kennel. Use positive crate training to reduce anxiety and build a strong association.
Quick Answer
Introduce your dog to a GUNNER kennel by making it a positive, gradual experience. Start with the kennel door open and use treats, meals, and short stays to build comfort. Never force your dog inside, and keep sessions short until they choose to enter on their own.
Why a GUNNER Kennel Is Different
GUNNER kennels are double-walled and built to provide superior impact protection and thermal stability. This design means the interior stays quieter and more insulated than single-walled crates, which can help a nervous dog feel more secure. However, the solid construction also means your dog cannot see out as easily, so gradual introduction is especially important to prevent anxiety.
Step-by-Step Kennel Introduction
- Place the Kennel in a Familiar Area: Set the GUNNER kennel in a room where your dog already feels comfortable, like the living room or kitchen. Leave the door open and remove the pad or bedding so your dog can explore without pressure. Common mistake: putting the kennel in a remote or noisy area. Keep it where the family spends time so the crate feels like part of the home.
- Build Positive Association with Treats and Meals: Toss treats inside the kennel and let your dog retrieve them. Feed meals near the kennel, then gradually move the bowl inside. Use high-value rewards like chicken or cheese to create a strong positive link. Checkpoint: If your dog refuses to go near the kennel, back up and toss treats closer to the entrance until they relax.
- Practice Short, Closed-Door Sessions: Once your dog willingly enters, close the door for just a few seconds while giving a treat through the front. Gradually extend the time to 30 seconds, then a minute. Stay nearby and speak calmly. Common mistake: closing the door too long too soon. Watch for signs of stress like panting, whining, or pawing at the door, and shorten the session if needed.
- Add Comfort Items and Increase Duration: Add a soft bed or blanket and a safe chew toy. Close the door for 5-10 minutes while you are in the same room. Slowly work up to longer periods, and always let your dog out before they become anxious. Checkpoint: Your dog should be able to relax with the door closed for 30 minutes while you are home before you try leaving them alone in the kennel.
- Practice Leaving the Room and Short Absences: With your dog settled in the kennel, step out of the room for a few seconds, then return and reward. Gradually increase your absence to a few minutes. This teaches your dog that you will always come back. Common mistake: leaving for too long on the first try. Start with absences short enough that your dog does not notice you are gone.
Product Facts
- G1™ KENNEL - Ducks Unlimited Orange: The market's safest dog crate, proven to save. The only double-walled kennel on the market that provides 2x the shock protection & superior thermal properties. The double-wall design reduces noise and temperature swings, which helps your dog stay calm during crate training and travel.
