Crates aren't cruel, according to the American Kennel Club. They give puppies a safe place and keep them out of trouble.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — No matter how much you love your little furry friend, taking care of a dog takes time, diligence, compassion — and money.

Teaching dogs new behavior, and how to respond to our behavior is a full-time job — one that pet owners eagerly accept, but many find overwhelming.

That’s why we checked with experts and got a few tips to help keep your dog happy and well-behaved.

All agreed that positive reinforcement is the way to go. Treats, toys, love. That’s what pets respond to, so having the right treats and toys on hand will go a long way, trainers say.

To keep pets interested in toys, trainers suggest you not leave them out at all times. Instead, pack them away and introduce only one at a time. That way, your pet will be excited to see it.

We found a few items praised by pet experts to help your training go smoothly, and a few we just thought were cool:

The BestPet Double-Door Metal Dog Crate comes with a divider and tray. Get it at Walmart.com

Crates and pens for puppies and dogs are not cruel. Just the opposite, according to The American Kennel Club (AKC), which reminds owners that a puppy is an “infant dog, not a miniature adult.’’ As such, they are limited physically and mentally. “Nobody would think of giving a human toddler total freedom in a home, and puppies need the same careful supervision,’’ says the AKC. “Eliminating opportunities for accidents and destructive behavior by crating your dog will get you through the puppy phase with most of your stuff intact. Crates help make sure that bad habits never get a chance to take hold.” Some are portable and come in colors that complement your home’s decor.

The Noyal Dog Slow Feeder Bowl is a non- slip puzzle bowl the keeps dogs from gulping down their food, preventing choking. (Courtesy of Noyal)

Trainers know that dogs love mental stimulation. And they often eat their food too fast, causing them to overeat or even choke. Owners can kill two birds with one stone with a dog puzzle feeder. They’re available in a huge variety of patterns and colors. The You can use a puzzle toy, too, with your dog’s favorite treat, to keep a pet busy for hours!

The Wainbowa 4-pack of interactive food and treat dispensing dog toys are great for small, medium and large dogs. They are available at Amazon.com. (Courtesy of Wainbowa)

Another option is a ball that works for play and mental stimulation. Trainers call them “enrichment toys,’’ because they distribute goodies as your pet has fun playing with them and learning.

Good 'n' Fun Triple Flavor Kabobs Chicken, Duck & Chicken Liver Dog Chews. (Courtesy of Good 'n' Fun).

Everyone likes a happy pup. Treats make this a reality. They also can be used to prompt or reinforce good behavior, so you get happy family members and guests, too. Trainers encourage us to reward dogs for good behavior. That way, they learn to repeat those behaviors, instead of the ones you want to discourage.

Treats help you do this. And why not get good ones? Keep them conveniently located, where offensive behaviors occur: Near the front door, on the kitchen counter, etc., the AKC advises. There are dozens of fashionable treat containers to choose from that will look great on your counter or in your vestibule.

Toys that squeak keeps dogs busy and happy. Marvin the Moose Plush Dog Toy by KONG is available in a set and comes in a variety of sizes. (Courtesy of KONG)

Toys are available to slow down fast eating and encourage play. Plush toys, especially those that squeak, will surprise and excite dogs. Bobble toys, available in varying sizes, do just that.

The StarMark Bob-A-Lot Interactive Dog Toy is available on Amazon.com. (Courtesy of StarMark)

Dogs love to play. And toys these days entice dogs to do just that. A treat at the end of a play session only makes things better. Weighted, anti-slip bobble toys accommodate most types of dog food and allow you to adjust the difficulty level.

Tailor dog training to your pet’s unique traits and energy level — leading to quick results and a much happier pup. (Courtesy of Zak George)

Zak George, a well-known YouTube star and Animal Planet personality, helps you tailor dog training to your pet’s unique traits and energy level — leading to quick results and a much happier pup. In his book, “Dog Training Revolution,’' George distills the information from his hundreds of videos and experience with thousands of dogs. It’s also available as an audiobook.

Another option is “Puppy Training in 7 Easy Steps,’' by Zoom Room Dog Training. It’s also available as an audiobook.

Natural Dog Company Multivitamin Chews promote healthier heart, immune system, joints, skin and coat. (Courtesy of Natural Dog Company)

Diet Aids: Canine multivitamins ensure a healthier heart, immune system, skin and coat.

Bone broth provides dogs with amino acids: Arginine, glycine, glutamine and proline, along with nutrients: thiamine, potassium, zinc, calcium, sulfur, magnesium, phosphorus, among other trace minerals.

Roll over image to zoom in The Mighty Paw Smart Bell 2.0 Dog Potty Communication Doorbell is a lightweight press button doorbell that allows your dog to communicate easily when he needs to go out. (Courtesy of Mighty Paw)

Door bells and buzzers allow your dog to be trained to communicate with you without scratching up your door or barking up a storm. You train them to step on the appropriate buzzer to let you know their needs.

A cozy bed: A high-quality bed, designed for maximum comfort, is a great investment for your pet. Some are soft and quilted, while others with offer orthopedic advantages. Most have removable covers for quick cleaning in a washing machine.

A portable Doggie Lawn helps your pet avoid accidents when you're not available to let him out. (Courtesy of Doggie Lawn)

Can’t get outside with your dog in time? Indoor puppy pee pads help avoid accidents. The DoggieLawn version is an indoor litter box for dogs, made from natural grass. Perfect for busy dog owners, it allows your pet to relieve himself when you’re not available. It’s a disposable bathroom for your pet.

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