Should You Crate Train Your Dog

Dog lovers will often feel like crate training is cruel. But dogs can see a crate in a very different light, and crate training is important for your dog’s long-term health.

Crate training helps with housebreaking, teaches overactive dogs how to be still, and helps nervous dogs feel safe.

Just as a time out is not the right method for a small baby, the crate is not the best choice for a new puppy. You will, however need to teach him when he’s young. It’s nice to cuddle your new puppy, but you will want to crate him for a while daily. Your puppy will not chew the house up when you’re gone if you leave him in the crate until you return. It will also train them to not gnaw on other household items such as your favorite pair of shoes or the cord for television cable.

Even after housebreaking, some dogs benefit from crating. Some dogs that are known to be particularly hyper tend to mature into more relaxed dogs as they age. Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety may find comfort in the smaller space of a crate and avoid the worst symptoms.

When implemented correctly, your dog will treat the crate as their own personal space. When the puppy gets sleepy or too excited, they might resort to their crate to relax. Experts say not to use the crate as a punishment, but they may independently go there themselves to calm down.

Even if you have an outdoor dog, crating still can have benefits. There are still times when even the outdoor dog will need to be placed in a crate, such as a kennel, the vet’s office, at a grooming center. Dogs that are used to the crate, even if it isn’t a part of their everyday life, will be less traumatized by the experience.

Remember to not cramp your puppy in the crate. Crates come in several varieties including folding or stationery metal for the house or garage; plastic when traveling with your pet, soft-sided crates to cushion the hurt or injured animal, and there are also crates made to look like furniture. Be sure to select one that will provide adequate ventilation and light for your pet’s comfort.

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