Dog Crate Training the Pros and Cons

Dog crate training can be beneficial for both the dog and the owner if done correctly. It is not as difficult as it seems to convince a dog to regard a crate or plastic kennel as their den or private area. Dogs need a special area that is theirs alone where they can calm down from too much stimulation and sleep in comfort. In the wild a dog might have a den, sheltered from the elements and secure. In a human home a crate can serve the same purpose and sometimes more.

The best crates are made of a sturdy plastic or metal and can be purchased from a pet store online or a brick and mortar store. If purchasing a crate for a puppy it is wise to ensure it is large enough to hold the puppy at full growth. These crates usually have a latching door and are eminently suitable for travel.

Dog Crate Training the Pros

• Create a safe and protected area for the dog to relax by using a crate
• Create an area for the dog to go to when over stimulated or stressed by unusual activities or children.
• Assuring the dog or puppy can’t get into mischief while the owners are away
• Assure fewer accidents when training bowel and urination habits since dogs avoid fouling their sleeping areas if at all possible.

Dogs will often select a small corner or sheltered area as a resting place a crate is not more confined than the areas dogs will normally choose on their own. The owners who must leave the house for periods of time will not return to find their belongings chewed up when a dog is crate trained.

Dog Crate Training Cons

Anxiety can result if the dog is left alone in their crate for periods longer than 5 hours for a mature dog.

Dogs must be immediately taken to their designated elimination areas after being released from their crate. They can be over excited and this must be dealt with firmly but gently.

The potential problems from crate training are few and usually only appear if the owner doesn’t understand the purpose or the crate is abused. Crates provide a protected area but if a dog is left too long in a crate they may not get sufficient exercise or stimulation. Bored dogs can develop unwanted and undesirable behaviors.

Crate training takes patience and repetition just as any other type of training. Crates can be a comfortable refuge if used appropriately. Dogs who have received crate training often have far fewer problems traveling since travel by air and some other public conveyances may require the dog being in a crate.  Holidays can go much more smoothly and if the family stays in a pet friendly hotel, then crates are an ideal home away from home for the dog and help reduce some of the anxiety a dog might experience while traveling.

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