The Importance of Crate Training

There are many misconceptions that putting your dog in a crate is cruel and inhumane.  In actuality, you are providing your dog a safe place to rest.  Any veterinarian or dog trainer will rave over the benefits of a crate for both you and your dog!

 In the wild, dogs sleep in dens to protect themselves from predators.  A canine does not see its crate as prison, which is what many people are afraid of.  For dogs, it’s like having their own room in your home.

Crate training is incredibly beneficial when potty-training a dog.  They won’t want to soil the area where they sleep and will learn self-control easier.  A crate also protects you from experiencing unwanted behaviors, like chewing and garbage scouring, while you are sleeping or at work.

Crates should be big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in, as well as lay down comfortably.  However, there shouldn’t be excess room where they can also relieve themselves and completely avoid the mess when laying down.

In order to get your pup to love his/her crate, make sure you stock it with toys and a treat or two couldn’t hurt until they get the idea.  Remember, dogs are highly social animals and even though they will love their crate, they also love you!  It is important to give your dog the proper affection, play time and exercise outside of the crate.
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Training your dog to use its crate will also relieve their anxiety when it is absolutely necessary to be crated – like when traveling by car or plane, or visits to the vet’s office.  Your dog gets to be in their own familiar space where they feel safe.

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