Some people think placing a dog in a crate is cruel, but this is not true. Dogs have evolved living in dens. Having a confined space they can call their own makes them feel safe and secure. Whether it's a new puppy, or an adult dog, there are many reasons to crate train a pet.
Choosing a Crate
There are all kinds of crates available on the market. A dog crate has to be large enough for the dog to stand up in, and be able to turn all the way around. It is up to the owner to choose the crate that best suits his needs.
Plastic travel crates are handy if you plan to do some traveling with your dog, or to visit the vet. These crates are very closed in though, which scares some animals.
Fabric crates are another option, as they are light weight and easy to store. For puppies or dogs that are prone to chew, fabric is not the best choice. They can be difficult to clean if the puppy has an accident, and the dog may be able to chew out of them.
Most people opt for a wire crate. These crates are strong, durable, easy to assemble (most just fold out), and easy to store. These crates are open and airy, making it easier for the dog to get used to them. Dividers can also be used in wire crates, which, as detailed in the next section, can be important for house breaking.
Housebreaking Using a Crate
Every dog owner agrees that one of the most difficult parts of adding a new puppy to the family is the process of housebreaking. Crating puppies helps with this. Dogs tend not to soil the area where they sleep. If crated, puppies can't sneak off to do their business, and they will wait till they are let out of the crate to go to the bathroom.
A dog owner should chose a crate that the full grown dog can fit in comfortably, but the crate will be too big for a puppy. If there is too much space in the crate, the dog may go to the bathroom in one end, and sleep at the other. If a divider is used to give the puppy just enough space to turn around, then the dog will learn the crate is not the place to relieve itself. A divider for crate training a puppy is essential.
Protecting the House
Most people live a lifestyle which prevents them from being with their dog throughout the day. Other than housebreaking, the next biggest problem with puppies or untrained adult dogs is that they destroy the house. If a dog is crated, it can't do this, and will be forced to learn to remain calm until its owner returns.
Introducing a Dog to a Crate
The crate should be left out with the doors open, when the owner is home, so that the dog can go in and out of the crate as it pleases. If possible, the owner should get in the crate to show the dog that it is safe. The crate should be made comfortable, with a soft bed, and some favorite toys of the dog. The crate should never be used as punishment, as negative reinforcement will prevent the dog from wanting to get into the crate.
Once a dog is properly crate trained, it can be placed there for the night or while the owner is out. It will be safe, not destroying things, or leaving a mess to clean up. If dogs are crate trained properly, the crate will become a private space they enjoy going to, and not a place for punishment.
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