Crate Training Is For The Dogs

Crate training is seen by some people as a mean thing to do to a dog.  But proponents of crate training know there are many good reasons to crate train a dog and if done right, the dog is more than happy with their crate aka home.

Dogs really are territorial animals and need to define their own turf.  They know their territory outside - it's the whole backyard bordered by the fence.  And inside the house their space is their crate.  A crate serves as your dog's den, a refuge when he wants to take a nap away from all the household activity, and a favorite spot to sleep through the night.

A crate can keep a puppy from getting into trouble in other areas of the house when you can't be with him.  It will keep him safe from chewing something he shouldn't while you're in the shower, and keep your carpet safe if he's not reliable with the house training yet.  It's impossible to watch a puppy every second and the crate can assure you everything will be okay so you can take that shower or make that business phone call.

Secondly, a crate makes a good tool in house training endeavors.  The crate should be the right size; just big enough so he can turn around in it comfortably. The puppy will learn to hold it until the proper time because he doesn't want to soil the area where he lives.  Knowing that, make sure you let him out frequently to use the outdoor toilet.  And when you buy the crate, buy the big size he'll need some day and use the partitions to block off part of it until he grows.

Another plus about the crate is it's a safe way to transport your dog when you travel.  You won't have a dog who's all over the place in the car, distracting you from driving or risking being thrown out of the car should there by an accident.   A crate is comforting for an overly excited or nervous dog; it has all the familiar smells of home.

At some point your dog will be more mature and successfully crate trained enough so you can leave the door of the crate open during the day.  That way he can go in and out of his home whenever he wants to.  It's comforting to him to know he has a special place to call his own.

Crate training a dog has several advantages.  It is not meant to keep him prisoner for long periods of time, nor should it be used as a place for punishment.  Instead, use it to help your new dog stay safe, become potty trained, and feel comfortable.