Dog Crate Training. Why You Shouldn’t Stop Using a Crate.
Dog crate training is agreeably the easiest way to potty train a puppy, but for some reason owners are in a rush to “phase out” using a crate. There are many benefits to keeping your dog’s crate a part of their lives, but there are also many misconceptions about dog crate training.
Your dog’s crate should never be a negative place. It is not a place to punish or put a dog into “time out.” Simultaneously, dog crate training is not taking away freedom from your dog when used properly. Dogs are den dwelling animals and by providing them with a quiet place that is their own, they will feel secure and safe.
New Environments
Dog crate training is healthy for all dogs, not just for potty training. Any time you bring a dog into a new place using a crate lets them learn about the environment with their noses. This works for bringing a new dog home, traveling with your current dog or when you move into a new home.
Guests
Friends and family coming over is another great time for dog crate training. Maybe your guest does not like dogs or is fearful of them; maybe your guest loves your dog, but gets them so excited they practice unwanted behaviors, like jumping or barking. People coming over is exciting for everyone, especially your dog who picks up on the bump in energy throughout the house. Many people don’t know how to appropriately meet a dog, so having them crated until the energy levels come down helps them to relax and the experience is more enjoyable for all.
Travel
The safest way to travel with your dog is by car. Crating them in the car will keep them from pacing, damaging car interior and distracting you while driving.
Vet, Groomer and Daycare Stays
Many professional dog businesses will crate your dog at some point when you leave them for the day or overnight. If they are use to being crated this cuts down on stress while there.
Injuries
If your dog gets injured and they get prescribed bed-rest, the crate will be your best friend. Many dogs will continue to run around when injured and can cause further damage, but if they are comfortable in their crate they will heal faster.
“Freedom”
This is a big misconception when it comes to dog crate training. When you are alone at home you can watch tv, read a book or find another way to pass the time. What can your dog do when he is left home? Most dogs left alone will pace, bark out the window or find something to chew or eat (rarely the bone you left out for them) or even go to the bathroom inside. If your dog does eat something they shouldn’t then you may be in for expensive surgery and right back to prescribed bed-rest. Dog crate training is not about a lack of freedom it is about giving your dog too much responsibility.
If you have phased out your dog’s crate you can always reintroduce it. Many unwanted behaviors (barking, jumping, fear biting, destructive chewing) can be curbed by dog crate training, but why wait till there is a problem? It’s human nature to be reactive to a problem, but being preventative is the key to having a happy, healthy pup.