By: Lori Verni
Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, a crate can be an invaluable tool for training. Inherently den animals, most dogs enjoy the security of their own space, and when used correctly (never for punishment), the crate can help dramatically with issues such as housebreaking, chewing, and more. It’s not intended to be used as a "jail cell", but rather as a safe place for when you cannot supervise.
Dogs are generally clean animals who instinctively choose separate areas for eating, sleeping, and eliminating. A dog who stays in his crate for periods of time learns to "hold it" because he doesn’t want to soil his living space. This is a mandatory part of becoming reliably house trained. In addition to improving your pet’s muscle control, this affords you the opportunity to praise your dog for eliminating outdoors when you walk him. Your rugs will stay nicer too! (For more info specifically about crate training and housebreaking, click here.)
Supervision is one of the main keys to preventing or solving all dog problems.
For example, sometimes dogs are left in the kitchen or outdoors when owners are unavailable. But if your dog chews the kitchen chair legs, or destroys bushes and barks all day, those chances to teach your pet right from wrong have been lost. By using the crate, you can prevent bad habits from developing. Then, when you are supervising, you can train your dog for the good behaviors.
Even if you’re usually home, the crate is still very useful. After all, if you had a 10 month old baby and were going in the shower, you wouldn’t just leave the baby loose to get into mischief! The same applies to your dog. It is for your pet’s safety, the safety of your belongings, and your own peace of mind.
It is inappropriate to use the crate to banish your dog from visitors or if you’re simply feeling lazy. When you are at home, your pet should be interacting with you. With the use of a crate, diligent supervision, obedience training, love and attention, your dog can be a trustworthy family member!
