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Jessica Jimenez

SHOULD MY DOG BE CRATE TRAINED?

Updated: Apr 25


sleeping dog in open crate

The Pros and Cons of Crate Training Your Pup

There are mixed emotions when it comes to crate training your dog. Is it cruel and unusual punishment? Or a pleasant necessity? This hot-button topic is even illegal in some countries, notably, Sweden and Finland. But as with most things in life, crate training your pup has pros and cons. If you ever wondered about crate training then keep reading because we are going to look at the pros and cons of crate training your dog. 

 

What is crate training?

Crate training is defined by Wikipedia as “the process of teaching a pet to accept a dog crate or cage as a familiar and safe location” Crate training dogs is a bit controversial. Some people think that it is cruel, while others feel it is necessary. What should really be evaluated is the personality and temperament of the pup and whether crate training can help or potentially harm your dog. You, as the pet parent, ultimately know what is best for your dog. Each dog is different and has his/her own needs..Ultimately you are the best person to decide what is best. You should also be in mind that crate training is not for every dog. 

 

Now let’s look at the benefits and disadvantages of crate training:

 

Pros

 

Some people see crate training as a safe and healthy way to train their dogs. Here are some benefits of crate training:

 

  • They create a protective and relaxing space

  • They can be used for house training

  • They can be used in an emergency

  • They can be used to transport and travel

  • They help a pup adjust to new surroundings

  • They create less territory to try to control/protect

  • They give peace of mind while nobody's home

  • They can calm an over-excited or aggressive pup

  •  

Cons

 

First, let’s look at some potential dangers of using a crate :

1 If a crate is poorly assembled, it can be dangerous.

2. If a crate is not in a ventilated area, it can be very dangerous.

 

Crate training cons are: 

  • They are frequently misused 

  • They restrict movement

  • They can cause loneliness

  • They can exacerbate anxiety

  • They can exacerbate behavioral issues 

  • Owners may get too reliant on them 

 

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day it is up to the pup parents to make informed decisions. Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities and crate training is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Please consider all the options, benefits, and disadvantages before settling on crate training. Learn more about how to crate train your dog from American Kennel Club or check out this step-by-step guide from Chewy.com on how to crate train your dog. 

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