Should You Crate Train A Puppy?

Is crate training cruel?

Crate training can be a valuable tool for many puppy owners if you train your puppy to have great associations with the crate. Here are some reasons to consider crate training:

Toilet training: Crate training can be highly effective for toilet training a puppy. Dogs naturally avoid soiling their bed, so a crate can help you establish a routine for taking your puppy outside to toilet. Be aware that a puppy's bladder is very small and being in a crate won't stop them toileting if they really need to. If they are forced to toilet in their sleeping area will become less taboo and more acceptable to the pup and may become a habit.
Safety: Crates provide a safe and secure environment for your puppy when you can't directly supervise them. Puppies come pre-programmed to chew, just like babies put things in their mouths. It can prevent them from getting into dangerous situations or chewing on things they shouldn't, such as wires.
Travel and Vet Visits: Crate training can make travel and vet visits less stressful for both you and your puppy, as they are already accustomed to being in a crate.
Comfort and Security: Many dogs come to view their crate as a safe and comfortable space, like a den. It can be a place of security and comfort for them. I had a dog, Holly, who I'd never crate-trained. Her favourite place in the lounge was the cwtch to the left of the inglenook fireplace, behind the telly. When I moved to the US, Holly had to be crated to travel. I bought a large wooden crate and it happened to fit perfectly in her favourite cwtch. She took to it immediately, she loved it. She had the crate for years, and it was her favourite go-to place.
Behaviour Management: It can help manage problem behaviours like excessive chewing or separation anxiety. Puppies are less likely to engage in destructive behaviour when crated.

However, crate training should be done with care and attention to your puppy's needs:

Size of Crate: The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. You could also consider a puppy pen which would have areas for sleeping, eating and playing.
Gradual Introduction: Introduce the crate gradually, making it a positive experience with treats and toys. Leave treats in the crate so that your pup is rewarding itself for going into the crate. Try closing the door to the crate, with your pup on the outside, and rain down treats into the crate so that your pup is excited to go into the crate. Avoid using the crate for punishment at all costs.
Limit Time in the Crate: Puppies should not spend too much time in a crate, as they need social interaction and exercise. A general guideline is that a puppy can hold their bladder for as many hours as their age in months plus one (e.g., a 3-month-old puppy can hold it for about 4 hours).
Supervision: When you're home, it's essential to supervise your puppy and let them out of the crate for play and training.
Never Use as Punishment: The crate should never be used as a form of punishment. It should always be a positive and safe space for your puppy.
Consistency: Consistency in the crate training routine is key to success.

Keep in mind that not all dogs respond well to crate training, and some may have negative associations with it. If your puppy is particularly resistant or anxious about being crated, it may be best to explore alternative training and confinement methods. It's also a good idea to consult with a professional dog trainer for guidance on crate training or other training techniques based on your specific puppy's needs and behaviour.

Categories: : Puppy Training Tips