Should I Crate Train My Dog?
While veterinarians and behaviorists generally agree that crate training is ideal for both puppies and adult dogs, many pet parents confess they cannot bear the thought of seeing their dogs “locked in a cage”. Our dogs’ wild ancestors spent much of their time in dens. The den was where they would sleep, hide, shelter from the elements, and raise their litters. Crate training simply takes advantage of the natural instincts our dogs still possess as descendants of these early den dwellers.
A crate trained dog will perceive his crate as a safe place to ride out a thunderstorm, take a break from a bustling party, or duck out of reach of a curious but overbearing toddler. Dogs who know they can retreat to their own space are better equipped to cope with anxiety, and therefore less likely to bite. Additionally, crate trained dogs are happier at boarding facilities, which means we pet parents can travel with greater peace of mind. When we decide to bring Fido along for the trip, the crate provides him with instant familiarity and comfort. While the surroundings may be new and strange, crates allow our dogs to feel like they are travelling with their own special room. And the only thing better than discovering the world, is discovering the world with with a dog!
