To crate or not to crate, that is the question. Although you may initially feel bad for crating your furry friend, consider the following when deciding whether or not to crate train.

Secure Shelter

Having a crate provides your furry friend with their own personal space in your home. This can be a place where they relax, sleep or go to when they are distressed, such as during a thunderstorm. 

House Training

Using a crate can help with house training for puppies. Dogs do not like a soiled sleeping space, so a crate teaches them to strengthen their bladder and bowel muscles, resulting in less accidents.

Social Interaction

A crate prevents dogs from engaging with other pups or humans. Especially since dogs are social animals, this could be distressing. If deciding to crate, make sure they are only kept in the crate when necessary. When not in the crate, provide your pooch with plenty of opportunities for interaction, exercise and mental stimulation.

Travel 

Travelling can become an easier process with the help of a crate. Whether a long car ride or a trip to the vet, a crate will provide a comfortable area for your pooch to stay in, without distracting the driver. For air travel, crates are required for pets to be contained, so training them beforehand will make it a smooth flight.

Size and Location

Providing a comfortable environment for your dog to stay in is of the utmost importance when deciding to crate. Make sure your pooch is able to stand up and the crate is big enough for them to move around. When choosing a location to place the crate, put it in an area that is well-ventilated and away from any potentially hazardous objects.

Emergency Preparedness

Although this may be a rare occasion, you never know when you might need to move your furry friend in an emergency. Dogs that are crate trained will be able to quickly get in their crate for a smooth evacuation. Additionally, keeping your pooch in a crate during a difficult situation reduces the chance of them getting injured or lost.

Safety

When you can’t always keep an eye on your pooch, a crate can help keep them safe. When training a puppy or a new dog to the house, you should only crate until you can trust them not to destroy the house. After that, your pup should be able to roam the house freely without getting into trouble or danger.

Sources:

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-crate-training-is-great-for-your-dog/

https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/crate-training-101 

https://www.petcurean.com/blog/7-reasons-crate-train-dog/ 

https://www.paws.org/resources/the-benefits-of-crate-training/ 

https://animalso.com/crate-training-pros-and-cons/

https://pethelpful.com/dogs/The-disadvantages-and-some-benefits-of-crate-training-a-dogthings-dog-owners-should-consider