Dog Crates

Many dog owners and training experts will agree that a dog crate is a must have for a variety of reasons and will make raising a puppy an overall easier experience.

First and foremost, a crate gives your puppy a "safe" place in which they may retreat when they feel frightened or just plain tired and wish to remain undisturbed. Many smaller dogs like the enclosed feeling and view the crate as their bedroom which offers security and sanctuary and a great place to hide treats! To reinforce this, make it comfortable. Place an old pillow or pet cushion at the bottom with a blanket and maybe some stuffed animals and chew toys.

If a dog's routine is interrupted or unusual activity is taking place around the house; they may prefer being a spectator from behind the door of their crate to being in the middle of everything. For instance Halloween can be trying time for dogs with lots of doorbell excitement followed by small, odd and sometimes scary costumes. Crating your dog will ease their anxiety level and will prevent them from bolting out the door in the middle of all the excitement.

Dog crates can also make the job of housetraining your puppy easier and can prevent destructive behaviors around your home. When leaving your house, or even leaving the puppy unattended in part of the house, lock them in their crate with a few toys. Not only do you not have to worry about your things being ruined, your puppy is much safer than if she were unattended. Puppies will chew at wires, swallow anything they come across and even eat paint of the wall when unsupervised. As your dog matures, she may even be able to be left alone in a part of the house unattended, but should be placed in her crate if home alone.

Using a dog crate will also speed the process of housebreaking your puppy. Confined to a small place, your dog is forced to hold herself for longer, thus strengthening muscles and reinforcing behaviors. Remember that puppies eliminate quite frequently and out of fairness, should not be left in the crate without bathroom breaks for extended periods of time.