Pros and Cons of Crate Training

Many people have strong feelings about crate training a puppy. Some insist that it is an efficient and effective means of helping your new furry friend learn how to behave and feel comfortable in your home. Others argue that crate training is unnecessary or even cruel. While the decision of whether to employ this method of training your dog is ultimately up to you, balancing out the pros and cons of this method can help you make an informed decision that will suit your lifestyle and your pooch’s temperament.

Pros of Crate Training

Dog lovers may argue whether crate training is a good idea, but it remains popular across the United States. The many benefits of the practice include the following:

Provides a Dog with Their Own Space

Like most people, dogs enjoy having a space they can call their own. A crate can provide a place of refuge if a lot is happening in the house, if they are feeling anxious, or if they would like some downtime. Proper use of a kennel or crate can be the most effective means of giving your pup its own space.

Potty Training

Puppies do not enjoy relieving themselves where they sleep. When combined with an effective potty training schedule, crating your dog can help speed up the housebreaking process. A crate can help your dog learn the right time and place to go to the bathroom more efficiently. However, you must be sure to let your puppy out regularly, or accidents will still happen.

Destruction Reduction

One of the most frustrating aspects of bringing a new puppy into your home is the prospect of having your most prized items destroyed. Keeping your dog in a crate when you can’t keep your eye on them will save you a lot of stress and money.

Safety

When left to their own devices, puppies can harm more than just your possessions. They may be apt to break into your cleaning cupboard and ingest dangerous chemicals. Even that chocolate bar you left on the coffee table can harm your pooch. Crating your pup when you are away can keep them safe from harm.

Helps with Boarding, Grooming, and Vet Visits

Taking your dog to receive the services of pet professionals, such as groomers or kennels, usually requires your dog to spend some time in a crate. If your dog needs a surgical procedure, they might need to spend the night in a crate. If they are not accustomed to this, they might experience unnecessary psychological trauma.

Cons of Crate Training

Even those in favor of crate training should understand that the practice has some downsides. These include:

Crating for Too Long Is Dangerous

If you become too reliant on crating your dog, you might end up leaving them in there for too long. The fact that your dog is physically capable of being in a crate for long periods does not mean it is good for them. A crate should be a tool to help your dog rather than a surrogate dogsitter.

Can Create or Worsen Anxiety

Some dogs feel anxious when their owners leave them in a crate. If your dog already has separation anxiety, crate training might worsen their condition. Dogs can harm themselves when they are extremely anxious. Be sure to keep your pup’s health and preferences in mind throughout your crate-training journey.

Can Cause Trouble if Used as Punishment

Locking your dog in a crate to punish them for “bad” behavior can have negative long-term consequences. Dogs who experience punishment tend to develop greater anxiety, stress, and fear throughout their lives. You should never use a crate as punishment.

Collars or Harnesses Can Catch on the Crate

If you place your dog in a crate with a collar or harness, they might end up stuck if the collar hooks onto part of the frame. As they struggle to get free, they might choke or otherwise harm themselves. Always remove your dog’s harness or collar before putting them in their crate.

Contact Walk! ATX for Assistance with Your Furry Friend

Whether or not you decide to crate train your dog, you may find that you cannot always give them the exercise or fresh air they need. The pet-loving team at Walk! ATX is happy to get out and be active with your pup. Our Austin-based professionals offer a wide variety of pet care services to suit your needs. Call us at (512) 655-9557 or contact us online to learn more about how we can customize a routine for your dog.