I am surprised to find that crating (also known as "kenneling") dogs remains a controversial issue. Opponents of the practice claim that it is cruel and many dog owners feel guilty about doing it. When done properly, it is neither of those things.
Crates are available in an infinite variety of styles and prices, from expensive wood models that double as end tables to plastic travel kennels to collapsible wire or nylon pop-up crates. Each of them has its strong points, but I prefer the wire models for puppies who are still chewing on everything they can get into their mouths.
When you choose a crate for your dog, the most important thing is make sure it is appropriately sized. He should be able to stand, sit, lie down, and turn around comfortably with a bit of room to spare. If your puppy has a lot of growing to do and your budget is limited, consider purchasing a crate (based on his predicted adult size) with a moveable divider panel.
Please avoid making your own barrier, using materials such as cardboard, plywood or flimsy plastic that your puppy can chew up. A sturdy chew-proof barrier will prevent you from becoming frustrated and--more importantly-- it will safeguard your puppy from becoming ill or injured.
Crates are wonderful tools for housebreaking. Most dogs will not soil their sleeping areas if given a choice. However, It is important to remember that puppies can be expected to hold their bladders for only one hour per month of age. And it is never a good idea to ask a dog or any age to remain crated for longer than 8-9 hours at a time.
Until your puppy is completely trustworthy--meaning fully housebroken and chewing only on appropriate items--I recommend crating him whenever he does not have your full attention. It takes only seconds for a curious puppy to get himself into trouble and it is much easier to prevent unwanted behavior than to train the behavior out later. If he protests, give him a Kong stuffed full of delicious treats or another puppy-safe toy to occupy him.
Crating your puppy when he becomes tired will teach him that his kennel is the place to go when it is time to rest. For some, it doesn't take them long to ask to be crated when they get sleepy. A client's German Shepherd Dog began doing this when she was only a few months old.
Puppies--as well as some sensitive adult dogs--can become overstimulated very easily. Allowing your puppy to retire to his crate when things get hectic, allows him a chance to seek out peace and quiet. My sister's five-year-old Sheltie still retreats to his crate at the first sign of chaos.
If your puppy will be professionally groomed or boarded at a kennel while you are on vacation, teaching him to accept being crated will make the experience less stressful for him and your groomer or boarding facility's employees will love you for it. It will also make it easier for him if he becomes ill or injured and needs to spend an extended period at your veterinarian's office.
Your puppy's crate is his safe place to rest, relax, and keep out of trouble. But he also needs plenty of time to run, to play, to interact with his family, and to learn how to behave appropriately. If you work long hours and your puppy isn't ready to be left alone in the house without supervision, consider asking a friend or neighbor to give him a potty break during the day. Or hire a dog-walking service to exercise him while you're away from home.
These days, quite a few people prefer to take their dogs with them almost everywhere. When traveling by car, I recommend crating your puppy in a wire or plastic kennel--or using a specially designed seatbelt harness--to keep your puppy safe. Many automobile accidents are caused by unconfined dogs. Crating your puppy may prevent serious injury in the case of a sudden stop or a collision. And confining your puppy to his crate during long car trips may prevent his getting lost or injured when you stop for gas, food, or other necessities.
When shouldn't your puppy be crated? If you are upset or angry with her for eliminating in the house, chewing up your favorite shoes, or any other misbehavior. Using the crate as punishment will create a negative association in your puppy's mind. Dogs are not capable of connecting wrong-doing with punishment unless they are caught within a couple seconds of the act. Crating your puppy minutes or hours after he's made a mistake might make you feel better, but it will only leave him confused and disliking his crate.
No comments:
Post a Comment