Is #Crate/#Cage #Training a Good Idea for #Dogs?

I don't know about you, but I love my cage

  Each week, Dr. Patrick Tate, chief of the veterinary staff and a general practitioner at Webster Groves Animal Hospital, answers reader questions about pets.

Question: We have a new dog and were wondering if crate training is a good idea? We have never used a crate with our other dogs, but the rescue group where we adopted our new dog highly recommends them. 

Answer: I highly recommend crate training to all of my clients, whether they are getting a puppy or an older dog.

COMMENT: ME, TOO.  IF YOU THINK #CRATE OR #CAGE IS CRUEL, JUST GET OVER IT.

 I have personally used crate training for every one of my own dogs (and there have been many).

COMMENT: AMEN TO THAT. 

Often, new pet owners think that confining their dog to a crate is somehow cruel or harmful, but that is not true if a crate is used appropriately. Dogs are “den” animals and instinctively enjoy having their own private space where they can “get away from it all.” Once they are accustomed to their crate, many dogs will voluntarily sleep or rest in it throughout their lifetime. 

Here are the benefits of using a crate with your dog:

      Crate training is one of the fastest and most effective ways to housetrain your dog. A dog does not like to be near its own waste, so will make an effort to avoid eliminating in the crate. 

      COMMENT:  WITH A CAGE, HOUSEBREAKING HAPPENS QUICKLY AND WITH FEW MISTAKES!!!

      Dogs (hopefully) will learn to potty outside if taken directly there from the crate. Note: If the crate is too large, the dog will be tempted to use one end for a bathroom.

      The crate serves as a safe environment for your dog when you are away from home, too busy to supervise carefully or asleep. Younger dogs (and even some older) should not be trusted to roam free in the house, especially while housetraining.

      COMMENT:  ANOTHER AMEN.  WORKED WITH GIZMO!!

      Dogs can get into all kinds of trouble when left alone–chewing electrical cords and furniture, swallowing socks and toys, invading the trash or pantry, chasing the cat or other pets, etc. 

      It is easier to travel with a crate-trained dog. Crates are a safe way to transport your pet in a car or plane, and hotels usually require a crate for canine guests.

•  Avoid using the crate as place of punishment.

•  Do not let children, adults or other pets taunt a dog while he is crated.

        “All of the good things that have come to me have come through my dog.”   Dog owner overheard in New York's Central Park