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Crate Training

© Pat Williams

I wish I had a nickel for every time I've heard someone say, "I'd never put my dog in a crate!" or "It's cruel, it's like a prison!", because I'd be a very rich person.

But I am a much happier person every time I guide a non-believer into the light. Because the truth is that a crate is both a dog's and his owner's best friend when it comes to training. You would never think of leaving a baby unattended to wander around the house while you cook dinner, change the laundry or attend to personal needs so why would you allow a puppy?

Far too many well-meaning owners find themselves mistreating, punishing or disposing of a potentially good pet because they failed to understand common puppy behavior. These actions could have been avoided with the proper use of a crate.

Dog crates have been used by show handlers, obedience trainers, breeders, groomers, and veterinarians with great success for a very long time. A good crate offers security, safety, travel protection, housebreaking assistance and in general, control over the animal's activities.

Crates can be made of metal, plastic, fiberglass, and even wicker (I recommend the metal because they can't be chewed and, with care, they last forever. They should have a top and a door with a latch, and a floor pan that you can slide out for cleaning, and are made in a variety of sizes. The crate should be high enough to allow your dog to sit up without touching the top, turn around easily and stretch out when he lies down. The size should be calculated for an adult dog, not the puppy. Naturally, if you are buying a large breed such as a Mastiff or St. Barnard the crate will be large so you will need to buy a divider to shorten the size of the crate when housebreaking a puppy. This can be moved as the dog grows, and then removed when no longer needed.

Inside the crate you will need a blanket or rug. I like to use bath mats with a rubber bottom. They can be cut to fit the floor pan without fraying and are easily washed if soiled. Because I keep two or three ready for each crate, I buy them from an outlet store, and what a great excuse to redecorate the bathroom. You will also need a small water bucket with a handle that you can clip to the crate wall to prevent spilling. The bucket should be wide enough for your dog to reach the bottom without getting stuck. Stainless steel is the best, it prevents your puppy from chewing, and can be placed in the dishwasher. Lastly, never forget to leave a chew toy. It's like sending hubby to the bathroom without a newspaper.

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