To Crate or Not to Crate?

A lot of people ask me, "should I use a crate for my puppy?". That's actually a really good question. I have always had really good results with my dogs when I use the crate in the house. Let's take a further look into why it works.​First of all, Did you know that all domesticated dogs, regardless of breed, are genetically 99.9% wolf? Knowing that helps us understand them a little better. Dogs in the wild give birth to their puppies in a den and it is where they spend most of their time when they are young. The den keeps them safe and secure. ​One of the major reasons the crate works so well with training is that it replicates "the den". It provides them with a safe space that they can count on to feel safe and secure. The crate should never be used as a place of punishment or when you are angry. You don't ever want them to resent or be scared of it .​When do I use the crate? It is particularly helpful early on in the puppies life when they are learning to house train but I use it throughout the dog's lifetime. It is A dog's natural instinct to keep the area clean where they sleep. We can use that to our benefit! The crate should be big enough for the puppy/ dog to stand up and turn around in and not much bigger. If you have a young puppy that is still growing, make sure to get one that has an adjustable grate inside. That way, you can expand the space as the pup grows.

Using a crate sets your puppy up for success. it keeps them out of harms way when they aren't being supervised and it gives them a sense of security. It teaches them safe boundaries by clearly defining down time and can give you peace of mind that your beloved pup is safe even when you aren't there. One very important thing to remember is that bedding, toys, rawhides, bones, etc. all create potential choking hazards. Make sure that your dogs are always supervised when they have access to any of those things and definitely do not put them into the crate with the dog.. The dogs are just fine in the bare crate. Not only that, but it is a cinch to clean- just simply wipe up any accidents and you are good to go!

Where do you find a good quality crate without spending a fortune? Crates are an investment and a necessary tool needed to raise a happy, healthy dog but, if you're like me, you want the best quality for the lowest price! I always find the best deals from Amazon.com, which is where I buy 99.9% of my pet supplies.