There are several reasons why pet parents decide to kennel or crate train their dogs. Three of the most popular reasons are: to assist in housebreaking, to curb behavior problems, and to accustom the dog to safe travel. Each of these has its merit and each may come into play as your dog grows older.
Dog kennels or crates capitalize on your dog’s instincts and helps them to be better members of the family. Dogs take after their wolf predecessors and are den-dwelling animals. The need to have a den is a powerful instinct and if your dog is not given a space of their own, they will often find a spot in which to claim on their own, and perhaps not a space that you would like them to have!
A Dog Kennel As A Housebreaking Tool
Usually, housebreaking is one of the top priorities for new puppy parents. Using the dog’s instinct to avoid soiling where he sleeps is pivotal in the concept of using a kennel to housetrain. Putting your puppy in the kennel for short periods, rewarding him for remaining in the kennel, and taking him outdoors frequently to use the outdoor facilities are ways to more quickly house-train your dog.
This method works quite well for most dogs, however, there are a few exceptions. When a dog comes from a puppy mill or another circumstance involving unclean conditions, it may have suppressed this instinct. Dogs that have been kept in small places without the opportunity to avoid sleeping or eating near their waste are harder to kennel train. These animals may also resist kennels at the onset. For animals who resist kenneling, it is critical to create a positive association with the kennel.
Dog Kennels Used To Curb Behavior Problems
Dogs are intelligent, social animals and naturally curious. These three combined can create havoc for a dog left alone in a house with no one to interact with! It is important to give your dog something to do when leaving him, otherwise, he may get into mischief. Some dogs experience anxiety when their owners leave, and much as small children exhibiting separation anxiety can become very distressed. Just as a bored dog can be troublesome left in the house, so can a distressed dog. Using a dog kennel as a place for your dog to spend time can reduce chewing, soiling in the house, barking, and other destructive behavior.
Safe Travel In A Dog Kennel
If your family is a jet-setting one, you have a few options – take Fido with you or leave him with a dog sitter or a kennel. More and more families are bringing their dogs along on trips and vacations. When your dog is in a new environment, having their den (crate/kennel) along can help them to relax and enjoy themselves with a familiar place to which to retire. Having your dog kennel trained before taking trips makes the trip a more smooth experience for everyone involved.