Crate Training Pros and Cons - House Training

Crate Training Pros and Cons - The debate continues unabated as to whether dogs that train in cages are healthy or harmful.

A "cage" involves placing a pet in a cage, usually plastic or metal the size of a dog, for a period of day or night.

Proponents argue that the cages give the dog a sense of "ownership," a place he can call his own. In this small house inside, the dog feels safe surrounded by smells and familiar objects. Here the dog can get away from scary noises or noisy children.

Those in favor of cage training say toilet training is much easier when combined with the use of a cage. Dogs, they say, will naturally avoid soiling their "den" and "hanging on" until they are released to leave.

Opponents respond that locking the dog in a cage barely large enough to roll around suppresses its natural desire to move. Eliminates the dog's ability to explore his surroundings at will and absorb stimulating sights and smells.

Those against the use of the crate report frequent occurrences of puppies playing with their own waste and simply getting dirtier and dirtier. Stopping the dog, they say, is more for the convenience of the owner than for the welfare of the dog.

As with any discussion of this type, there is no doubt that there are positives and negatives on both sides. Objective studies on the subject are scarce and equally mixed. As long as certain "rules" are observed, there is probably nothing wrong, and perhaps something right, in cage training.

Even advocates agree that excessive caged time is harmful to the dog. Any dog ​​confined to a small space does not do the necessary exercises and may be prevented from defecating longer than usual. Therefore, he kept the payment time to a maximum of two hours.

Opponents fear that caged dogs may be injured by a natural desire to escape or by confusion in the cage. Make sure the collar is not stuck. Check that there are no sharp edges in the crate and that the construction is strong enough to withstand the normal knocks and pushes of dogs on the walls. Most of all, make sure you can't tip over.

Proponents say animals raised in cages will do best when traveling by car, train or plane. They are used to confinement and have a familiar scent environment with them during a time of stress. For owners who need to take their pets on long trips, this view can be of some value.

Reviews suggest that (except when moving permanently) pets are best left at home. In addition to short trips to the supermarket, to the veterinarian or to a neighbor's, animals do better in family territory. But, if you have to transport them, be especially careful when doing so in a well-constructed box. Make sure that no objects can fall inside, not just outside the cage.

While the debate is unlikely to be resolved anytime soon, using common sense is the best way to judge the real effect, good or bad, on your particular pet. Try to leave the door open after a few weeks of training and see if they seek or avoid the box. Let the dog analyze the problem.