Crate Training Cruel?

I have had a few interesting conversations recently about crate training dogs. One concerned of a lovely little emotional support dog that travels almost everywhere with her person. This dog is totally calm and quiet in all kinds of social situations, can handle loud traffic and long bus rides. However, since this dog has been a near constant companion, she was not trained to be left at home alone as a puppy. Unfortunately she has trouble with separation anxiety now on those rare occasions when she must be left behind. I suggested getting her accustomed to a crate initially when people are home, then for short periods alone, gradually increasing that time. My suggestions were initially met with, while not exactly horror at the suggestion, let’s just say distaste and pessimism.

This reminded me that there are people who feel that crate training is cruel and think of it more as a punishment tool. That is not the idea of using a crate at all, though yes it can be cruel when used for punishment and isolation. Most of us cannot take our pets everywhere with us and must help them to adjust to time at home alone. When properly introduced the crate can become a comfortable den, a safe-haven to return to and to sleep in, and a great way to keep puppies out of trouble when they are not being supervised—much better than a rolled up newspaper!

Once house training is established (and this can take 1-2 years due to puppy chewing behaviors, so be patient!), dogs can transition to a pet bed in a quiet corner or bedroom, or alternatively, the crate can be left out for sleeping and calming for anxious dogs when visitors arrive. Crates can help with separation anxiety and destructive behaviors, often used in combination with safe chew toys or treat dispensers, which work well as a distraction and to re-direct behaviors. And for those pups that can’t stand to say goodbye, keep farewells and greetings calm and not too dramatic. Don't make a big deal of it, set the example for calm behavior.

I’ve even used the large dog crates for kittens until they could be left alone in a single room, gradually enlarging their territory when I felt confident that the litterbox and scratching post training was in place! Leaving a carrier crate out for cats and small dogs with a cozy bed inside is a great way for them to develop a comforting reaction to the crate rather than the panic it can create when it only comes out for travel, trips to the veterinarian, groomer or oh, say, tornado! Using treats and familiar bedding can help to acclimate animals that have not previously been trained to use a crate. Make it a positive experience, don’t close the door on them at first, let them explore until it feels comfortable, this may take days—or months. Only leave them for short periods initially, gradually increasing their time as needed. Crates can be a great place for calming, relaxing and sleeping, but remember that animals are living, breathing, thinking creatures that need mental, physical and social activity and should not be left alone for extended periods of time.

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