Crates for Dogs: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

Most dog owners wonder if it’s ok to crate their dog. There is this ongoing debate about whether you should or shouldn’t do it, and there are so many mixed opinions. Some people think it’s harsh, but the thing is if you do it the right way, it can actually do more good for your pup than harm it.

Enclosures not only keep dogs out of trouble, but they also give them their own space where they can feel safe and just chill. It’s all about how you use it. Plus, there is a wide range of crates for dogs, so it’s really easy to find one that suits your dog the best. 

Should You Crate Your Dog?

Crating is getting a bad reputation for no reason, really. As long as you’re doing it the right way, there’s nothing wrong with it. Because crating is not about locking your pup up, it’s more about establishing a structured routine and giving them their own little space. Think of it as a bedroom for your dog. 

It helps them stay calm when you’re not at home, and dogs start using it as a place where they can take a nap in peace and quiet. Which brings us to the next question: Is it okay to crate a dog all night? As long as your dog is used to it and feels comfortable in the crate, there is no reason why you shouldn’t do it. Most dogs sleep throughout the night anyway. 

So, if they had their usual routine, plenty of exercise and potty before bed, they’ll settle right in. It’s not like they are just lying there bored. This is another reason why you should get crates for dogs and let them have their own little safe space where they will feel at home. It’s about making them feel safe and not like they’re being punished. 

Why Are Dog Crates a Good Idea?

Provide a Safe and Cosy Place

The dog crates should feel like their own little hideaway instead of a way to punish them. Never use the crate to punish your dog. Make it as comfortable as possible so they can use it as their go-to spot when things get noisy. Put a soft blanket, their favourite toy or a dog bed inside the crate so it feels like their bedroom. As long as they’re not stuck there the whole day, the crate will feel like a little cosy corner for your canine friend. 

Aid in Potty Training

Many dog owners don’t know that crating your dog can actually help with potty training. Here is how that works. Dogs usually don’t like to pee where they sleep, so it really teaches them to hold it. If you take your dog out first thing in the morning, it quickly learns where the bathroom spot is. 

But you should be consistent with it until it becomes their habit. Once they have established their routine, they know where to go and where not to go, and the crate helps you keep track. In fact, crates can be a lifesaver in those early puppy months. 

Discourage Destructive Habits 

If your pup has a tendency to bite and chew on everything they can get, a puppy crate can be of immense help. Just crate them for those times of the day when you’re not home, not as a form to punish them but to keep them out of trouble and potentially hazardous situations. It gives you peace of mind knowing that your pup stays safe while you’re gone. Plus, it actually helps them learn what they can and can’t chew. 

Useful for Travel or Emergencies

If you need to go on a road trip, you can get a portable dog crate. These are super comfy for long rides. Keeping your dog in a crate while travelling is much safer, as they will not be sliding around or jumping everywhere in the car. They can just curl up and sleep the whole ride. 

It makes travel for your dog much more comfortable. And in case of emergency, if you need to evacuate immediately, crates are a lifesaver. Just put your pup inside, and it’s so much easier to carry it around and take it with you wherever you need to go. 

Help Establish Routine and Structure

Dogs need a routine. They need to get used to bedtime, mealtime and naptime. So crating your dog teaches them to learn when it’s crate time and they can just walk in on their own whenever they need space from the noise in the house. It gives them a sense of structure, which makes them feel secure. 

Why Crate Size Matters

You don’t want your dog to feel cramped in the crate. It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably, but not so big that it feels like a mansion. It’s all about that sweet spot where they feel cosy and relaxed, not lost or squished.