Should You Crate Your Dog?
While it may seem counterintuitive, giving a dog a crate isn't a form of punishment; crate training can actually help your dog build confidence and trust. Just like you value your bedroom as a peaceful retreat, the crate can also be a restful place for them.
When done correctly, the crate becomes the place where your dog returns to in times of stress on their own accord, as well as a tool you can use to keep them safe and calm when you’re not around.
Crating can be a valuable training tool for many dogs, including puppies, elderly dogs, and those with separation anxiety and trouble regulating their energy levels. Some instances where crating can be beneficial are:
Puppies who are still being housebroken
Older dogs or those with arthritis who need to rest regularly
Injured dogs who need bed rest
Sick dogs who need to be quarantined
Anxious dogs who dislike being left alone
Dogs with destructive habits
Dogs who are easily overstimulated and need space to wind down
Temporary stays in a boarding facility or hotel
Many experts recommend crate training all dogs, even if you don’t plan to use one regularly. That way, if an instance occurs where you need it (like an injury or significant change in environment), it will be less stressful for them to adjust.
How Much is Too Much Crate Time?
There’s not going to be a perfect formula or timeline that will work for all dogs; however, we don’t recommend leaving any dog alone (crated or otherwise) for more than 6 hours. With the exception of overnight, as long as you’re in earshot.
How long your dog can be safe and happy in their crate will depend on their age, temperament, overall health, and the size of the crate. Puppies, elderly dogs, and those with medical issues will not be able to stay in a crate as long as healthy adults. They’ll need more frequent breaks to relieve themselves and stretch their legs.
Start off with shorter stretches of time in the crate to see how your dog adapts, and then increase the time slowly until you find a range of time that you’re both comfortable with. Keep an eye out for signs of stress during this time, like paw chewing, excessive barking, or bald patches of fur. If you ever find that your dog is injuring itself or having accidents in the crate, reduce or discontinue crating and speak with a trainer.
What Can I Use Instead of a Dog Crate?
If your dog doesn’t like being confined to a crate, but still needs to be secured safely, there are some other options you could consider. There are larger exercise pens that can be set up indoors or outdoors. This could allow you to section off part of a room or the yard and create a safe space that would function the same as a crate.
If you have the space available in your home, you could also create a “dog room.” Using a large closet or unused guest room, put everything your dog needs in one place. Make sure they know that this space is just for them and is always open if they need a quiet place to retreat to. You could even install a dog-door for extra privacy.
This can be especially helpful for socially anxious dogs who may become uncomfortable around visitors or puppies who need more breaks and rest.
What Is Caged Dog Syndrome?
Caged Dog Syndrome (also called Kennel Syndrome) can happen when dogs are left in kennels, crates, or other confined spaces for too long or too regularly. Dogs who spend too much time in a crate can develop symptoms of stress, aggression, depression, poor socialization, as well as physical health problems.
This is why it’s important to start slow, crating for short periods of time that gradually get longer. Keep your dog’s comfort in mind, and work with positive crate training methods. If you’ve never crate-trained a dog before, we recommend Fear Free’s guide.
What If My Dog Hates Being Crated?
It’s possible that your dog just may not take well to being crated or even having their own room in the house. Some breeds require more exercise to stay healthy, and some dogs want to be able to keep an eye on the entirety of “their house”. If your dog is unhappy with any amount of time in a crate, you could get professional help.
If you need to make the crate work, for your health or theirs, try to find a local dog trainer who specializes in crate training. They can help you create the perfect oasis and teach your dog how to feel safe there.
If you’re attempting to crate train before a vacation or other long trip, you may instead want to look into in-home professional pet sitting. Overnight pet sitters can give both you and your dog peace of mind while you’re away. If you’re in the San Francisco area, we encourage you to reach out to us at G&G Pets. Our sitters keep them safe and sound with or without crate training.
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