Using Dog Crates for Management

This post will take a closer look at one of the common uses for crates in the home, using crates for management in the homes for puppies and for adult dogs. In the case of puppies and aggressive dogs, crates are almost necessary since they are the most efficient and easily maintained management system. 

Before we can even start talking about the specifics of using crates for management in the home, we first have to address why you’re not already using a crate in your home! Don’t think the dog will like it, or don’t think you’ll like it? Crates don’t have to be gray and blocky or black and wiry just taking up space. Lots of options have been developed recently to fit a variety of aesthetics and make crates functional for humans as well. Crates can be turned into tables or TV stands, or a place to put the dog bed on top of to get off the floor someplace else. Or storage for more dog stuff… or whatever else you might need. Once you find what’s stopping you from adding a crate, you will have an easier time changing your dog's perception for the better as well. We will start out by addressing the use of crates with puppies first.

Ask questions, join the conversation, and post pictures of your crate set up in the Facebook group!

𓃡 𓃩 𓃡 Human End of the Leash 𓃡 𓃩 𓃡

Ask questions, join the conversation, and post pictures of your crate set up in the Facebook group! 𓃡 𓃩 𓃡 Human End of the Leash 𓃡 𓃩 𓃡

PUPPIES

Why use crates for puppies? Crates are the easiest to maintain management system available for potty training, relaxation training, management during high transition times (or meal times), preventing resource guarding, and preventing other problem behaviors.

How to use a crate with your puppy? When using a crate with a puppy it is most important to determine a low activity location, and use the crate in alignment with your puppies natural activity and schedule to begin with. Start in small increments of time that do not stress your puppy by the end, and associate the crate with all kinds of positive things like enrichment, meal times, etc. I personally love to do treat scatters in the blankets in my dog’s crates.

Safety considerations: do not place near curtains, be cautious of including edible stuff including ropes, towels, etc, do not give access to carpets, may need a secondary lock

AGGRESSION

Why use a crate for an aggressive or reactive dog? Crates are one of the most effective and easily accessible management systems for aggressive dogs. Using crates can prevent resource guarding incidents and prevent any practicing of the aggressive behavior.

How to use a crate with an aggressive dog? When using a crate with an aggressive dog it is most important to choose a low activity location where the location will not add more stress. Then, use the crate to help create structure and avoid triggers. Provide plenty of enrichment to help your dog learn how to cope and unwind in the crate

Safety considerations: choose a sturdy enough crate that cannot be escaped from, do not place near curtains or other hanging objects, do not place near cords or other hazards, be cautious of including things like rope toys, towels, blankets, etc, and you may need a secondary lock