Many common behavior problems of older puppies (over 6 months) and adult dogs are caused by separation anxiety, lack of feeling secure when left alone. Crates can be very helpful or very harmful in solving these problems. It all depends on you and how you introduce the crate and how you use it going forward. Crates must be introduced gradually, making every association with the crate as positive and pleasant as possible.  While crates help keep your pet from getting into trouble while unsupervised, they should not replace exercise, training and quality time spent together.

A young puppy (8-16 weeks) should have no problem accepting the crate as his own room, bed, den.  Any complaining is generally caused not directly by the crate, but by his learning to accept controls in a new and unfamiliar environment and wanting to be with the family.

Dog crates have been used by dog owners, breeders, trainers, groomers and veterinarians for a long time.  But many pet owners hate the idea of using a crate fearing it to be unfair or harmful to their new dog friend.  Are dog crates cruel? or kind?