subject: What Is Crating? [print this page] A dog crate is a type of kennel for dogs which is portable and is easily transported around. Its use is to contain the dog for a brief and temporary duration of time so that a specific task can be carried out. It is usually made out of either metal or plastic. Crating refers to keeping the dog in the crate so that they can be trained, usually either in terms of housetraining or houseproofing of the dog.
Although the reason for crating is obvious, the issue of using it remains controversial. One party stands that crating is a training method that leaves the dog defenseless, while the other party stands that this is argument is indeed the solution. Both arguments are valid; however, there are ways to make crating work by taking into account both stands.
First of all, we will need to understand that dogs are social animals. They like being around people, so in order to make crating work, one should only put the dog in the crate amidst the presence of people. This way, they will feel that the dog crate is not a sort of detention that secludes him from the presence of others. In fact, making him feel like that is his territory will let him fulfill his instinct, and it will not make him feel threatened. Your dog should feel welcomed to enter the crate on his own.
The thing about crating is that if not properly used, it will be a form of abuse to the dog. It should be big enough in size so that your dog can stretch, stand, and turn; where it should not restrict too much of movement. Dogs should not be kept in the crate for too long a period either, as it will be detrimental to their physiological and psychological health. If not introduced properly, your dog will take it as a punishment, which would affect his health altogether.
