I understand why folks are reluctant to do any crate training with their dogs. Dogs are not birds and keeping them in a cage might seem cruel. So, Why would I recommend crate training? I am after all a positive trainer, right? Aren't crates a place to put the dog in jail?

Lets take a minute to look at all the situations where a dog might need to be "crated" or otherwise confined.

The dog that goes to the groomer. Yes, they have drying cages!

The dog that goes to the boarding facility. Hello! Even the cutest little  doggie 'apartments' are crates.Especially to a dog that has never been confined in a strange place before.

The dog that goes to the vet-for neuter/spay/dental cleaning or any other day procedure

(Heaven forbid an emergency)

The dog that goes on vacation with you-yes, pet friendly hotels.

Dogs have been lost or even-YIKES-bitten the housekeeping staff!

Dogs that ride in the car need a crate too. Seatbelts for dogs are great, but  they won't prevent your injured , frightened dog from biting a rescue worker in an accident. It may even slow them down!

Puppies that can't be visually monitored 24/7-if you can do that, please call me for job opportunities!

YES, crate training really is the fastest, most reliable way to potty train a puppy. It is more than humane to use your dogs instinct to NOT soil it's den (crate) it's holistic and natural for most dogs.

All puppies should learn how to be alone in a crate early in life. This does NOT mean leaving puppies in cages 24/7-like many puppy mills and pet shops do, but for brief  (20-30 minutes to start) periods, with food,water and safe chew toys.

Adult dogs can also learn how to enjoy a crate with the help of a certified trainer or behaviorist.

*Dogs with severe seperation anxiety may also need assitance from your vet in conjunction with your trainer/behaviorist.