Is Crate Training Necessary? 17 Pros & Cons of Crate Training a Dog

In the vast majority of cases, crate training is extremely beneficial. But is it necessary..? Many pup parents questioning the necessity of crate training are at their wit’s end with their puppy whining and barking in the crate. And to that I say, trust the process. If you set out with a desire to have a crate-trained puppy, don’t give up just yet. So to answer the question of whether crate training is necessary… the answer is no. At least according to the dictionary definition. Necessary is defined as; absolutely needed, required. Example: Food is necessary to survive. So under the literal definition, crate training a dog is not necessary. A dog doesn’t need a crate to survive. It is not absolutely needed. BUT! 🚨 Crate training your puppy is highly recommended and extremely beneficial to your pup’s well-being. I believe that each pup parent needs to make decisions that fit their lifestyle, home environment, and their dog. The adage ‘train the dog in front of you’ is timeless wisdom in a world of infinite opinions, information, and ideas. So, let’s break down 17 Pros and Cons of crate training your puppy to help you make an educated decision for yourself. 17 Crate Training Pros and Cons Pretty much all dog topics have pros and cons, and crating your puppy is no different. Here are 17 pros and cons of crate training! PROS of Crate Training Provides a safe space for your dog that is completely their own Massive help for potty training Reduces destruction  Reduces the potential for ingesting dangerous items/foods Greater peace of mind when away from home A valuable skill for boarding, grooming, vet visits, etc. Creates a real barrier when you don’t want your dog to have access to guests Makes travel easier Teaches dog to settle CONS of Crate Training Many people become overreliant on crates and leave dogs for too long Crates can exacerbate anxiety issues Incorrect sizing can cause physical and emotional distress Can make some medical issues worse Incorrect assembly can be dangerous to your dog If not properly ventilated, can be very dangerous If used as a punishment, can create other problem behaviors  Collars and harnesses can get stuck and cause major problems For a more in-depth look at crate training, check out the Crate Training Course taught by Amber Aquart CPDT-KA!