The Crate Controversy: Should I Crate Train My Dog?
Key Takeaways:
Crate training gives dogs a safe, comfortable space of their own.
Supports potty training by preventing indoor accidents.
Helps prevent separation anxiety and builds confidence.
Prepares dogs for vet visits, boarding, and travel.
Should always be introduced with patience and positivity.
Some dog owners feel uncertain or uncomfortable about using a crate. That’s understandable—no one wants to feel like they’re “locking up” their beloved pet.
But when used correctly, crate training is one of the most powerful ways to help your dog feel secure, develop confidence, and thrive—especially during early puppy training and potty training.
Let’s break down what crate training really means, why it works, and how to do it the right way.
What Is Crate Training, Really?
Crate training means teaching your dog to see their crate as a safe, comfortable, and positive space. It’s not about locking your dog away or forcing them to live inside a box. Crate training is about creating a “den” where your dog can retreat when they need a break, feel overwhelmed, or just want to rest in peace.
We all need space sometimes—dogs are no different. Giving your dog a crate is like giving them their own bedroom. It’s not a punishment or a jail cell; it’s a sanctuary. Many dogs actually seek out tight, enclosed spaces when they’re anxious or tired. This goes back to their natural instincts as den animals. When used correctly, a crate taps into those instincts and gives your dog a place they know is theirs.
It’s important to remember: crate training doesn’t mean your dog must live or sleep in the crate. Dogs need exercise, interaction, and freedom. But just like we don’t live in our bedrooms 24/7, we still appreciate having a private place to go. That’s the heart of crate training.
The Benefits of Crate Training
Done well, crate training can transform your dog’s life—and yours. Here are just a few of the key benefits:
1. Safety When You Can’t Supervise
Whether you're out running errands or simply in another room, the crate gives your dog a secure place to be. This is especially important for dogs who are destructive, anxious, or still learning boundaries. Rather than worrying about chewed-up shoes or eaten trash, you know your dog is safe and relaxed.
2. Helps Prevent Separation Anxiety
Crate training helps your dog learn how to be alone without panic. When the crate is introduced as a calm and neutral space, dogs learn they can relax on their own. This autonomy builds confidence and helps prevent the development of separation anxiety.
3. Supports Potty Training
We’ll talk more about this below, but one of the most effective ways to potty train a puppy is to use a crate. Dogs instinctively avoid going to the bathroom where they sleep. With consistency, crate training sets the stage for fast, reliable housebreaking.
4. Builds Confidence and Autonomy
When dogs learn how to self-soothe and take breaks in their crate, they gain a sense of independence. Over time, this trust and confidence builds into a well-adjusted dog who knows how to settle on its own terms.
5. Preparation for Boarding and Vet Visits
At some point, your dog will need to be in a crate: at the vet, during travel, or while boarding. Don’t let that be the first time they’re confined. If your dog already feels comfortable in a crate, those stressful situations become a lot easier for everyone.
6. Predictability and Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. A crate helps create structure in your dog’s daily life. It signals quiet time, sleep time, or a reset moment. This kind of consistency supports better behavior in the long run.
Why the Crate Can Stir Up Feelings
Some dog owners worry that crate training is cruel or unnatural. But denying your dog a safe space of their own is like not giving your child a bedroom.
It’s not about confinement—it’s about comfort. Imagine trying to nap in a wide-open space with no door, no walls, and constant noise. That’s how some dogs feel when they don’t have a crate.
When used appropriately, the crate is not a prison. It’s peace.
To Crate or Not to Crate?
Let’s reframe the question. The real issue isn’t whether you have a crate. It’s how—and when—you use it.
You absolutely should have a crate for your dog. It’s a tool in your dog training toolkit. The better question is: when should I use the crate?
To answer that, ask yourself two things:
Is my dog safe left alone for this amount of time?
Will they chew furniture, eat something harmful, or hurt themselves if unsupervised?Is my dog fully potty trained?
If not, the crate can be your best ally for setting them up for success.
If the answer to either question is “no,” crate training is your friend. It’s not about control—it’s about trust. The crate protects your dog until they’re ready to handle more freedom.
How Crate Training Supports Potty Training
Dogs naturally avoid eliminating where they sleep. That’s why crate training and potty training go hand in hand. By limiting your puppy’s space, you reduce the chance of accidents—and increase the chance they’ll learn where to go.
Keep the crate appropriately sized. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not pace or use one corner as a bathroom.
Take your puppy out immediately after crate time to reinforce the habit. Keep it consistent and positive. If you're struggling with housebreaking or crate timing, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional dog trainer for support—they can help tailor a plan to your pup’s needs.
How to Crate Train the Right Way
Here are some core tips to help your dog love their crate:
Make it positive. Feed meals in the crate, toss treats or toys inside, and use a cheerful tone. Let the crate be a good place.
Don’t reward bad behavior. If your dog barks, whines, or scratches, don’t let them out right away. Otherwise, they’ll learn that fussing gets results.
Keep entries and exits low-key. Don’t act emotional when you leave, or overly excited when you return. Casual is best. This helps prevent anxiety.
Use it for calm—not punishment. You can use the crate as a timeout spot for a dog who doesn’t know how to settle, but never put them in it with an angry tone.
Respect their space. Don’t let children or other pets bother your dog while they’re in the crate. It should be a safe zone where they can fully relax.
If your dog resists the crate, ask for help. Severe crate anxiety or fear is not something to “wait out.” A qualified trainer can help your dog build comfort at their own pace.
Avoid potty pads inside the crate. These send mixed signals during potty training. Also, remove collars or destructible toys to prevent choking or accidents.
Choose the right crate. Wire crates can be dangerous for dogs with anxiety or a history of crate issues. Consider safer, sturdier options for dogs who need extra support.
Final Thoughts: Crate Training with Compassion
Crate training isn’t a magic fix, and it’s not for lazy owners. It’s a thoughtful tool that supports safety, independence, and good behavior—especially during critical stages like puppy training and potty training.
Used correctly, crate training can:
Reduce accidents
Build trust
Promote emotional regulation
Prepare your dog for real-world scenarios like vet visits or travel
And most importantly—it gives your dog a space that’s truly their own.
Not every dog needs to be in a crate all the time. But every dog should have one. It’s their bedroom, their den, their refuge.
And when done right, crate training isn’t controversial at all. It’s just kind, clear, and smart dog training.
If you're unsure where to start, or if your dog struggles with crate training, reach out to a qualified dog trainer. A professional can help make the process smoother and more enjoyable—for both you and your dog.
