Quite often I hear people say that they don't want to use a crate because they feel that it might be cruel. I must say that there are situations where that crate could be a cruel thing to do to your dog. However if done properly it's the most wonderful thing your dog will ever get from you. Let me give you some reasons why using a crate will be good for you and for your dog.
The Greatest Gift You Can Give Your Dog
When I have people tell me that they think it might be cruel I tell them that they're absolutely wrong because a crate can be the greatest gift you can give your dog. It provides that special place where they can go when they want to get away from everything else. You know what I mean, the kids are being noisy and the TVs up to loud for your dog, the crate is a place where it can go to get away from it all.
Den Animals
In case you've forgotten dogs are den animals and the crate becomes your dog's den. Now that may not be the case if you choose the wrong type of crate. I'm talking about the plastic airline type crate, it is the best. On the other hand the wire cages that some people use don't resemble a den at all. In fact if you are sitting inside of one you would say that you felt like you were in jail with all the bars. A good crate is darker and more confined that's the benefit of the plastic type carrier.
Like Tight Places
If you ever noticed most dogs like to get in tight places. You know what I mean under the couch or between that big chair and the wall. They like a place that makes them feel like they're in a den. So when selecting a crate make sure that it's the right size. The crate should be big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around and lay down. It should not be big enough for him to invite his friends over for a party.
Becomes Their Special Place to Go
The crate becomes your dog special place to go when everything is hectic and noisy. Heck in fact I bet you have a place to go in that kind of situation as well. The crate becomes that special place for your dog
Great for Traveling
Crates are great for traveling and they keep your dog safe in the car. In fact if you take your dog on trips with you you'll find that a lot of hotels will even allow your dog in the hotel as long as you use a crate.
Safe Place to Keep Your Dog When You Are Gone
Having a crate for your dog is a safe place to keep your young dog when you're gone. With your dog in the crate your furniture is safe from his destruction and he's not able to swallow anything that he could choke on. Of course as he matures you probably won't need to use a crate anymore because he's gotten past that destructive stage without developing that habit.
Housetraining
Last but not least the crate is the perfect way to house train your dog. The thing that makes it so effective is that your dog learns not to do his business in his crate because that is where he sleeps and you can house train your dog in no time flat using this method.
As you can see there are many good reasons to use a crate so stop thinking of it as a cruel place to keep your dog, instead think of it as the greatest gift you can give your new best friend.

Wayne Booth is owner of Canine Behavior Specialists, http://www.CanineBehaviorSpecialists.com in Nashville, TN where he helps people train their dogs and solve behavior problems.
We now also offer training and solve behavior problems online at http://www.TrainMyDogOnline.com.