Learn how to give your dog his own space.
1. House train your dog. Efficient and humane training aids, crates take advantage of the dog's natural tendency to keep its sleeping area clean. However, you should crate your puppy for only as long as it can reasonably control its bladder and bowels.
2. Protect your dog. Crating a dog prevents it from chewing electrical cords or eating poisonous plants, toxic cleaning fluids, or nylon socks (which can tear up your dog's intestines.) These are only a few dangers awaiting new dogs left alone in a home.
3. Protect your property. A crate costs between $25 and $200, depending on its size and where you buy it. That's a bargain compared to the cost of replacing furniture and other belongings your new dog can destroy.
4. Curb and prevent separation anxiety. You love your dog, but you can't spend every minute of every day with him. The crate can help you teach your dog to enjoy spending time alone.
5. Introduce chew toys. A dog engrossed in chewing a toy will stay out of mischief. Give your dog time in his crate with two stuffed chew toys, and he'll become hooked on his crate and stay out of trouble.
6. Give a timeout. A new dog gives you great rewards, but it also can drain you. If your dog becomes excessively excited or starts nipping, use the crate for a brief timeout. Don't do this to punish your dog. (Never use a crate negatively.) Rather, the timeout allows your dog to regain his composure so he can interact appropriately with you.
7. Travel safely. Whether your dog travels by air or car, a crate is one of the best ways to ensure safety. Additionally, when you stay in a hotel, keep your dog in a crate to prevent damage.
8. Provide security. Crates provide your dog with his own quiet place to hang out. This is especially important if you have a busy household and children. To encourage your dog to accept people petting him while inside the crate, praise him and give him tasty rewards on occasion. Also, let children know not to bother your dog while he is inside the crate. That's his quiet time.
