Keep in mind that dogs are den animals, genetically programed thousands of years ago to seek safety from attack from above or behind. The crate, then, offers the same protection. The crate serves so many purposes .... as a housetraining tool (dogs do not soil their "dens") … as a place to get him out of your hair (or your company's hair) … and a place to get YOU out of HIS hair. The success of crate use depends entirely on how you introduce your dog to it.

 Do not ever use it as punishment!  When you bring it home, let the dog look, sniff, investigate or ignore it. Make a comfy bed for the crate … a cotton blanket, a sheet or beach towel wrapped around a foam rubber pad, etc. Leave the door standing open. Don't be discouraged if the dog doesn't immediately go in … it might take a day or two. Try putting a treat inside, or his favorite toy.When he does go in DO NOT sneak up and lock him in. Let him take a nap! In time, you'll notice that he voluntarily naps in his crate. It's at this time you can close the door … tell him he's a good boy, etc.

When you want him locked in the crate, BE FAIR. Put him outside long enough to eliminate (and be sure he does!). Then he can be told "crate," … and he's on his way to being crate trained! Most important! Select a crate for the size your dog is, or will be, if he is now a puppy. He should be able to stand comfortably, turn around, and lie flat on his side.

Remember, though … the crate is a tool, not a way of life. Your dog's favorite place is with you. If you chose a wire crate instead of the airline crate, con-sider covering it (not the front, of course!), especially if you place the crate where there is a draft. In summer keep the crate out of the sun, and make sure there is plenty of air circulation.

"HAVE PET – WILL TRAVEL"

The crate also shines here! A crated dog (in your car) won't lick windows, chew upholstery, bite the man in the blue suit who just pulled you over, or jump around causing accidents. Windows can safely be rolled down. In the case of an accident (even a minor one where only a door springs open), a crated dog can't escape to be lost or killed on the highway. Anyone coming to your aid can easily remove the dog in his crate to be put somewhere safe.