It’s “Crate” to be Trained

Proper Crate Training is Beneficial When Done Correctly

WRITTEN BY: LIZA MARTIN, Contributing Writer

Destroyed plush toys. gnawed blankets. chewed furniture. fear, anxiety, stress.

Sam Parker and her fiancé James Montgomery of West Ashley were unsure how to help their rescue dog Sawyer, a six-year-old lab mix, so they bought a crate for their 60-pound furry friend that they have had for nine months.

“He has some destructive tendencies and a bit of separation disorder. The crate definitely helps,” Parker said, before adding that Sawyer’s destructive habits may have been linked to the fact he’s a rescue animal and the couple wasn’t sure how or if he had been trained.

Sawyer could destroy anything inside his crate — even the crate itself. Parker and Montgomery realized quickly something needed to change. The couple removed all bedding and other distractions except a solid toy.

“Sawyer loves (his crate) now because I put a Kong toy in there, so he thinks it’s a treat to go in,” she explained. “Then it becomes his safe space.”

Jillian Lungrin, a 10-year professional certified trainer and owner of Canine Coastal Academy stated that, “A dog is a responsibility, and should be cared for and maintained. All dogs should be crate trained.”

In addition to being a safe and secure space for your dog, their crate will assist with stress, travel, sickness, emergencies, and messes.

There are various approaches, options, and opinions as to how to properly crate train within the training field.

Certified trainer Lungrin suggests a toy, food, or bedding can be beneficial in creating a safe, comfortable haven for your dog, and should never be used as a punishment. She also recommended the dog have access to proper exercise, exploring the outdoors, and any other outlet that gives them a sense of purpose.

“Whatever the dog needs to be comfortable will help them better with crate training,” Lungrin said. “It all comes down to responsibility…and knowing your dog.”

However, Samantha Ashby, a professional and national canine certified trainer with Fathom K9, suggests omitting anything from the crate such as toys, bedding, or other objects that could potentially harm your dog.

Ashby suggests beginning training immediately after you bring home your new addition. She suggests not leaving a puppy in its crate for more than a few hours at first.

“It must be a safe space emotionally but also physically,” the 10-year trainer said. Ashby explained for some dogs — especially ones that enjoy chewing on objects or bedding — these seemingly benign additions can cause choking or if ingested, digestive issues, some that can be life-threatening or even deadly.

“Your animal should only be able to stand, sit, and turn around”

The crate should only be used for security, she explained, reiterating that it should never be used as punishment. “To be comfortable in its appropriate-sized crate, your animal should only be able to stand, sit, and turn around to avoid potential messes.” Ashby added.

Ashby says “you’ve got to know your dog” so you can acknowledge when it can be safely free of its crate, especially at night and typically when the dog is fully potty trained.

“It’s all about patience,” Ashby said. “And consistency, and putting in the time. It’s worth it for you and your dog.”

If you or any dog owner have questions or issues regarding safe, secure, and comfortable crate training, contact a local and certified professional trainer. ■