To crate train or not to crate train, that is one of the many questions pet parents face when they bring home a new puppy. While you may be feeling guilty about putting that sweet little puppy (and those big brown eyes!) in a crate for the night or while you are at work, what you really need to think about is what could happen if you didn't.
A puppy left to her own devices operates much like a two-year-old child. Everything that could possibly be chewed on or swallowed, will be. Every nook and cranny will be investigated. And house training becomes a free-for-all. Puppies left free to roam in the house can get into all sorts of trouble; including chewing power cords, falling off balconies and eating things they shouldn't.
It's important that the crate is not seen as punishment, but rather a secure, comfortable den-like environment that keeps your puppy safe from harm (and encourages better bathroom habits). As your puppy matures into adulthood, you will be able to allow longer periods of time out of the crate when you're not home. Eventually, you may even find that your dog doesn't need to be in her crate once she is a mature responsible adult.
Fetch Volume 6 2010/2011
