Part of raising a healthy dog is providing it with its own sanctuary, and crates are a perfect solution. Both puppies and dogs can be easily trained to enjoy the retreat to their crate. However, allowing your dog to wander through the home unsupervised to investigate, chew, and eliminate is unwise and potentially dangerous. The first step is purchasing a crate. The main thing to remember is to leave enough room for your dog to stand and turn around - even when it is full grown.
Some dogs adapt better to a small room, run or playpen.
Because dogs are social animals, the ideal location for the crate is in a room where your family spends a lot of time, such as the kitchen, den or bedroom. Avoid keeping the crate in an isolated laundry or furnace room. For the crate to remain a positive, enjoyable retreat never use it for punishment. A radio or television can help calm your dog and mask environmental noises that sometimes trigger barking. Training Puppies Introduce your puppy to the crate as early in the day as possible.