Quote:
Originally Posted by Beest
I had never heard of crating dogs, or cats, until living in the US. yet they all seemed to get house trained just fine.
It strikes me as bizarre and cruel, it's a cultural thing, the people I know with dogs they seem to be OK.
I saw this on one those dog training shows, quite possible the one with the English woman.
Submissive Urination |
I disagree. I can't speak to cats, but
dogs ≠ people
Dogs are den animals and, in general, like confined spaces. See UT's post about his dog burrowing under his pillow.
If you can train your dog without using a kennel, more power to you. I assume you have the leisure of spending every waking moment with your pup.
But a kennel is invaluable in keeping the puppy from making mistakes. If you can't watch the puppy every moment the dog is awake, then keeping it in the kennel (when you can't keep an eye on it) is the more humane thing to do.
I've raised three dogs this way. They've all been happy dogs and the only time they have ever had a mistake in the house is when they've been sick.
OTOH, anything can be abused. Keeping your dog in the kennel when it is unnecessary, is as bad as dumping your kids in front of a tv as a babysitter.