Crating Dogs While at Work: A Comprehensive Guide

CRATING WHILE AT WORK: YES, WITH CONDITIONS

Crating a dog while you are at work is generally acceptable and can even be beneficial, provided certain conditions are met. For most adult dogs, crating for 4-6 hours is considered appropriate. Puppies, due to their smaller bladders and developmental stage, should be crated for shorter periods, typically 2-4 hours. The primary goal of crating is to offer a safe, secure space for your dog and to prevent destructive behaviors when unsupervised.

A crate can prevent your dog from chewing on furniture, ingesting harmful objects, or having accidents inside the house. It acts as a den, a natural safe haven for canines. However, it is crucial that the dog's physical and mental needs are fully satisfied both before and after the crating period.

CRATE TRAINING ESSENTIALS

The crate should always be perceived as a positive, safe den, never as a place of punishment. This foundational principle is vital for successful crate training. Introducing the crate correctly ensures your dog associates it with comfort and security.

Introduction to the Crate

Begin by introducing your dog to the crate gradually. Place it in a high-traffic area of your home, like the living room, so it becomes a familiar part of their environment. Leave the door open and allow your dog to explore it at their own pace.

Encourage entry with positive reinforcement. Toss treats inside, or place a favorite toy in the crate. Praise your dog enthusiastically when they go near or enter the crate.

Duration of Crate Time

Start with very short periods of crating, even just a few minutes at a time. As your dog becomes more comfortable, slowly increase the duration. This might involve leaving them in the crate for 10-15 minutes while you are in another room, then gradually extending this to an hour, and so on.

Never force your dog into the crate. This can create negative associations and make training much harder. Patience and positive reinforcement are key.

Crate Comfort

Ensure the crate is a comfortable and inviting space. Line it with soft bedding, such as a dog bed or a cozy blanket. A favorite, safe chew toy can also be placed inside to provide comfort and entertainment.

The goal is to make the crate a place your dog willingly retreats to for rest and relaxation. It should feel like their personal sanctuary.

PREPARING FOR CRATING

Proper preparation before crating your dog for the workday is essential for their well-being and to ensure a positive crating experience. This involves addressing their physical and mental needs.

Exercise Before Crating

A long walk or a vigorous play session before crating can significantly help. Expending energy beforehand means your dog will be more likely to rest calmly in their crate. A tired dog is a good crated dog.

This pre-crating exercise helps to prevent restlessness and boredom, which can lead to whining or destructive behavior in the crate. Aim for at least 30-60 minutes of activity, depending on your dog's breed and energy level.

Potty Break Before Crating

Always allow your dog a thorough potty break immediately before placing them in the crate. This minimizes the risk of accidents inside the crate, which can be distressing for the dog and undermine crate training. Ensure they have ample time to relieve themselves completely.

Food and Water Considerations

Generally, it's best not to leave food or excessive water in the crate, especially if your dog will be crated for several hours. This prevents spills and reduces the likelihood of accidents. However, for extended crating periods, a small amount of water in a spill-proof bowl might be acceptable, but careful monitoring is needed.

A good practice is to feed your dog their meal before crating, allowing them time to digest and relieve themselves before being confined.

Mental Stimulation in the Crate

Provide a puzzle toy or a Kong filled with frozen treats to keep your dog mentally stimulated and occupied during the initial period of crating. This distraction can help ease the transition and prevent boredom. The challenge of getting the treat out can keep them engaged for a significant amount of time.

Frozen treats last longer and provide a cooling sensation, which can be soothing. This also helps create a positive association with the crate.

CRATE SIZE & TYPE

Selecting the correct crate size and type is crucial for your dog's comfort and safety. An ill-fitting crate can cause discomfort or even injury.

Crate Size

The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If the crate is too small, it will be uncomfortable and could lead to muscle stiffness or joint problems. If it's too large, your dog might use one end as a potty area, defeating the purpose of house-training.

For puppies, you can use a larger crate with a divider to adjust the space as they grow. This ensures they have just enough room to be comfortable without having excess space for accidents.

Crate Types

Several types of crates are available, each with its own advantages:

• Wire Crates: These are popular due to their excellent ventilation and visibility. They are often collapsible, making them easy to store and transport. Many come with dividers for growing puppies.
• Plastic (Travel) Crates: Also known as airline-approved crates, these offer a den-like feel and are good for dogs who prefer more enclosed spaces. They are durable and suitable for travel.
• Soft-Sided Crates: These are lightweight and portable, ideal for well-behaved dogs who are not prone to chewing or attempting to escape. They are often used for car travel or temporary confinement.

Choose the type based on your dog's temperament, chewing habits, and whether they are an "escape artist." Some dogs require the security and durability of a wire or plastic crate, while others may do well with a soft-sided option.

RISKS & WHEN TO AVOID CRATING

While crating can be beneficial, there are specific situations and signs that indicate it might not be suitable for your dog. Recognizing these risks is vital for your dog's welfare.

Excessive Duration

Never crate an adult dog for more than 8 hours at a stretch. Puppies, especially young ones, should not be crated for more than 4 hours. Prolonged confinement can lead to physical discomfort, stress, and behavioral problems. It can also hinder house-training efforts if the dog is forced to soil their den.

According to Chicago Urban Pets, "Crating an adult dog for 4-6 hours is acceptable, but anything over 8 hours is too long." This emphasizes the importance of limiting crate time.

Separation Anxiety

Crating can exacerbate separation anxiety in some dogs. If your dog exhibits signs of severe anxiety when left alone, such as excessive barking, destructive behavior in the crate, or self-harm attempts (e.g., chewing on the crate bars until their mouth bleeds), crating might not be the best solution.

These behaviors indicate significant distress and require professional intervention from a vet or a certified dog trainer.

Medical Conditions

Dogs with certain medical conditions may not be suitable for crating. For example, dogs with incontinence or other urinary issues should not be crated for extended periods, as they may be unable to hold their bladder. Dogs with mobility issues or severe arthritis might also find prolonged confinement uncomfortable or painful.

Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about crating a dog with a pre-existing medical condition.

Distress Signs

Pay close attention to signs of distress when your dog is in the crate. These can include:

• Excessive whining or barking
• Persistent panting or drooling (beyond normal initial excitement)
• Frantic attempts to escape the crate
• Self-mutilation or destructive chewing within the crate

These behaviors are clear indicators that your dog is not comfortable or happy in the crate and that the situation needs to be addressed immediately.

When to See a Vet/Trainer

If your dog consistently shows signs of severe anxiety, aggression towards the crate, or an inability to settle down despite proper training and preparation, it's time to seek professional help. A certified professional dog trainer can assess the situation and provide tailored strategies. A veterinarian can rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to the distress.

ALTERNATIVES TO CRATING

For dog owners who work long hours or whose dogs do not tolerate crating well, several excellent alternatives can ensure their pets receive adequate care and supervision.

Dog Walker or Sitter

For long workdays, arranging for a professional dog walker or pet sitter is an excellent option. A dog walker can visit your home during the day to take your dog out for a potty break, a walk, and some playtime. This breaks up the long period of confinement and provides much-needed physical and mental stimulation.

A pet sitter can offer similar services or even stay at your home, providing continuous companionship and care. This is particularly beneficial for dogs who thrive on human interaction.

Doggy Daycare

Doggy daycare is a fantastic option for social dogs who enjoy the company of other canines and need a lot of activity. Daycare facilities provide supervised play, exercise, and socialization opportunities throughout the day. This can help prevent boredom, destructive behavior, and separation anxiety.

Before enrolling your dog, research local daycares and ensure they have good reviews, trained staff, and a safe, clean environment. Many facilities require a temperament test to ensure your dog is a good fit.

Pet-Proofed Room

Confining your dog to a safe, enclosed, and pet-proofed room is another viable alternative. This could be a laundry room, kitchen, or spare bedroom. Ensure the room is free of any hazards, such as toxic plants, electrical cords, or small objects that could be swallowed.

Provide your dog with comfortable bedding, plenty of safe toys, and a water bowl. This allows them more freedom of movement than a crate while still ensuring their safety and preventing damage to your home. Use baby gates to block off access to other parts of the house if needed.