Pet Sitting, Dog Walking, Scottsdale, AZ

When I hear that kennels are “mean” for dogs I have to laugh and say, “No they’re not!” As American Humane puts it, “Dogs are den animals. They need their own sanctuary that is just large enough for them to fit inside and feel secure. They need a “home away from home” where they can go when they are stressed. If you don’t provide your dog a “den” of its own, it may make do with whatever is around — a chair, the narrow place behind the couch, or the wedge of space between the bed and the wall.”

Dog Kennels can be a really great tool for potty training. If the kennel is dressed properly, the pet will not go to the bathroom in there and will learn where the designated potty spot is.

Here are some tips if you have a dog kennel at home…

SIZE – Make sure it is only big enough for them to walk inside, turn around, and lay down. Any bigger (at first) you run the risk of them going potty on one side and laying on the other end.

LOCATION – Make sure you position it in a comfortable place. For example our of the direction of direct sunlight, maybe near a fan (the noise will drown out other noises and also be soothing), and away from any doors or windows.

CONTENTS – You don’t ever want to leave your dog with something they can choke on. Stuffed animals, Nyla bones, or kongs are a great trick. It will keep them busy for hours!  Some put a towel over the top to cover the kennel so it is more “den like” Some often suggest putting a ticking time clock on the outside if there is a puppy, or a water bottle (assuming your pet doesn’t destroy things) inside a sock and then wrapped in your dirty t shirt for the warmth and smell of you.

BENEFITS - Training your dog to be in a kennel when you are not home will help reduce stress, and make them more comfortable. No more will they feel like they have to run around your home “protecting” it against every noise they hear.

POTTY ISSUES? If your dog has ever had potty issues inside the kennel I would suggest trying to create a smaller space and leaving some kibble in a bowl. Most pets will not go potty where they eat.

WIRE v PLASTIC If you have a breed that likes to dig I would recommend a plastic kennel. The wire ones are only good for those pets who don’t try to dig to get out. If a digging pet was in a wired crate, they could end up with bloody paws.

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