8 Alternatives to Crate Training
A crate is a helpful tool in teaching your best furry buddy the house rules. But there are also several reasons why you may not prefer crate training.
The previous owner of your dog may have used crates as a form of punishment. Or your dog may be experiencing separation anxiety. Or you probably don’t have a space for a crate or your dog keeps barking when inside a crate.
Or, you just don’t like the idea of having your dog confined. Either way, there are crate training alternatives that you can also check out. Here are some of them.
1. Using fence gates
You can use fence or baby gates to limit your dog’s access to the house. You can contain the cleaning and also work at home without worrying about your furry family member from getting into trouble.
It’s also a lot easier to dog-proof a fenced area than the entire house. I strongly recommend you keep the fenced in area indoors.
2. Using playpens or exercise pens
If you have an area at home that your dog can use as his, then this idea may be worth considering. You need to look into the fence structure, though.
If your dog is a jumper, he may escape from the fence. If he’s powerful, he may be able to take it down. Hence, the barrier should be sturdy enough. If he gets caught up in the gaps of the fence, he may get injured. Jumping may also cause injuries.
Also, the area should not be carpeted to prevent demanding cleaning.
3. Taking your dog to work
Some offices allow taking dogs to work. If your company does the same, then perhaps you can think about bringing your dog with you.
Most probably, the biggest challenge to this is having your pet toilet trained first.
4. Keeping them in a fenced yard
If your yard is secured, you may consider letting your furry baby out while you’re away. However, this option will not work if your dog loves barking.
You also need to consider external elements, such as the weather. If it gets too cold or hot, your dog should have a safe place to stay. Your canine companion should also be provided his basic needs, such as water and food.
5. Working with a dog watcher
Another option is to have someone to look after your dog. The good thing with this route is that your dog is sure to have his daily dose of exercise.
And if an emergency arises, someone is there to care for your him. However, you need to consider your budget especially if your only option is to hire a professional.
6. Leaving activities for your dog
For this option, you will still need a sort of confinement for your dog. You don’t want to give him free rein into your house. You also need to look into toys that are safe. Avoid those that may cause choking or strangulation.
There are toys that also double as a container for treats. Put treats inside the toy, freeze it, and give it to your dog to keep him entertained and happy for hours.
If you would like to keep watch of your dog even when you’re away, consider investing in a pet camera.
7. Taking them to doggie daycare
You may also take your canine companion to doggie daycare. But first, you need to check the center’s requirements.
A doggie daycare may have restrictions on the age, needs, and behavior of dogs. Even if you can afford to get your dog in, this may not be a viable option if he doesn’t qualify.
8. Providing constant supervision
This is the most challenging alternative to crate training. It also isn’t 100% possible. This method requires that you look after your furry buddy 24 hours a day to keep him from causing troubles. One of the best ways to achieve this is by giving your dog its own space, such as a laundry room, extra bathroom, or even an extra room in your home. You can then set up one or multiple pet cameras to keep an eye on them. This will allow you to check in with them at any time, regardless of where you are.
You can try this only if you’re staying at home the entire day. But then again, even if you do, at one point, you’ll still have to step out of the house.
There are also little things, such as cooking, that may take your attention away from your dog. This means that using tools, such as a leash, or some form of confinement is still needed.
Every Method to Raising a Dog Has Its Pros and Cons
Long-term confinement isn’t good for dogs, especially if they aren’t trained for it. There are crate training alternatives that you may try but note that each still has its own pros and cons.
Check whatever works best for you and your pet. At the end of the day, it is your choice how you’ll want to raise your furry baby.
