Dogs are social mammals. They like to be close to their people. That being said, dogs are adaptable. Some pups and dogs can learn to relax in a crate that is placed in a laundry room or basement, away from the people. Some don’t adapt so well.
My initial suggestion is to place the crate in a corner of a common area. This presents the puppy with a safe resting spot near his people.
Placement depends on the individual pup’s personality and when the dog will be crated.
If you use a crate primarily when you are away or asleep, a laundry room or basement may be a good choice.
Keep in mind that it is better to teach the dog to relax in the crate when you are gone and when you are home. This is not accomplished if you only crate at night or when you are away.
Don’t be shy about experimenting with crate placement. Find the best spot for you and your dog.
Sometimes, moving the crate to another location resolves problems such as barking and eliminating in the crate.
A crate trained dog / puppy:
- will not eliminate in the crate
- readily enters the crate when asked
- relaxes in the crate when alone in the home
- relaxes in the crate when people are home and active
- relaxes in the crate when other animals are not crated
Start Off Right!
Visit the products page and purchase, Puppies for Thinkers – crate training, housebreaking, house training, meeting basic needs, play-biting and much more.
Happy Training!
Alan J Turner – Companion Animal Behavior Counselor & Trainer, Canine Specialization
Private and Group Dog Behavior and Training Services
Memphis, TN