I used to be very unsure about crate training a dog but my opinions have changed. I think that it is perfectly possible to crate train a dog as part of a positive reenforcement training programme.

The reason that I have changed my mind is fairly simple. If you step back and think about it is your dogs natural instinct to find and live in a den. This provides him with a safe haven and a place to call his own.

We don’t have any space in our house for a dog crate, Fig has a basket instead which is under a table. This provides the same type of environement.

Dog crates can be very useful as long as they are used in the right way, here are some guidelines on how the dog crate should be used:

• Your dog should not be shut in there for long periods of time.
• The crate should not be used as punishment.
• There must be enough space in the crate for your dog to stand up, turn around and stretch in.
• The crate must not be in a segregated area it must be somewhere where the dog can take part in normal family life.
• There must be a supply of soft bedding and fresh water to ensure your dogs comfort.
• If your dog is distressed by this training method you should stop its use immediately.