From The Woofer in Chief: Why I Love My Crate (Even If You Don’t Use One)
As Woofer-in-Chief, I’ve seen a lot of dogs come through our doors — excitable ones, shy ones, sleepy ones, barky ones. Every dog is different, and that’s the way we like it.
But there’s one thing that tends to divide pet parents: crate training.
Some humans swear by it. Others reckon it’s cruel or unnecessary. So I thought I’d bark out my take — from a dog who loves his crate but totally gets that not every pup does.
My Crate = My Safe Zone
My crate isn’t a cage. It’s my personal den — a quiet place where I can relax, snooze, and chew a dental stick or carrot in peace. When things get busy, it’s nice to have somewhere that’s just mine.
Sometimes I go in there when I’m tired. Sometimes when I’m overwhelmed. Sometimes when I’m scared and want to feel safe.
Crate Training Helps Me Feel Calm (and Keeps Me Safe)
When I was younger, my humans made my crate a super chill place — comfy bedding, a chew toy, and heaps of praise when I went in. So now, if we’re travelling, visiting the vet, or staying somewhere new, I’ve got a routine that keeps me grounded.
I’ve also seen how helpful crates are when:
Dogs need a rest break during boarding or daycare
Someone’s feeling overwhelmed or needs space
There’s a medical or transport emergency
But What If Your Dog Isn’t Crate Trained?
No worries at all. At Hound Hero, crate training is NOT a requirement. We’ll never force your dog into a crate or use it as punishment. Some of my best mates aren’t crate trained and still have a ball here.
We always make sure dogs have a comfy bed, a quiet spot to rest, and enough space to feel secure.
But if your dog is crate trained?
That gives us more flexibility to keep things calm and safe, especially if they’re staying overnight.
So, Should You Crate Train Your Dog?
Totally your call. But if you do:
Start slow, keep it positive
Make it a chill place, not a punishment
Use it consistently, especially during down-time
It’s not about locking us up. It’s about giving us a den we can call our own.
A Final Word from a Dog Who’s Seen It All
At Hound Hero, we’re not here to judge your choices — we’re here to work with them.
Crate-trained? Great.
Not crate-trained? That’s great too.
Unsure where to start? We can point you in the right direction.
Because whether your dog naps in a crate, on the couch, or under your doona…
We want them to feel safe, secure, and completely at home.
— Theodore
Hound in Residence & Woofer-in-Chief