The Pros of Dog Kenneling: Why It's a Great Choice for Your Pet

Kenneling a dog is a practice that might receive some pushback from dog owners. 

As a dog trainer, I can confidently say that kenneling is a valuable tool that we consistently use for good reason.

Think of kenneling as a “free babysitter” for your dog. It provides a safe and comfortable space for your dogs to relax and rest, similar to how toddlers need naps to recharge.

By giving your dog this downtime, they can process their training sessions and adapt to the changes you’re introducing.

One common misconception is that kenneling is a permanent solution. In reality, it’s a temporary measure, especially during the training phase. 

The goal is to teach your dog to be well-behaved and earn more freedom over time. As they learn and form good habits, you can gradually offer them more freedom.

Kenneling has numerous benefits:

1. Teaching Relaxation: Kenneling teaches dogs to relax and wait patiently. It instills the understanding that the humans make the decisions and set the schedule. This helps build trust and a sense of security.
2. Enhancing Training: Well-rested dogs learn faster. Regular naps between training sessions allow them to absorb the lessons more effectively, leading to quicker progress.
3. Preventing Destructive Behavior: Kenneling prevents dogs from engaging in destructive behaviors when left unsupervised. It helps protect your belongings and ensures your dog’s safety.
4. Fostering Independence: Dogs learn to be independent and confident when they can cope with short periods of peace. This is especially crucial for puppies to prevent separation anxiety.
5. Safe and Calm Space: Kenneling provides a calm and secure space for your dog to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed or anxious.

Some owners might encounter initial resistance from their dogs when introducing kenneling, especially if it wasn’t introduced early on. 

However, a skilled dog trainer can help guide both you and your dog through this process, making it a smoother experience for everyone.

It’s important to remember that every dog is unique, and their reactions to kenneling may vary. Some dogs may adjust quickly, while others might take a bit more time. 

Patience and consistency are key to helping your dog embrace the kennel as a positive space.

Kenneling is a powerful tool to shape your dog’s behavior and set them up for success. When used correctly, it can foster a strong bond between you and your dog while creating a harmonious and well-behaved living environment.

As experienced dog trainers, we understand the importance of kenneling and how it can greatly benefit both you and your dog.

So, if you’re facing any challenges or concerns with kenneling, feel free to reach out for professional guidance. We’re here to help you and your dogs thrive together!