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It seems dogs have always been hanging around man in some capacity or other. It didn't take too long before they became part of the human tribe. But they needed to really feel like they belonged with human groups. Dogs are made to feel a part of our human groups by allowing us to become the pack leader. They are subservient and truly don't mind being sort of "second class citizens". They like not having to be in charge because it relieves them of responsibility.

Dogs, before they began hanging out with us humans, would live in groups in dens. Dens would be small dark, almost cave like structures. Crates are often seen as replacement for the den. Deep down in the crevices of the dog's ancient mind they recall a couple of things. One of the things they recall is their dens. Dens were always a good experience for them; it was their home and their safe place.

Today we crate dogs as a way to keep them under control perhaps while you are out of the house. Crates should always be of an appropriate size for your dog. Also, you need to make certain you introduce the crate at a very early age and let the dog know that it's not a punishment. Crates should never be seen as a punishment but rather as a home within a home.

Crates should always be seen as a positive experience for a dog. If they feel that it's a negative experience being in a crate then you are using the crate in the wrong way. You want them to want to be as comfortable in the crate as you are in your favorite chair. If you are using a crate correctly they will come to love it.

Crates should never be used to "store" your dog; it's not designed to lock your dog up so you don't have to deal with it. When you are home dogs must be out of the crate and be a part of the family group. They need to play and exercise to wear off energy that they probably managed to store up while in the crate. Make them part of your family and make them feel like they are wanted within your group.

It is important when you need to crate your dog that he or she has had a good amount of exercise both before crating and after you return home. Your dog will be much happier and enjoy his crate time even more. Then again, exercise is always important even if you don't crate your dog. It's great for their health and for yours too.

My dog has a crate and it's a place she loves to go to. It is kept in an area that is easy for her to get to and we keep the door open all the time. We will find occasions that she heads to her crate to find some peace and quiet, especially if our lovely grand daughter is around and making a racket. There is a family rule that says if Mocha is in her cage, that's what we call it her cage, then everyone is supposed to leave her alone. It's a rule that works out well and it was something our grand baby has picked up on very quickly.

Crates are good things and should always be seen as such by your dog. Anything else is not fair to your dog.

Learn more about this author, R.A. Scott.
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