Crates are useful training tools, but can be misused.
According to the Humane Society, crate training is an excellent way to house train your dog while protecting your house from urine, chewing and other damage. A dog that is properly crate trained may use the crate as a den, or "safe place." Crates also make transportation easier and safer. Owners can recognize if a dog is in its crate too much by looking for some common symptoms.
Elimination
A dog that is crated for too long may not be able to hold his bladder, and might urinate and defecate in the crate. According to the Champaign County Humane Society, puppies should not be crated for more than four hours per day. Eliminating in the crate interferes with housebreaking and can be difficult to clean up.
Frustration
The Dumb Friends League states that a dog that is crated for too long shows signs of frustration. Long periods of crating cause a dog to feel trapped. The Champaign County Humane Society lists behaviors such as barking, restlessness, overexcitedness out of the crate, as well as destructive behaviors, such as chewing as signs of frustration in dogs. High energy breeds should be exercised before being crated or their pent-up energy will only contribute to the feeling of frustration.
Depression
Long periods in the crate means less time spent with humans or other animals. Dogs are social creatures who crave company, and depriving them of that company can often cause depression. According to veterinary behaviorist Soraya Juarbe-Diaz, depression symptoms in dogs include lack of motivation, decreased appetite and refusal to interact socially.
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