Where is the best place to put your dog crate at home?

Once we’ve chosen the right crate and selected one in the correct size, the next question is; where is the best place to put your dog crate at home? Let’s take a look at some of the more common options, why we might choose to put our crate there and the pros and cons of each.

What’s an ideal location for a dog crate?

The ideal location for placing a dog crate in your home depends on various factors, including the dog’s personality, your lifestyle, and the layout of your living space. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the best locations for a dog crate:

1. Quiet and Calm Area:
   • Choose a quiet and calm area where your dog can relax without being disturbed by excessive noise or foot traffic. This helps create a safe and comfortable environment. You don’t want to be walking past it constantly while your dog is attempting to relax so bear this in mind.
2. Near Family Activity:
   • While you want a quiet location, it’s also beneficial to place the crate in an area where the family spends a lot of time. Dogs are social animals, and they often enjoy being close to their human family members. So make sure your puppy can see what’s going on whilst in their crate.
3. Bedroom:
   • Many dogs find comfort in being close to their owner’s scent, so placing the crate in your bedroom can be a good option. This can also help with bonding and reduce nighttime anxiety for some dogs. Remember, there’s nothing wrong with having more than one crate in your home.
4. Avoid Drafts and Direct Sunlight:
   • Ensure that the crate is not placed in an area with drafts or direct sunlight, as this can make the space uncomfortable for your dog. You want to provide a consistent and pleasant environment. Don’t forget to check that the crate isn’t in the sun at all times of the day, that shady spot at 8 am might be a sun spot at lunchtime.
5. Easy Access to Outdoors:
   • If possible, place the crate in an area that allows for easy access to the outdoors. This can be especially helpful for house training, as it allows your dog to quickly go outside when needed. Don’t forget that puppies will need to go potty as soon as they wake up so you be able to see your dog in their crate and be able to direct them outside asap!
6. Away from Hazards:
   • Avoid placing the crate near potential hazards such as wires, cords, or anything else that the dog could potentially chew on or get tangled in. It also reduces any temptation to the dog to put their noses or paws through the wire bars of the crate which can result in injuries.
7. Consideration for Temperature:
   • Ensure that the temperature in the chosen location is suitable for your dog. Avoid placing the crate in areas that are too hot or too cold.

Remember that every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Pay attention to your dog’s behavior and adjust the crate placement accordingly.

What’s the worst location for a dog crate?

The worst location for a dog crate is one that is associated with negative experiences, discomfort, or isolation for the dog. Here are some examples of locations that may not be suitable for a dog crate:

1. Isolated or Unused Room:
   • Placing the crate in an isolated or unused room, such as a basement or utility room, where the dog is separated from the family may lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
2. High-Traffic Areas:
   • While you want the crate to be accessible to family members, placing it in a high-traffic area where there’s a lot of noise and commotion may make it stressful for the dog to relax.
3. Near Noisy Appliances:
   • Avoid placing the crate near noisy appliances, such as washing machines, dryers, or furnaces. The constant noise can be unsettling for the dog.
4. Direct Sunlight or Drafty Areas:
   • Crates placed in areas with direct sunlight or drafts can make the space uncomfortable for the dog. It’s important to provide a consistent and pleasant environment.
5. Close to Aggressive Animals:
   • If you have other pets that may be aggressive or intimidating to your dog, avoid placing the crate in close proximity to them.
6. In the Line of Sight of Predators (Real or Perceived):
   • Dogs may feel vulnerable in certain areas, especially if they perceive a threat. Avoid placing the crate in a location where the dog can constantly see potential threats, whether they are real or perceived. This can be a scary washing machine, or strangers coming in the front door.
7. Near Busy Entrances or Exits:
   • Placing the crate near busy entrances or exits, where people are coming and going frequently, may cause stress and anxiety for the dog.
8. In Areas with Hazardous Materials:
   • Avoid areas with hazardous materials or substances that could harm the dog if accidentally ingested or touched.

The Lounge

Most owners choose to put at least one of their crates in the lounge so that their puppy can be part of the family dynamic even if they choose to snooze in their crate.

Pros and Cons

Placing a dog crate in the lounge, or the living room, has both advantages and potential drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

1. Family Proximity:
   • The living room is often a central hub where family members spend time. Placing the dog crate here allows your dog to be close to the family, fostering a sense of companionship and reducing feelings of isolation.
2. Social Interaction:
   • Dogs are social animals, and being in the living room provides more opportunities for social interaction with family members and guests. This can contribute to a positive and well-socialized dog.
3. Reduced Loneliness:
   • Dogs may feel less lonely when crated in a room where there’s activity and human presence. This can be particularly beneficial if you are away from home for periods during the day.
4. Training Opportunities:
   • Having the crate in a central location allows for easier supervision and training. You can more effectively monitor your dog’s behavior and provide positive reinforcement when appropriate.
5. Temperature Control:
   • Living rooms are usually temperature-controlled, providing a comfortable environment for your dog.

Cons:

1. Noise and Distractions:
   • The living room can be a noisy and busy area, which might be distracting for a dog trying to rest or relax in the crate. This could potentially lead to stress or anxiety.
2. Limited Privacy:
   • Some dogs prefer a more private and enclosed space for resting. The living room may not offer the level of seclusion that some dogs desire, especially if there’s a lot of foot traffic.
3. Potential for Overstimulation:
   • If your living room is a high-traffic area with frequent comings and goings, it might overstimulate some dogs, making it challenging for them to settle down in the crate.
4. Limited Escape from Activity:
   • If your living room is always active, your dog might have limited opportunities to retreat to a quiet and calm space, which could be important for their overall well-being.
5. Space Constraints:
   • Depending on the size of your living room, the crate might take up valuable space. This could be a consideration if you have a small living area or if the crate is large.

The Kitchen / Utility Room

Owners often choose to place at least one of their crates in the kitchen or utility room especially if they intend to have them sleeping in that space.

Pros and Cons

Placing a dog crate in the kitchen or utility room has its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

1. Easy Cleanup:
   • Kitchens and utility rooms often have surfaces that are easy to clean. This can be beneficial in case of accidents or spills, making it a convenient location for a crate, especially during house training.
2. Proximity to Outdoors:
   • Many kitchens have access to a back door or outdoor area. Placing the crate in the kitchen can make it easier for your dog to go outside for bathroom breaks.
3. Temperature Control:
   • Kitchens are typically temperature-controlled, providing a comfortable environment for your dog.
4. Quiet and Calm:
   • These areas can be relatively quiet, especially during certain times of the day. This may provide a more serene environment for your dog compared to a busy living room.
5. Proximity to Family:
   • While not as central as the living room, the kitchen is often a hub of family activity. Your dog can still be near family members while having a slightly more secluded space.

Cons:

1. Limited Social Interaction:
   • If your family spends less time in the kitchen, your dog may have fewer opportunities for social interaction, which could be a drawback if your dog is social and enjoys human company.
2. Isolation During Meals:
   • Placing the crate in the kitchen might mean that your dog is isolated during meal times, which could be perceived as a negative experience if they are excluded from family activities.
3. Limited Privacy:
   • Similar to the living room, the kitchen may not provide the level of seclusion or privacy that some dogs prefer for rest and relaxation.
4. Potential for Food-Related Distractions:
   • The kitchen is associated with food preparation, and if your dog is easily tempted by food, the smells and activities in the kitchen could be distracting.
5. Space Constraints:
   • Depending on the size of your kitchen or utility room, there may be limited space for a crate, especially if it’s a larger one.

The Bedroom

Owners less commonly place their main crate in the bedroom however some dogs will settle faster and be less anxious if they can sleep in the same space as their bonded owner. So if you don’t want your dog on the bed, this might be an acceptable compromise.6

Pros and Cons

Placing a dog crate in the bedroom can have both advantages and potential drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

1. Proximity to Owner:
   • Having the crate in the bedroom allows your dog to be close to you during the night. This can provide comfort and a sense of security, reducing feelings of separation anxiety.
2. Bonding Opportunity:
   • Sharing a bedroom allows for increased bonding between you and your dog. Dogs are pack animals, and being near their owners can enhance the human-animal bond.
3. Reduced Nighttime Anxiety:
   • Some dogs experience anxiety or stress when left alone at night. Having the crate in the bedroom can alleviate this anxiety, as your dog knows you are nearby.
4. Easy Supervision:
   • Placing the crate in the bedroom allows for easier supervision of your dog, especially if you are crate training or if your dog is recovering from an illness or surgery.
5. Temperature Control:
   • Bedrooms are typically temperature-controlled, providing a comfortable environment for your dog.

Cons:

1. Limited Privacy:
   • If you prefer privacy in your bedroom, having the crate in this space may limit your personal space and time alone.
2. Disruption of Sleep:
   • Some dogs may be restless or noisy during the night, potentially disrupting your sleep if the crate is in close proximity to your bed.
3. Allergies or Sensitivities:
   • If you have allergies or sensitivities, having a dog in the bedroom may exacerbate these issues.
4. Space Constraints:
   • Bedrooms may be limited in space, and if the crate is large, it could take up valuable floor space.
5. Potential for Overattachment:
   • If not managed properly, having the crate in the bedroom could lead to overattachment issues, where the dog becomes overly dependent on your presence.

Ultimately, the decision to where you place the crate depends on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and your dog’s behavior. It’s important to observe your dog’s reactions and adjust accordingly to ensure that both you and your dog are comfortable with the arrangement.

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