Puppy’s Crate Escape: A Pet Owner’s Lesson in Crate Training

A pet owner named Heber recently discovered how her puppy reacted when left alone at home for the first time. Hoping to complete a quick 30-minute errand, Heber left her 3-month-old Pomeranian, Marky, at home alone, suspecting he might have a challenging time. Checking the pet camera while out, she instantly regretted her decision as she witnessed Marky’s distress.

Heber shared the footage on Instagram, showing Marky’s continuous cries, seemingly calling for his family to return. “It must have started the second we left!” she said, reflecting on the scene that would linger in her memory. But the cries were not the only surprise. Marky escaped from the crate, jumping over the top, leading Heber to “retire the crate.” This bold move from the puppy made it clear the crate was unsuitable.

Following this incident, Heber chose to let Marky roam freely at home. “We decided to let him free roam,” she noted. “And honestly? He’s been a much happier king ever since. No more jail breaks needed!” The change was beneficial, and with time, the family welcomed another dog, a “little sister” to keep Marky company.

Crate or No Crate?

Crate training remains a popular method among dog owners, particularly for puppies, yet it sparks debate. Experts emphasize that crates should serve as a safe haven, not a form of punishment. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), crates can offer dogs a personal space to relax, sleep, and feel secure. They can aid in house training and prevent destructive behavior.

Yet, crate training isn’t suitable for every dog. The AKC cautions against forcing dogs into crates or using them as punishment, which could foster negative feelings about the space. Instead, dogs should gradually associate the crate with positive experiences. With patience and care, crate training can be effective, though not every approach works for all dogs.