Nighttime Kennels: The Pros and Cons For Sleeping Dogs

As a dog owner, you want to ensure that your pet gets the best care possible, and that includes a good night’s sleep. One question that many dog owners ask is whether their dogs should sleep in kennels at night. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to crate your dog at night.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that dogs are den animals, which means they naturally seek out small, enclosed spaces to sleep in. A kennel can provide a safe and cozy space for your dog to sleep in, especially if they have anxiety or feel insecure at night. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the kennel is the right size for your dog and that they have access to water and a comfortable bed.

Ultimately, the decision to crate your dog at night depends on your individual dog’s needs and personality. Some dogs may feel comfortable and secure in a kennel, while others may prefer to sleep in a dog bed or on the floor. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of crating your dog at night, and provide tips on how to crate train your dog if you decide to go down that route.

Benefits of Sleeping in Kennels

If you are wondering whether your dog should sleep in a kennel at night, there are a few benefits to consider. Here are some reasons why sleeping in a kennel can be beneficial for your pet:

Security

Sleeping in a kennel can provide your dog with a sense of security. It can be a safe and comfortable space for them to retreat to when they need some alone time or when they feel scared or anxious. A kennel can also keep your dog from wandering around the house at night or getting into things they shouldn’t.

Comfort

A kennel can also provide your dog with a comfortable place to sleep. You can add a cozy bed or blanket to the kennel to make it even more inviting. Sleeping in a kennel can also help your dog regulate their body temperature, especially if the kennel is placed in a draft-free area.

Training

Using a kennel at night can also be beneficial for training purposes. It can help with house training by teaching your dog to hold its bladder and bowels until it’s time to go outside. It can also help with crate training, which can be useful if you ever need to travel with your dog or if they need to stay at the vet overnight.

Drawbacks of Sleeping in Kennels

Anxiety

Sleeping in kennels can cause anxiety in dogs. Being confined to a small space can make them feel trapped and helpless. This can lead to excessive barking, whining, and destructive behavior. You may need to spend extra time training your dog to feel comfortable in its kennel.

Restriction

Kennels can be quite restrictive, limiting your dog’s ability to move around and stretch out. This can be uncomfortable, especially for larger breeds. It can also lead to joint problems and muscle stiffness over time. You may need to consider a larger kennel or alternative sleeping arrangements.

Isolation

Sleeping in a kennel can also be isolating for your dog. They may feel cut off from the rest of the family and miss out on social interaction. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. You may need to consider alternative sleeping arrangements that allow your dog to be closer to you. Overall, sleeping in kennels can have some drawbacks for your dog. It’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs and personality when deciding on their sleeping arrangements. With proper training and attention, you can help your dog feel comfortable and secure in their sleeping space.

Alternatives to Kennel Sleeping

If you’re not comfortable with your dog sleeping in a kennel at night, there are several alternatives you can try. Here are three options:

Crate Training

Crate training involves teaching your dog to feel comfortable and safe in a crate. This can be a useful option if you want to keep your dog contained in a certain area at night. Start by introducing your dog to the crate gradually, and make sure it’s a comfortable and inviting space. Use positive reinforcement to encourage your dog to enter and exit the crate, and gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends inside. Remember to never use the crate as a form of punishment.

Co-Sleeping

Co-sleeping involves allowing your dog to sleep in the same bed as you. This can be a great option if you want to provide your dog with comfort and companionship at night. However, it’s important to establish boundaries and rules to ensure that your dog doesn’t disrupt your sleep. You may also want to invest in a larger bed to ensure that you both have enough space.

Designated Sleeping Areas

Designated sleeping areas involve creating a specific area for your dog to sleep in, such as a dog bed or a designated corner of the room. This can be a good option if you want to provide your dog with a sense of security and comfort, without the confinement of a crate or kennel. Make sure the area is comfortable and inviting, and consider using blankets or pillows to make it cozier.

Conclusion

Overall, whether or not your dog should sleep in a kennel at night depends on various factors, including your dog’s behavior, temperament, and personal preferences. Kennels can be a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your dog, but it’s important to ensure that they are adequately trained and that the kennel is the right size for them.

Remember that dogs need plenty of sleep, and it’s important to provide them with a comfortable and secure place to rest. A good quality dog bed can also be a great option for providing your dog with a comfortable sleeping environment.

When it comes to crate training your puppy, it’s important to take things slow and be patient. Gradually increasing the amount of time your puppy spends in their crate can help them feel more comfortable and secure. Additionally, providing your puppy with plenty of exercises and mental stimulation during the day can help them sleep better at night.

FAQ

Is a Kennel Better Than a Bed?

The main reason why you might choose a kennel or a crate for your dog, rather than a doggy bed, is that it encourages them to use their own space. A kennel acts like a dog’s private bedroom, where they can feel safe, which also means that it is easier to keep them off your furniture.

Should My Dog Use an Outdoor Kennel or an Indoor Crate?

When choosing between a kennel and a crate, you want to think about the needs of your dog, in particular, depending on its breed and temperament. Guarding and shepherding dogs often prefer to sleep outside, to feel connected with the outdoors and able to protect their home, whereas smaller breeds, puppies, and older dogs can struggle with the cold.

How Big Should My Dog’s Kennel Be?

To sleep comfortably and feel happy using the kennel as its own space, your dog needs to be able to move around easily inside. Whether it is a wire crate or a wooden kennel, your dog should be able to lie down, stand up, and even run when they need to.

How Do I Calculate the Right Size Kennel for My Dog?

For a rough estimation of the right size kennel, you can do some simple calculations. A kennel should be as long as your dog from nose to tail tip plus the length of their legs to their elbows, as wide as their shoulders plus 3cm on either side and as tall as your dog standing up plus 7cm.

Will My Dog Feel Comfortable Inside a Kennel Overnight?

Most dogs will be able to feel safe and secure when sleeping in their kennel, but they must be adequately trained to feel that the space is their own. Make sure that you do not use a kennel as a way of “locking up” your dog or they will begin to see it as a punishment.

How Can I Make My Dog Use a Kennel?

Use incentives, like treats and toys, to encourage your dog to enter their kennel, and then ensure that it is a warm, soft, and welcoming space inside. For your dog to want to sleep in their kennel at night, they should be able to come and go during the day as well, so don’t lock them in or out.

Will My Dog Be Safe in a Kennel?

Keeping your dog safe is always a top priority, and kennels can provide a secure, enclosed space for them to sleep, inside or out. The kennel needs to be kept clean and hygienic, be warm enough in any weather, be elevated from any ground moisture if it is outside, and have nothing above it that might fall overnight.

What Does My Dog Need in Their Kennel?

Your first consideration when furnishing a kennel should be warmth and comfort, so it should be lined with blankets, a doggy bed, or even optional extras like heating lamps if your dog is going to be outside during the winter. Your dog will also want access to water, a feeding bowl, and toys for them to play with.

Can My Dog Hurt Themselves in a Kennel?

If you are purchasing a kennel, make sure that it is fit for your purpose: it should be the right size dog, constructed well, and correctly assembled. Your dog is only likely to hurt themselves within a kennel if they are locked inside and distressed, so make sure that they are trained and happy before leaving them inside.

Can My Children Play in a Dog Kennel?

Your dog should view their kennel as their own safe space where they can go to sleep, rest or play, and they will find it difficult to be relaxed if children are often climbing inside. Dogs can become very protective over their kennels and may lash out at people, or other animals, that they feel are invading their space.