Should Two Puppies Be Crated Together? A Comprehensive Guide
The answer to Should 2 puppies be crated together? is generally no. While seemingly convenient, crating two puppies together often leads to behavioral problems, hinders individual training, and can even pose safety risks.
The Appeal of Crating Two Puppies Together
Many new puppy owners, especially those adopting littermates or multiple puppies simultaneously, are tempted to crate them together. The initial appeal is understandable:
- Perceived Comfort: The puppies are already bonded and may seem more comfortable with a companion.
- Convenience: One crate takes up less space than two.
- Reduced Crying: The hope is that the presence of a sibling will alleviate crying and anxiety.
However, these perceived benefits often mask significant drawbacks that can negatively impact the puppies’ development and well-being.
The Dangers of Co-Crating
Despite the initial allure, crating two puppies together is fraught with potential problems:
- Lack of Individual Space: Puppies need individual safe spaces to de-stress, relax, and sleep soundly. Sharing a crate prevents this.
- Resource Guarding: Competition for food, toys, or even space within the crate can lead to resource guarding, which can escalate into aggression.
- Difficulty in House Training: Accidents are more likely when two puppies are confined together, making house training significantly harder. It’s also difficult to discern which puppy had the accident.
- Hindered Individual Training: Crate training is a crucial element of overall training. Each puppy needs to learn that their crate is their personal den and a safe, comfortable space. Co-crating undermines this individual association.
- Increased Anxiety: One puppy’s anxiety can easily be amplified by the other, leading to increased overall stress levels.
- Accidental Injury: Playful nipping or wrestling inside the confined space of the crate can easily result in injuries, especially as the puppies grow larger and stronger.
The Importance of Individual Crates
The advantages of crating puppies separately far outweigh any perceived convenience of co-crating:
- Promotes Independence: Individual crating encourages independence and reduces the risk of separation anxiety.
- Facilitates House Training: Easier to monitor individual elimination habits and prevent accidents.
- Enhances Training Effectiveness: Allows for individualized crate training, making the crate a positive experience for each puppy.
- Reduces Competition: Eliminates the risk of resource guarding and associated aggression.
- Provides a Safe Haven: Each puppy has a secure and comfortable den to retreat to when feeling overwhelmed or tired.
How to Crate Train Puppies Individually
Here’s a step-by-step guide to successful individual crate training:
- Introduce the Crate Positively: Make the crate a fun and inviting place.
- Associate the Crate with Positive Experiences: Feed meals and treats inside the crate.
- Start with Short Sessions: Gradually increase the amount of time the puppy spends in the crate.
- Make it Comfortable: Provide a soft bed, safe toys, and a water bowl.
- Supervise Initially: Don’t leave the puppy unattended for extended periods until they are comfortable.
- Reward Calm Behavior: Praise and reward the puppy for staying calm and relaxed in the crate.
- Never Use the Crate as Punishment: The crate should always be associated with positive experiences.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forcing the Puppy into the Crate: This creates negative associations.
- Ignoring Whining or Barking: Address the underlying cause of the distress.
- Leaving the Puppy in the Crate for Too Long: Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration.
- Lack of Consistency: Consistent training is key to success.
Alternative Solutions for Separation Anxiety
If you’re concerned about your puppies’ separation anxiety, consider these alternatives to co-crating:
- Separate Crates in the Same Room: This allows the puppies to be near each other without sharing a crate.
- Interactive Toys: Keep the puppies entertained and engaged while they are separated.
- Professional Training: Consult a certified dog trainer for personalized guidance.
Understanding Littermate Syndrome
While not directly related to crating, it’s important to understand Littermate Syndrome if you have littermates. This occurs when puppies raised together become overly dependent on each other and struggle to develop independently. Individual crating is just one component of preventing this syndrome, which requires deliberate and separate socialization and training.
The Verdict on Crating Two Puppies Together:
Should 2 puppies be crated together? Ultimately, the potential risks associated with co-crating far outweigh any perceived benefits. Providing each puppy with their own crate fosters independence, facilitates training, and promotes a healthier, happier relationship between you and your dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it ever okay to crate two puppies together?
Generally, no. While there might be rare exceptions for very small puppies for extremely short periods, the risks of resource guarding, hindered training, and lack of individual space almost always outweigh any perceived benefits. Prioritize individual crates from the outset.
What if my puppies seem to enjoy being crated together?
Even if puppies seem comfortable initially, problems can develop later as they mature and their personalities diverge. Their apparent comfort might stem from learned helplessness or simply being used to the situation, rather than genuine enjoyment. It’s best to proactively prevent potential issues with individual crates.
How long should I crate my puppy?
Puppies should not be crated for extended periods. As a general guideline, they shouldn’t be crated for more than their age in months plus one hour (e.g., a 3-month-old puppy shouldn’t be crated for more than 4 hours). Always provide regular breaks for potty, play, and socialization.
My puppies cry when separated; should I crate them together then?
Crying is normal when puppies are initially separated. Resist the urge to crate them together. Instead, address the separation anxiety through gradual desensitization, positive reinforcement, and professional guidance if necessary.
Can I put my puppies’ crates next to each other?
Yes! Placing the crates next to each other can provide comfort and reduce anxiety without the risks of co-crating. This allows them to have their individual space while still feeling close to each other.
When should I start crate training my puppies individually?
Begin crate training as soon as you bring the puppies home. Start with short, positive sessions and gradually increase the duration. Early and consistent training is key to success.
What size crate should I get for each puppy?
The crate should be large enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can use a portion of it as a toilet. You can use a crate divider to adjust the size as the puppy grows.
What if my puppies fight in the crate?
This is a clear sign that they should never be crated together. Separate them immediately and consider seeking professional guidance from a veterinarian behaviorist or certified dog trainer to address the underlying aggression.
How do I make the crate a positive experience for my puppies?
Make the crate a fun and inviting place by feeding meals and treats inside, providing comfortable bedding, and offering safe toys. Avoid using the crate as punishment.
Should I put a blanket over the crate?
A blanket can provide a sense of security and privacy for some puppies, but ensure there’s adequate ventilation. Observe your puppies’ behavior to see if they prefer the crate covered or uncovered.
Is crate training cruel?
Crate training, when done correctly, is not cruel. It provides puppies with a safe and secure den, and can actually reduce anxiety. The key is to make it a positive experience and avoid using the crate as punishment.
What if one puppy is crate-trained and the other isn’t?
Focus on individual training. Continue rewarding the crate-trained puppy, while gently and patiently introducing the other puppy to the crate using positive reinforcement. Don’t force the untrained puppy; take it slow and make it enjoyable.