Crate Training vs. Free Roaming: Pros and Cons for Shih Poos

Matthew Farthing 27.04.2023 0

You have just brought home your new Shih Poo puppy, and now you’re stuck with the dilemma of whether to crate train them or allow them to roam around freely. This decision can be tough to make since both options have their pros and cons, and ultimately, you want what is best for your furry friend. In this article, we will go over the advantages and drawbacks of both crate training and free roaming for Shih Poos. By the end of this piece, you will have a better understanding of which option is best for your Shih Poo and how to make the right decision. So, let’s dive into the world of crate training vs. free roaming for Shih Poos.

Crate Training for Shih Poos

Crate training is a popular method of training dogs to become obedient and disciplined pets. It involves the use of a crate or cage as a safe and secure space for your pooch. For Shih Poos, a specific type of dog breed known for their playful and energetic nature, crate training can be an effective way to enhance their behavior and ensure their safety. In this section, we will discuss what crate training is, its advantages and disadvantages, and provide tips on how to properly crate train your Shih Poo. For more information on the benefits of crate training your Shih Poo, check out this article!

What is Crate Training?

Crate training is a method of confining your Shih Poo to a small, enclosed space when you’re not able to supervise them. The crate is often made of metal, plastic, or fabric, and serves as a cozy and secure den for your furry friend.

There are several reasons why crate training is popular among dog owners. First, it can help prevent your Shih Poo from destroying your home when you’re away or asleep. Dogs are naturally den animals and tend to avoid soiling the space where they sleep. Second, it can provide them with a sense of security and privacy, which can be especially important if they experience anxiety or stress. Finally, crate training can make traveling with your Shih Poo much easier, as they will have a safe and familiar place to stay while on the go.

However, there are a few drawbacks to crate training as well. Some dogs may feel confined or anxious in a crate, especially if they have not been properly trained to use one. Additionally, if your Shih Poo spends too much time in the crate, they may become bored and restless, leading to behavior problems such as excessive barking or chewing.

If you’ve decided to crate train your Shih Poo, it’s important to do it correctly. Proper crate size is crucial, as a crate that’s too small can be uncomfortable, while a crate that’s too big can give your Shih Poo too much space to move around and potentially soil. To learn more about selecting the right size crate for your Shih Poo, check out our article on Shih Poo crate size.

You should also take care to avoid some of the common mistakes that dog owners make when crate training their furry friends. For example, never use the crate as a punishment or leave your Shih Poo in the crate for extended periods of time.

Finally, using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise can help your Shih Poo learn to love their crate. For more tips on crate training your Shih Poo, check out our article on crate training tips.

Advantages of Crate Training for Shih Poos

Crate training is a popular method for training Shih Poos, and it has several advantages. The following table outlines some of the main benefits of crate training for Shih Poos:

Advantages of Crate Training for Shih Poos
Creates a Safe Space: A crate provides a safe and secure space for your Shih Poo, which is especially helpful during times when they may feel stressed or overwhelmed.
Aids in House Training: When used correctly, a crate can be a valuable tool in house training your Shih Poo. Dogs are naturally inclined to keep their dens clean, so a crate can help your Shih Poo learn to hold it until they are let outside.
Prevents Destructive Behaviors: By limiting your Shih Poo’s access to your home, you can prevent them from engaging in destructive behaviors, such as chewing on furniture or getting into the trash.
Reduces Risk of Accidents: By using a crate, you can reduce the risk of accidents in your home, as your Shih Poo won’t have free reign to eliminate wherever they please.
Helps with Travel: If you plan on traveling with your Shih Poo, crate training can make the experience less stressful for both you and your dog.

Crate training can also help with a variety of other issues, such as separation anxiety and nighttime disturbances. To learn more about these topics, check out our articles on positive reinforcement, crate training tips, separation anxiety, and nighttime dos and don’ts.

Drawbacks of Crate Training for Shih Poos

Crate training has its drawbacks when it comes to Shih Poos. While it is a highly effective way to train your Shih Poo, it is important to consider the negative aspects as well.

One of the main drawbacks is that it can be emotionally trying for your pet. This is especially true if your Shih Poo has separation anxiety. The idea of being confined in a crate may cause your pet to become anxious and distressed. Additionally, continuous confinement in a crate for an extended period can lead to depression and other behavioral problems.

Another disadvantage of crate training is the possibility of physical injury. In some cases, Shih Poos may try to escape from the crate and end up hurting themselves in the process. They may break a tooth, injure their paws, or even cut themselves on the crate’s sharp edges. This risk is especially high for energetic and adventurous Shih Poos.

A related disadvantage is that crate training can lead to digestive problems. Keeping your Shih Poo confined in a crate for too long can cause them to hold their bladder and bowels for extended periods. This prolonged retention of waste can lead to constipation, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and other digestive issues.

Finally, crate training may require a significant amount of time and effort on your part. To be effective, crate training requires consistency, patience, and persistence. For some Shih Poo owners, this can be a lot to handle, especially if they have a busy schedule.

Drawbacks of Crate Training for Shih Poos
Possible emotional distress, especially for Shih Poos with separation anxiety
Increased risk of physical injury, such as broken teeth or cuts from sharp edges
Prolonged confinement may cause digestive issues, such as constipation and UTIs
Requires consistency, patience, and persistence, which can be difficult for some owners with busy schedules

It is important to keep these drawbacks in mind when considering whether or not to crate train your Shih Poo. While crate training can be highly effective, it may not be the best fit for every dog. If you do decide to crate train your Shih Poo, be sure to ease them into it gradually and always keep an eye on their behavior to ensure they are not becoming overly anxious or distressed. For tips on successful crate training, you can check out our article on successful crate training.

How to Crate Train Your Shih Poo

To crate train your Shih Poo, follow these steps:

Step 1:	Choose the right size crate for your Shih Poo. It should be big enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Step 2:	Introduce your Shih Poo to the crate by placing treats and toys inside. Let them sniff around and explore the crate on their own.
Step 3:	Slowly start to associate the crate with positive experiences. Feed your Shih Poo their meals inside the crate and give them treats when they go in on their own.
Step 4:	Gradually increase the amount of time your Shih Poo spends in the crate, starting with just a few minutes at a time. Always stay nearby and reassure them with your voice and presence.
Step 5:	Use a command like “crate” or “kennel” to signal to your Shih Poo that it’s time to go into the crate. Reward them with a treat when they enter willingly.
Step 6:	Never use the crate as punishment. This will make your Shih Poo fearful and anxious about going inside.
Step 7:	As your Shih Poo becomes more comfortable with the crate, gradually increase the amount of time they spend inside. You can also start to close the door for short periods of time while you’re in the same room.
Step 8:	Eventually, your Shih Poo should be able to spend longer periods of time in the crate while you’re away from home. Be sure to leave them with water, a comfortable bed or blanket, and some toys to keep them occupied.

Remember, crate training takes patience and consistency. With the right approach, your Shih Poo can learn to love their crate as their own private space.

Free Roaming for Shih Poos

As a pet owner, you may be wondering about the benefits of free roaming for your Shih Poo. Free roaming refers to the practice of allowing your dog to move around your home freely, without being restricted by a crate or playpen. While this can be a good option for certain dogs and their owners, there are also some drawbacks to consider. In this section, we will explore the pros and cons of free roaming for Shih Poos, as well as tips for setting up your home to accommodate this option.

What is Free Roaming?

Free roaming refers to the practice of allowing your Shih Poo to have unrestricted access to your home, without confining them to a crate or specific area. It means that they can move around freely and explore their surroundings on their own terms. Here are some key characteristics of free roaming:

No physical barriers: Free roaming means that there are no physical barriers restricting the movement of your Shih Poo.
Unsupervised: Your Shih Poo is often left unsupervised while free roaming, which means they can get into mischief or potentially harm themselves.
Mental stimulation: Free roaming can provide your Shih Poo with more mental stimulation than crate training, as they have access to different areas to explore and play in.
Household rules: Free roaming doesn’t mean that there are no rules in the house. Your Shih Poo should still be trained to follow basic commands and house rules.
Access to amenities: Your Shih Poo will have access to all the amenities, such as food, water, and toys, while free roaming.

Free roaming can be a great option for Shih Poos who are well-trained, well-behaved, and enjoy exploring their surroundings. However, it may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those who are prone to destructive behavior or anxiety. It’s important to consider your Shih Poo’s personality, habits, and lifestyle when deciding whether or not to implement free roaming as a training option.

Advantages of Free Roaming for Shih Poos

When it comes to allowing your Shih Poo to free roam, there are numerous advantages to consider. Here are a few benefits of free roaming:

Increased socialization: Dogs are social creatures and need interaction with humans and other animals. By allowing your Shih Poo to free roam, they have more opportunities to socialize and develop their social skills. They can also bond with other pets in your household.
Better exercise: Free roaming is ideal for dogs that need to burn off energy, such as the Shih Poo. These dogs are known for their playful nature and need regular exercise to stay healthy. When free roaming, Shih Poos can run, jump, and play as much as they want, which helps them stay active and fit.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Being confined to a crate for extended periods can cause stress and anxiety in dogs. Free roaming allows your Shih Poo to explore their surroundings and satisfy their curiosity. This can reduce boredom and stress, resulting in a happier, healthier pet.
Less chance of developing destructive behaviors: Shih Poos are naturally curious dogs that love to explore. When confined to a crate for too long, they may develop destructive habits like chewing or scratching. Free roaming can help reduce the risk of these behaviors, as your pet will have more opportunities to explore their environment and satisfy their curiosity.
Improved potty training: Free roaming can be an effective way to potty train your Shih Poo. By allowing them to roam freely, you can observe their behavior and learn their cues for needing to go outside. This can speed up the potty training process and help your dog develop good habits.

While these benefits are desirable, it’s important to remember that free roaming also has its drawbacks. Before deciding whether free roaming is the right choice for your Shih Poo, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your pet’s needs and personality.

Drawbacks of Free Roaming for Shih Poos

Free roaming may seem like a convenient option for your Shih Poo, but it also has its drawbacks that you should consider before making a decision.

1. House Soiling: Free roaming can increase the risk of house soiling. Without proper supervision, your Shih Poo may choose to relieve themselves indoors, leading to unpleasant odors and potential damage to your floors and furniture.

2. Destructive Behavior: Shih Poos are known for their playful and curious nature, but this can also lead to destructive behavior if they are unsupervised. Free roaming gives your Shih Poo access to areas of your home that may have hazardous items or valuable possessions that can be damaged.

3. Separation Anxiety: Leaving your Shih Poo to roam free can lead to separation anxiety. Shih Poos are social animals and enjoy being around their owners. Leaving them alone for extended periods can cause anxiety and distress, leading to destructive behavior and excessive barking.

4. Lack of Discipline: Free roaming may also lead to a lack of discipline in your Shih Poo. Without guidance or boundaries, they may not learn appropriate behavior and may develop bad habits that are difficult to break.

5. Unsafe Environment: Finally, free roaming may not always be safe for your Shih Poo. They may come across harmful items, such as chemicals or small objects that can be swallowed, or they may accidentally injure themselves.

It’s important to weigh these drawbacks against the advantages of free roaming before making a decision. If you do choose to let your Shih Poo roam free, it’s important to take preventative measures, such as puppy-proofing your home and providing plenty of toys and stimulation to prevent destructive behavior.

How to Set your Shih Poo up for Free Roaming

Setting up your Shih Poo for free roaming

Free roaming may be a good option for your Shih Poo if you work from home or have a flexible schedule that allows you to supervise your dog throughout the day. Here are some steps to help set up your Shih Poo for free roaming:

Step	Action
Step 1	Designate a specific area in your home where your Shih Poo will be allowed to roam freely. This area should be comfortable and safe for your dog.
Step 2	Ensure that there are no hazards in the designated area that could harm your dog, such as exposed wires or sharp objects.
Step 3	Provide your Shih Poo with a comfortable bed or crate where they can rest when they want to take a nap or have some alone time.
Step 4	Provide plenty of toys and chews to keep your Shih Poo entertained and mentally stimulated throughout the day. This will also help prevent destructive behavior.
Step 5	Consider using baby gates or exercise pens to section off areas of your home that are off-limits to your Shih Poo, such as the kitchen or laundry room.
Step 6	Provide access to food and water throughout the day, but be mindful of portion control to prevent overeating and obesity.
Step 7	Establish a routine for potty breaks and be sure to give your Shih Poo plenty of opportunities to go outside and do their business.

Keep in mind that free roaming may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with a history of destructive or anxious behavior. If you’re unsure whether free roaming is right for your Shih Poo, consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer for guidance.

Crate Training Vs. Free Roaming: Which Option is Best for Your Shih Poo?

As a Shih Poo owner, you want to provide the best possible living situation for your furry friend. One of the important decisions you’ll have to make is whether to opt for crate training or free roaming. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, making it difficult to decide which one is best for your Shih Poo. In this section, we will weigh the pros and cons of each method, and help you make an informed decision for your beloved pet.

Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to crate train your Shih Poo or let them free roam, there are several important factors to consider. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, so it’s important to take these into account before making a decision.

Firstly, you should consider the age of your Shih Poo. If you have a young puppy, then crate training may be the best option in terms of potty training and keeping them safe when you’re not around. However, if your Shih Poo is older and already properly trained, then free roaming may be a better choice.

Secondly, you should consider your lifestyle and schedule. If your job requires you to be away from home for long periods of time, then crate training may be necessary to prevent destructive behavior and accidents. On the other hand, if you have a flexible schedule and can spend a lot of time with your Shih Poo, then free roaming may be a good option.

Thirdly, you should consider your living space. If you live in an apartment or a small house without a backyard, then crate training may be necessary for potty training purposes. However, if you have a large house with plenty of space for your Shih Poo to roam around and play, then free roaming may be a better choice.

Finally, it’s important to consider your Shih Poo’s individual temperament and behavior. Some dogs may feel more secure and comfortable in a crate, while others may become anxious and stressed. It’s important to take your Shih Poo’s personality into account when deciding which option is best for them.

Consider all of these factors carefully before making a decision on whether to crate train or let your Shih Poo free roam. Use the table below to help weigh the pros and cons of each option.

	Advantages	Drawbacks
Crate Training	Good for potty training Prevents destructive behavior when unsupervised Provides a safe haven for your Shih Poo	May cause anxiety and stress in some dogs May be seen as cruel by some pet owners Requires time and effort for proper crate training
Free Roaming	Allows for natural behavior and exploration No restrictions on movement May improve your Shih Poo’s mental and physical health	May cause accidents and destructive behavior if not properly trained May require more time and effort for potty training Not ideal for smaller living spaces or busy schedules

How to Choose the Best Option for Your Shih Poo

When it comes to deciding between crate training and free roaming for your Shih Poo, there are a few factors to consider in order to choose the best option for your furry friend. Here are some important things to think about:

Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle and how much time you can dedicate to training and supervising your Shih Poo. If you have a busy schedule, crate training may be a better option as it allows you to keep your dog safely contained when you’re not able to keep an eye on them.
Temperament: Take your Shih Poo’s personality into account. Some dogs may feel more secure in a crate, while others may find free roaming more comfortable. Additionally, if your dog is prone to destructive behavior or separation anxiety, crate training may be the better choice.
Training goals: Think about what you want to accomplish with your Shih Poo’s training. If you want your dog to be well-behaved when home alone, crate training can help establish good habits. On the other hand, if you want to give your dog plenty of exercise and stimulus, free roaming may be the way to go.
Living situation: Consider where you live and the space that you have available for your Shih Poo. If you live in a small apartment, free roaming may not be practical or safe. A crate provides your dog with a designated space that can be adjusted to the size of your home.
Health concerns: If your Shih Poo has medical issues or requires medication, crate training may be the better option for keeping them safe and secure while you’re away from home.

By carefully considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision about whether crate training or free roaming is best for your Shih Poo. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what will make your furry friend the happiest, healthiest, and most comfortable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deciding whether to crate train or free roam your Shih Poo is a personal decision that should be based on your lifestyle and your dog’s needs. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision.

Crate training can be a great option for owners who need to leave their Shih Poo alone for extended periods of time or who want to create a safe space for their dog. Crate trained dogs often feel more comfortable and secure in their crate, and the crate can be used to prevent destructive behavior and accidents when you can’t supervise your dog. However, crate training requires consistency, patience, and careful training to ensure that your dog is comfortable and happy in their crate.

Free roaming can be a great option for owners who are home most of the day and want their dog to have more freedom to explore and play. A well-trained dog can learn to not chew or damage furniture, and free roaming allows your dog to have more opportunities to exercise and socialize. However, free roaming requires a lot of time and effort to train your dog to behave appropriately and to set up a safe space for your dog to roam in.

Ultimately, the decision between crate training and free roaming comes down to your needs and your dog’s needs. If you work long hours and can’t supervise your dog, or if your Shih Poo is prone to destructive behavior, crate training may be the best option for you. If you’re home most of the time and want to give your dog more freedom to explore and play, free roaming may be the best option.

No matter which option you choose, it’s important to train your Shih Poo properly and to set them up for success. With patience and consistency, your dog can learn to be happy and comfortable in their crate or their free roaming space. Always remember to give your dog plenty of love, attention, and exercise to keep them healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is crate training safe for my Shih Poo?

Yes, crate training can be a safe and effective way to train your Shih Poo as long as you follow the proper guidelines and do not use the crate for punishment.

2. Can my Shih Poo roam free at all times?

No, it is not recommended for your Shih Poo to roam free at all times as it can lead to accidents and destructive behavior.

3. How long can my Shih Poo be crated for?

While every Shih Poo is different, it is generally recommended that they are not crated for longer than four hours at a time.

4. How do I know if my Shih Poo is ready for free roaming?

Your Shih Poo should be potty-trained, well-behaved, and have reached an appropriate age before you begin free roaming.

5. Do I need to buy a specific type of crate for my Shih Poo?

Yes, it is recommended that you purchase a crate that is appropriately sized for your Shih Poo and made of sturdy material.

6. Can my Shih Poo sleep in their crate?

Yes, many Shih Poos find comfort in sleeping in their crate and it can also be a way to prevent accidents during the night.

7. How do I prevent my Shih Poo from feeling trapped in their crate?

You can prevent your Shih Poo from feeling trapped in their crate by making it a comfortable and inviting space with toys and a bed.

8. Can I leave food and water in the crate with my Shih Poo?

No, it is not recommended to leave food and water in the crate with your Shih Poo as it can lead to accidents and an unclean environment.

9. What are some signs that my Shih Poo is not adjusting well to crate training?

Signs that your Shih Poo is not adjusting well to crate training can include excessive barking or whining, destructive behavior, and signs of anxiety.

10. Can I switch from crate training to free roaming or vice versa?

Yes, you can switch from crate training to free roaming or vice versa as long as you take the proper steps to transition your Shih Poo and monitor their behavior closely.