Putting Safety First: The Hidden Dangers of Indestructible Crates for Dogs with Separation Anxiety

 

The crate may be indestructible, but your dog is not!

Our cherished canine companions are more than just pets; they're family. When dealing with the challenges of separation anxiety in dogs, we naturally want the best for them. Ensuring their well-being and safety is paramount. However, indestructible crates seem to be one of the most common and harmful recommendations on the internet right now. My stomach sinks every time I see this in dog Facebook groups. The intention is usually to prevent the dog from breaking out of the crate, hurting themselves, or destroying the house. However, it does nothing to relieve the intense panic the dog is experiencing on a daily basis and can be a false sense of security.

Have you ever considered that the well-intentioned use of indestructible crates may inadvertently jeopardize the safety and welfare of our anxious pups? 

In this article, we'll explore the hidden dangers of such crates, how they can cause chronic stress in dogs, and the wide-ranging impacts on their emotional, physical, and biological health.

The Physical Toll

Dogs struggling with separation anxiety often resort to panicked behavior, such as chewing, scratching, or desperate attempts to escape confinement. While indestructible crates are designed to withstand even the most determined pups, they can't prevent injuries to paws, teeth, nails, or noses. The physical consequences of such crates extend beyond injuries; chronic stress can lead to various health issues. Digestive problems, compromised immune systems, and skin and coat problems are just a few of the physical ailments that dogs may face.

Biological Impacts

The biological ramifications of chronic stress are profound and can have lasting effects on a dog's overall health. Here are some of the ways separation anxiety and the use of indestructible crates can impact dogs:

• Hormonal Imbalance: Stress triggers the release of stress hormones, like cortisol. When chronically elevated, this can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to long-term health issues.

• Neurological Changes: Chronic stress doesn't just affect a dog's mood; it can alter brain function, potentially affecting learning, memory, and overall cognitive abilities.

• Cardiovascular Strain: Chronic stress contributes to an increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, placing additional strain on the cardiovascular system.

• Inflammatory Responses: Long-term stress may lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to a wide range of health problems.

  
  

  The Behavioral Toll

  Chronic stress can also take a toll on a dog's behavior. It may manifest as increased anxiety, fear, aggression, reactivity, or even depressive symptoms. These behavioral changes can be distressing for both the dog and their guardians. 

  Some anxious dogs will eventually shut down in the crate and to the untrained eye, it seems the problem is solved! However, this isn't because they've learned that it's not scary. They are still likely experiencing a high level of discomfort. They've just learned that their behavior has no effect on their outcome. This is called learned helplessness - "A condition in which the being has a sense of powerlessness, usually arising from a traumatic event or persistent failure to succeed". Learned helplessness is thought to be one of the underlying causes of depression. Yes, dogs can experience many of the same mental health issues that we do! Unfortunately, there are self-proclaimed "trainers" out there who are using these crates with the intention of instilling learned helplessness by letting the dog "cry it out". They do not have your dog's well-being in mind and they are usually not transparent about how the method actually works or the potential fallout of it. Big red flag!

  Choosing a Compassionate Alternative

  Certified separation anxiety specialists are dedicated to helping you work with your dog's separation anxiety without causing panic and destruction. The truth is, you won't need an indestructible crate at all. In fact, investing in a specialist's guidance can be more effective and cost-efficient. For the price of an expensive crate, you can receive eight weeks of professional help. Don't fall for the clever marketing of crates targeting desperate pet parents; the crate is not the answer.  

  When it comes to managing separation anxiety in our canine companions, we must prioritize their safety, emotional well-being, and long-term health. The use of indestructible crates, while well-intentioned, can inadvertently cause more harm than good. If you're wondering what steps you should take to manage your dog's separation anxiety while you find a specialist, check out this article here! By choosing compassionate and specialized guidance, we can ensure that our furry friends receive the care and support they need. Together, let's work towards a happier, healthier, and more peaceful life for our dogs!