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It can be surprising the first time you notice your dog happily trotting into his kennel and settling down without being asked. Many owners find themselves wondering, “Why does my dog put himself in his kennel?” The good news is that in most cases, this behaviour is perfectly normal and even positive. Research shows that 64% of dog owners who continue crate training beyond puppyhood report fewer behavioural issues, which proves just how valuable and comforting a kennel can be when used the right way. This means your dog isn’t being unusual at all. He’s simply treating his kennel as his own little room where he can relax and recharge. In this post, we’ll look at the reasons why dogs choose to spend time in their kennels, when you should be concerned, and how you can make sure your dog’s kennel always feels like the best place in the house. The Value of a Crate Before we can answer the question, why does my dog put himself in his kennel, it’s important to understand the role a crate or kennel plays in a dog’s life. A kennel is much more than just a place to rest. It becomes your dog’s own personal “room.” Just as we like having a bedroom where we can close the door and relax, dogs often enjoy having a small, secure space to retreat to when they’re tired or simply need a break from daily life. Crates and kennels also serve a practical purpose. They are very helpful during training, especially for housetraining young puppies or newly adopted dogs. A well-used kennel can make travel easier, help dogs adjust to staying in hotels, and even reduce stress when visiting the vet. When introduced in a positive and gradual way, a kennel is never cruel. Instead, it offers your dog comfort and consistency in different situations. Making the Crate a “Great” Place / Building a Positive Habit If your dog already puts himself in his kennel, that means he has built a positive association with the space. To strengthen this habit, it’s important to keep reinforcing the kennel as a welcoming, enjoyable place. One way to do this is by offering rewards inside, such as giving your dog his favourite treats, chew toys, or even feeding meals in the kennel. When food and fun are linked to the kennel, your dog learns that good things happen there. Comfort also plays a big role. A soft blanket, a cozy bed, or even a blanket warmed in the dryer can make the kennel feel extra inviting. Many owners also keep special treats, like a stuffed Kong with peanut butter, as a kennel-only reward. By saving the best snacks for kennel time, you make the space feel extra special. The location of the kennel also matters. Dogs are social animals, so placing the kennel in a busy part of the home, like the living room, means your dog doesn’t feel isolated when resting. And remember, consistency is key. If the kennel is only used when you leave the house, your dog may start to associate it with being left alone. Instead, encourage short daily sessions while you’re home so the kennel becomes a normal and enjoyable part of your dog’s routine. The Root of the Behavior So, why does my dog put himself in his kennel? At first, it might feel strange to see your dog choosing the kennel over playtime, attention, or even treats. But in reality, this behaviour is often a sign of comfort rather than concern. Dogs are instinctive creatures, and just like people, they have moods, needs, and moments when they want their own space. In most cases, your dog putting himself in his kennel is perfectly healthy and natural. It’s his way of saying, “This is my spot, and I feel good here.” Still, there are a few important reasons behind this behaviour that every dog owner should understand. Recognising which one applies to your dog will help you respond in the right way. Your Dog Feels Safe There Dogs are naturally drawn to small, enclosed spaces because they resemble dens. A kennel gives them the same sense of safety and security that they would find in the wild when seeking shelter. For many dogs, it feels like their bedroom, a private space where they can rest without interruption. If your household is busy with children, guests, or a lot of activity, your dog may put himself in his kennel to enjoy some peace and quiet. Your Dog is Sick Sometimes, a dog may choose to retreat into his kennel because he isn’t feeling well. If you notice your dog is spending far more time inside than usual, refusing food, avoiding play, or showing little interest in walks, it could be a sign of illness. Dogs instinctively hide away when they feel unwell, so this change in behaviour should never be ignored. If you see these warning signs, it’s time to book a vet visit. Your Dog is Waiting for Food Many dogs are quick to learn patterns in their daily routine. If you often feed or give treats inside the kennel, your dog may be putting himself in his kennel because he’s expecting something tasty. This is actually a positive association, as it shows that your dog connects the kennel with good experiences. Just be careful not to overdo it with treats, as too many calories can lead to weight gain. Instead, focus on using part of his normal meals or healthy snacks to reward kennel time. Why Does My Dog Put Himself in His Kennel? In conclusion, if you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my dog put himself in his kennel?” the answer is usually a positive one. Most dogs put themselves in their kennel because they feel safe, comfortable, and secure in a space that is all their own. A kennel can act as a bedroom, a retreat when the household gets busy, or even a place of comfort when your dog is tired or anxious. At times, it can also signal that your dog is waiting for food or, in rare cases, feeling unwell. By making the kennel a warm, rewarding, and consistent part of your dog’s daily life, you can encourage healthy habits and keep it as a sanctuary rather than a place of stress. If you’re ready to create the perfect safe space for your dog, visit Benchmark Kennels today and discover how our designs can make your dog’s kennel the safest, most comfortable spot in your home.   Frequently Asked Questions  1. Is it normal if my dog puts himself in his kennel a lot? Yes, in most cases it’s perfectly normal. It means your dog sees his kennel as a safe and comfortable place. Just like people, dogs sometimes enjoy downtime in their own space. 2. Should I worry if my dog refuses to come out of his kennel? If it happens occasionally, there’s usually no need to worry. Your dog might just want quiet time. However, if your dog regularly refuses to come out and is also skipping meals, ignoring play, or avoiding the outdoors, it could signal illness or stress. A vet check is recommended. 3. How long can I leave my dog in his kennel? Experts generally recommend no more than four hours at a time during the day. Puppies need much more frequent breaks because of their small bladders. Overnight is usually fine as long as your dog is comfortable. 4. How can I make my dog love his kennel even more? Make the kennel a cozy, positive place. Offer rewards, keep it warm and inviting, and allow your dog to use it freely. Never use the kennel as punishment, or you risk undoing the positive feelings your dog has built. 5. Why does my rescue dog avoid the kennel? Some dogs may have had negative experiences in kennels before being adopted. In this case, patience is key. Introduce the kennel slowly, use rewards, and keep the experience positive. Working with a trainer may also help rebuild trust.

There are so many things to consider when you’re choosing a dog. Whether you’re a Staffie fan or a Labrador lover, the UK’s most popular dog breeds show how much a part of the family man’s best friend really is. Does your favourite dog make it into the top ten? Whether you’re on a hunt for a new addition to the family or are simply curious, Benchmark Kennels are here to highlight the UK’s most popular dog breeds. 1. Labrador Retrievers According to the Yorkshire Post, the pooches taking the top spot are Labrador Retrievers. Labradors are known for being friendly and warm and have a playful side that makes them a great choice for families with young children. Gentle and easy to please, they’ll fast become part of the family thanks to their loving, loyal nature. Happy exploring, swimming and playing, Labradors love being around people and are sure to give back any affection you give them. They’ll chew anything in sight though, so be sure to keep any expensive belongings out of reach. 2. Cockapoos Next up, Cockapoos are very popular among dog lovers thanks to their mixed breeding. These friendly pups are as intelligent as cocker spaniels, with the cute curly hair of poodles. Outgoing and hyper without shedding lots of hair, Cockapoos are very energetic, but won’t leave those with allergies sneezing due to being hypoallergenic. They can be easily trained and are friendly enough to live happily alongside young children. Adorably affectionate, cockapoos soak up love and affection and make the perfect pup for first-time owners. 3. Springer Spaniels Coming in at third place on the list of most popular dog breeds are Springer Spaniels. Bouncy and lively, they love being around people and staying active. With a tendency to run around as much as possible, they’re more suited to bigger houses with garden space and will want as much affection and love as you can give them. Springers are susceptible to putting on weight quickly, so it’s best to avoid giving them too many treats on a daily basis and means you will need to dedicate time each day to take them out on long walks. 4. Cocker Spaniels Definitely one of the cutest and most popular dog breeds, Cocker Spaniels are loyal and loving, wanting a lot of attention and giving it back, too. Cockers have long, soft hair that needs to be brushed frequently, so if you’re sharing your home with a cuddly Cocker Spaniel, be prepared for regular grooming. Affectionate and amenable, they’re as happy snuggling up on the sofa as they are exploring outside. With gentle, positive training, cocker spaniels can be the perfect companion to small children, the elderly and even other animals, as their friendly nature makes them sociable and eager to please. 5. Jack Russells Best known for their diva-like, independent qualities, Jack Russells are loud, playful and have almost endless energy. Fast and furry, Jack Russells can play for hours on end, so benefit from lots of love, playtime, and grooming to make sure their coats stay soft. Lively and curious, they won’t be afraid to let you know if they don’t get their own way, so they’re best suited to homes with older children and plenty of garden space for them to run around in. Just make sure to put a high fence up: did you know Jack Russells can jump up to 5 feet in the air? 6. German Shepherds Often known as Alsatians, German Shepherds are faithful, friendly and very loyal. While they’re often portrayed as police dogs, these caring canines can be very gentle, watchful and obedient if trained from a young age. German Shepherds are very protective of their family, and are wary of strangers, making them great guard dogs, family pets and even guide dogs. They are comfortable sleeping in outdoor dog kennels and need to be groomed a few times a week as their soft, fluffy hair sheds regularly. 7. Border Collies Loved for many years as sheepdogs, these well-known Collies are energetic and playful. Easily intrigued by noises and visuals, Border Collies are alert and quick to bark and let you know if there’s any danger coming, so they make excellent guard dogs too. They need a lot of activity and entertainment, so you should be prepared to take them on long daily walks, as well as having a range of dog toys to hand. This doesn’t mean they never sit still, though. Collies are loved by many families because they’re so keen to snuggle up at the end of the day. 8. Border Terriers Terriers are known for their energy: thanks to their hunting history, they’ll chase anything in sight. These feisty and independent dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK because of their strong instincts and sociable nature. Playful and friendly, Border Terriers prefer being in the company of their favourite humans, so shouldn’t be left alone for too long. As well as having tons of energy to spend running around outside, terriers also have a tendency to put on weight quickly, so it’s important they get a lot of exercise. 9. Lurchers Lurchers continue to top the popular dog breeds list because of their lovable, affectionate nature. Bred in all shapes and sizes, Lurchers love long walks and plenty of exercise and are known for being gentle and often quite shy. Because of their amiable, intelligent nature, many Lurchers are also very compatible with children and even other pets. While they need minimal grooming and can be trained easily from a young age, Lurchers can prefer to follow their own commands rather than their owners, so they’re not the best choice for a first-time dog owner. 10. West Highland White Terriers Sneaking into the last position of the most popular dog breeds, Westies are furry, friendly and fast. Originally bred as vermin hunters, these playful pups are very agile, with harsh white coats that need to be groomed regularly. Because they can push through hedges and underground easily, it’s important your Westie’s coat is clipped often to make sure the dead undercoat never causes any problems. Westies have tons of self-esteem, playful energy and are happy to socialise with other dogs, humans and even cats if trained to interact from a young age. Their independent nature means they’ll ignore commands if annoyed, but with firm training, they’ll come to enjoy your company all the more. Order a bespoke dog kennel to suit any breed today Whichever dog you choose to be your furry friend, Benchmark Kennels has you covered with high-quality wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennels to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and completely comfortable when outdoors. All our kennels can be completely customised to suit your environment, dog and needs. Get in touch for more information on our kennel range to find a luxury kennel fit for a king today. For even more ideas on what dog breed to pick why not try this A-Z of dog breeds to help you

They’re tiny, furry, hyper and sleepy all in equal measure, so introducing your puppy to their forever home can be an exciting time chock full of adventures, discoveries and cute (extremely Instagrammable) moments. What could go wrong?  Well actually, a surprising amount of mishaps throughout the toilet training process. Many inexperienced pet owners think that because puppies are so tiny they are easier to care for and create less mess than a fully grown dog. But just like little humans, puppies can have a range of needs as they’re learning and figuring out how to exist in a big, scary and confusing world. Think of them as, quite literally, your fur baby. Commencing toilet training as quickly as possible is essential if you want to avoid sleepily coming downstairs and stepping into puddles just when you’re about to make your morning coffee. Training is relatively simple once a routine is introduced, but it can be difficult to know where to start if you’ve never trained or handled a puppy before. To help, Benchmark Kennels have put together a simple guide packed with hints and tips to toilet train a puppy successfully. Set a puppy toilet training routine A regular routine is a key factor when it comes to toilet training, this allows your puppy to associate certain times of the day and locations with going to the toilet. You should also consider incorporating gentle commands, food treats and scent markers such as a soiled kennel or crate lining made of paper or fabric. The following are the major steps you and your puppers’ should include in your daily routine. Morning toilet As soon as you both wake up your puppy should be taken outside for morning toilet time, try not to pick them up as they need to learn to walk to the garden or yard themselves. You might choose to place their soiled puppy pad, blanket or newspapers from their crate on the ground to attract them to a specific area, so they can get a clearer understanding that it’s time to go to the toilet. It is helpful to introduce a gentle command such as ‘quickly’ or ‘toilet’ for them to associate with this time, location, and smell. During the early days of toilet training, puppies kept on a lead when you’re encouraging them to go to the toilet are less likely to roam and explore, once they’re old enough to understand what they should do, you can leave the lead indoors. Throughout the day A puppy needs to go to the toilet roughly once every two hours because their bladders are so small, but some owners prefer to aim for every half hour. Whichever time frame seems to work best for your puppy, take them outside into the garden or yard and repeat their morning routine, rewarding them with a treat when they get it right. Mistakes are totally normal, and although they can be frustrating, do not punish your puppy for getting toilet time wrong. Keep an eye of them throughout the day for signs they might need the toilet, especially if they failed to go the last time you took them outside. Once you notice the signs like sniffing, whining and walking in circles, take them back outdoors. After meals Puppies feel the need to go outside to the toilet relatively soon after each meal. This can fall between five minutes to half an hour after they’ve eaten and had a drink, so keep a keen eye on them post-breakfast, lunch and tea. The older the puppy, the longer the gap between mealtimes and toilet times becomes, generally adult dogs can wait longer because of their increased bladder capacity. Night-time toilet training During the night your puppy is left alone without any supervision unless they are kept in your sleeping area. Though some might experience separation anxiety, a puppy which has been given ample opportunity to become familiar with their surroundings will not become as distressed and is more able to settle down for the night. However, it’s important not to have unreal expectations for the outcome of their bedtime routine. Accidents are bound to happen, especially in the early days. It’s advisable to keep your puppy secured in their crate or kennel overnight so they cannot wander through rooms and have accidents on hard and soft furnishings. Put down a toilet pad or a few layers of newspaper on the floor of their crate to soak up toilet mess which can be removed easily with minimal fuss in the morning before they head out into the garden for their morning toilet. If (by some Mission Impossible methods) your puppy manages to escape their crate or kennel and leaves a trail of accidents in their wake, it’s best to clean it up using absorbent tea towels, warm water and washing powder with a nail brush for scrubbing. Alternately, a non-toxic antibacterial liquid or a wash recommended by your vet can be used to sanitise the area of the accident and leave a scent that prevents your puppy from wanting to soil that area repeatedly. Learn from accidents Do not chastise your puppy when they do have an accident, it is physiologically unavoidable when they are progressing through their formative months. At worst being shamed will terrify and scare them, leading to a disconnect in your companionship and them trusting you less than they should. Do not shove their noses in their accidents or shout at them, as they will not understand, instead, try to gently encourage and reward them for the things they do get right. Stay calm, sanitise the area of the accident thoroughly and use the experience as a valuable learning curve that you’ll need to be more vigilant, attentive and careful regarding your pup’s toilet habits over the coming months. If your puppy is halfway through going to the toilet when you catch them having an accident, quickly pick them up and take them into the garden. They may be able to finish going to the toilet in the correct location. Whatever accidents happen, it helps to know that it’s not forever, soon enough they will be adult dogs able to take care of their own toilet needs at home and on walks. Need a bespoke kennel for your puppy to feel comfortable in? Benchmark Kennels are a manufacturer of bespoke dog kennels, giving dog owners of all breed types, sizes and temperaments a secure and spacious place to stay outdoors. Every kennel is custom-made, meaning you can choose the exact size, material, properties and architecture of the kennel itself to ensure it suits your dog and the outside of your property. You can order a wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennel directly from our website today or contact us via phone to find out more about our excellent range of kennels.

All dog owners will know that once welcomed in the home, a dog becomes part of the family. A happy dog is there for affection, playtime, or simply just some company whenever you need them to be. Aside from making lovely family pets though, you may also want a dog that can offer a sense of security and protect you and other family members when necessary and a family protection dog can help do that. When researching family protection dogs, you might assume to go for dog breeds known for their aggression, but this is the wrong approach. Look instead for traits like loyalty, intelligence, bravery and obedience. You should be able to train and control your dog to be protective in the right ways and at the right times. A dog that becomes highly aggressive in response to every slight noise or movement can actually do more harm than good for family life. Training is key for you to end up with a reliable family pet that knows the difference between intruders or danger and innocent passers-by. So, which are the best family guard dogs? Benchmark Kennels are here to share their favourite family-friendly dog breeds that can also offer protection from potential dangers at your home or property. English Bullmastiff To kick-off, we have English Bullmastiff. Strong and powerful, the sheer look of this breed should be enough to prevent potential intruders or threats from coming anywhere near your home. Bullmastiffs are large, muscular and heavy animals, making them a match for any human or other animal that poses a threat. Aside from the natural strength and immense power they can utilise when necessary though, they are extremely docile dogs. Until there is a threat present, a Bullmastiff’s temperament is largely calm, quiet and loving. Their relaxed nature makes them suitable family protection dogs for those with small children that will want to give their pet plenty of affection and love, without the worry of your dog becoming agitated. On top of this, English Bullmastiffs, like most dogs, are completely loyal to their owners. They will fiercely protect their ‘pack’ at all costs, so it’s important to teach them the right types of behaviour from a young age. With this breed of dog being so strong, strict and consistent training is required from a young age to ensure that English Bullmastiff understands who is boss and can be easily kept under control with simple commands later in life. If you’re considering welcoming a family protection dog of this size into your home, an outdoor dog kennel is advised. This way, you can keep your dog safe, secure, and under control without having to allow it free roam of your property. At Benchmark Kennels, our top-quality dog kennels can provide a temporary or permanent home for your family’s protection dog. Available in a range of sizes to suit a large or smaller breed of guard dog, you can also choose from a wooden or WPC eco-thermal kennel to keep your family dog warm and dry in any weather. Next up is the Doberman Pinscher, a breed originally bred for guard dog purposes meaning these traits are practically ingrained in the dogs still today. Dobermans as a whole are extremely intelligent animals, willing and eager to listen and learn from their owners. Because of their intelligence and athleticism, it’s essential to train them right and keep them in check if you want them to fit into family life as well as offer security. Doberman Pinschers are large in size and extremely athletic animals, so are fitting family guard dogs for larger properties, where they will need to be agile and fast to detect or catch intruders. Their strong build, intelligence and alert nature make them a popular dog breed used in the police and army, though this doesn’t mean they can’t make lovable family pets too. German Shepherd German Shepherds are a common dog breed in the UK, popular for their stunning long-haired appearance and sweet nature. They’re herding dogs by nature, originally used on farms to protect sheep from predators – hence the name. While they make lovely family pets, they’re also widely used in the police force due to their strong sense of smell, speed, strength and obedience. A German Shepherd is an extremely versatile breed. Their willingness to learn and adapt to training means you can mould your pet to fulfil practically any role, whether your main goal is to have an affectionate and loving pet or a guard dog that lives primarily outdoors. Whereas Doberman’s are naturally quick to be on the defence, a German Shepherd will only do so if it feels their family or ‘herd’ is in imminent danger, making them an ideal family-friendly guard dog. A well-socialised German Shepherd can provide your family home with peace of mind knowing that there is protection available, without the worry of unpredictable or uncontrollable behaviour. Giant schnauzer Another more unexpected contender when it comes to the best guard dogs for a family is the Giant Schnauzer. While the Schnauzer isn’t usually associated with protection or intimidation, the size and strength of a Giant Schnauzer make it the perfect mix of family pet and guard dog. When they need to be a Giant Schnauzer can be extremely loud with their volume being enough on its own to scare or warn off any potential dangers. Unlike the Miniature Schnauzer which can be found in many family homes across the UK, the Giant Schnauzer needs plenty of training and attention if it’s to mix well with children and live happily in your home. Getting a Giant Schnauzer from a young age is important to ensure plenty of socialisation, early foundational training and consistent mental and physical stimulation. A happy Schnauzer can be a perfect family member, but a bored one can be the complete opposite and lead to the wrong kinds of guarding behaviour. Bernese mountain dog Finally, there’s the Bernese Mountain dog. It’s the sheer size and volume of these dogs that put them in the category of family protection dogs, nothing more. By nature, they are especially calm and unaggressive, but this shouldn’t be confused with a lack of alertness. Bernese Mountain dogs are a highly intelligent breed so are ideal to use as watchdogs and are great as a scare tactic if any potential intruders do pass by your property. All in all, this type of mountain dog is a cuddly, loyal and obedient family protection dog, perfect for families with children of all ages that have space to welcome a large furry friend into their home. Best guard dogs for a family – who wins? The right family protection or guard dog for your home will be completely dependent on the size of your property, the ages of your family members and the role you want your pet to fill. Whichever breed you end up going for though, keep in mind that training and rules are the only way to keep a guard dog in check. Passive owners lead to disobedient and unruly large dogs that can wreak havoc in your home and become intimidating to family members or visitors, so be prepared to dedicate time and attention to your pet. It’s also worth mentioning that although certain dog breeds are better suited for protecting families in terms of build and strength, it still largely comes down to the individual temperament of your animal. Each dog is different, with some being a lot harder to train than others. Always be aware of your dogs’ character and try to understand that not every dog will be made for protection, despite their size! Family protection dogs as pets – need advice? If you’re still undecided this link may help pick a breed .When your settled on a breed and are ready to bring your new puppy or dog home, it’s time to think about where your large dog will live at your home. Benchmark Kennel’s manufacture and install sturdy, indestructible and highly secure dog kennels to properties all across the UK. Get in touch with our friendly team to hear more or order your custom dog kennel via our website at your convenience.