Long‑term kenneling can have serious consequences for a dog’s physical and emotional well‑being. When dogs are restricted to small cages for days, weeks or months at a time, their stress hormones rise, their ability to rest and regulate their body temperature declines, and they often develop stereotypic behaviours like pacing or spinning. A growing body of research shows that dogs thrive in enriched, cage‑free environments where they have room to move, soft places to sleep and hide, and opportunities to interact with people and other animals. At Don’t Cage Me In Animal Rescue we never use cages as a permanent solution. This guide explains why that approach matters and how you can create the same humane environment at home.
The science behind cage‑free care
- Stress hormones spike in kennels. Studies measuring cortisol in shelter dogs show that levels rise dramatically during the first days and remain elevated in barren kennels. Elevated cortisol is associated with suppressed immune function, gastrointestinal upset and behavioural problems.
- Restricted space produces maladaptive behaviours. Dogs kept in small kennels often develop repetitive behaviours, excessive grooming and other stress indicators. These behaviours are coping mechanisms rather than signs of a “bad dog.”
- Enriched environments improve welfare. When dogs are given access to comfortable bedding, toys, predictable routines and opportunities to choose where they rest or hide, stress indicators decline and learning improves. Pairing social time with safe management tools such as exercise pens and long lines increases confidence while maintaining safety.
- Pair and group housing reduce stress. Dogs are social animals; brief outings and pair housing decrease cortisol and improve adoption outcomes. Even short walks or yard time can lower stress, but long‑term welfare requires a cage‑free daily routine.
Designing a humane home environment
Creating a cage‑free space does not mean that you cannot use a crate or pen at all. Crates are excellent for short‑term management (for example, while traveling or when you cannot directly supervise), and many dogs come to love a den‑like space. The key is to offer choice and control. A humane setup includes comfy resting places, quiet retreats, environmental enrichment, predictable routines and safe social time. Rotate puzzle toys, chew items and scent games; scatter feeding engages the nose and brain; soft music or white‑noise machines can help sensitive dogs settle.
Comfort & Enrichment Essentials (affiliate)
Our approach: sanctuary, not storage
Don’t Cage Me In Animal Rescue was founded on the idea that every dog deserves dignity and space. We provide a permanent, cage‑free sanctuary for dogs deemed “unadoptable.” Dogs have access to indoor and outdoor areas with soft places to rest, shade and elevated cots. Every dog receives daily enrichment – food puzzles, sniff walks, stuffed Kongs and training games. We pair dogs for social play when it is safe, and we never use long‑term caging as a behaviour management strategy. Our promise is life and comfort, not simply shelter.
Conclusion
Kenneling is sometimes necessary for short periods, but it is not a humane long‑term solution. Research and experience tell us that dogs housed in enriched, cage‑free environments are healthier, happier and easier to live with. By providing comfortable resting spots, mental stimulation, predictable routines and opportunities for choice, you can give your own dogs the same dignity that our sanctuary dogs enjoy. Cage‑free care is more than a philosophy – it is an evidence‑based approach to meeting the physical and emotional needs of our canine companions.
Case studies from cage‑free shelters
Across the United States, forward‑thinking shelters like Best Friends Animal Society have demonstrated the transformative power of cage‑free environments. Formerly labelled “aggressive” dogs often blossomed after being provided with freedom of choice, mental stimulation and human companionship. Many transitioned into foster or adoptive homes thanks to the progress they made outside of a kennel. Research published in animal welfare journals likewise supports cage‑free housing. Studies show that dogs given ample space and enrichment have lower cortisol levels and display fewer repetitive behaviours. These findings align with guidelines from organisations such as the ASPCA, which advocate for housing that prioritises comfort, choice and social interaction.
Further Reading & Resources
- Best Friends Animal Society – articles on humane housing and enrichment.
- Revelation Pets: Benefits of cage‑free boarding
- Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science – research on kennel stress and enrichment.
- Why Some Dogs Are Labeled “Unadoptable”
- Foster & Adopter Guide
- Stop Hitting & Yelling: How Dogs Learn
- Understanding Common Medical Issues in Rescue Dogs