I never crated any of my dogs, even as puppies, and for a long time, I was very against it. Pet Talk and other sites have taught me that responsible crating can be a good thing for the dog and the owners. Can't tell you how many things were destroyed by my puppies in my absence, although I did gate them in the kitchen when I wasn't at home or available (they chewed my kitchen cabinets, the door frames, etc). I loved them anyway!