Wow!! Thanks for all the replies!

I wish I knew about a crate when I had a Golden Retriver many years ago! He would have really benifited from that.

My MIL should know better, but I have no idea what goes on in her mind. Lady is crated all day and only comes out when she is fed or for a potty break, or when Judy feels the need to play with her. Lady is a Springer Spanial and a fairly good size dog...who's cage is too small for her They have another dog, a German Shepard is isn't allowed in the house at all!! And then they have a cat who is confined to a small room all day & night. I really feel sorry for all of the animals.

My niece and her mother have smaller dogs, Yorkies (I think) and since my niece is pregnant she only allows the dogs to come out and play with her 5 year old at certian times. She was planning to bring both of the dogs to my house for an overnight visit (they live 2 hours away) but when I told her no, because of my cats - who have never been around dogs - that's when she told me that they stay in crates all day! ( I still told her -no-)

These people are good people, I just don't know why they are doing this. I can fully understand what all of you have told me about behavior problems, etc. and I do agree with that, but to have pets at your convienece is beyond me

Thank you for all of your inputs......I did learn something. It just breaks my heart to see these loving dogs locked up for no good reason. Thanks again!!