We see it all the time in dog groups and forums — people asking “What’s the difference between crates and kennels?” and getting a whole lot of mixed (and sometimes just plain wrong) answers.

So let’s clear it up — not as experts in fancy facilities, but as a cozy, home-based family raising puppies with care and intention. If you're curious, confused, or just want to know how we do things here at Crestie Charm Cottage, this post is for you. 💗


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🛏️ What Is a Crate?

A crate is a small, enclosed space designed to mimic a den — a safe, cozy retreat that helps dogs feel secure. Many dogs naturally enjoy having a space that’s just for them, and when used properly, a crate becomes a positive and familiar place.

Crates are widely used by all kinds of responsible dog owners, including:

🏡 Pet owners who want to create safe, structured routines at home

🧳 Travelers transporting their dogs by car or air

🏆 Show dog handlers who need a calm, safe place between ring appearances

🐾 Veterinarians for post-surgery recovery or observation

✈️ Airlines, which require safe crating for flights

🏠 Breeders like us, who use them to help puppies transition into home life


Crates are not punishment — they’re protection, structure, and comfort when used with compassion and purpose.


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In our home, crates are used lovingly and intentionally to support:

✅ Potty training

✅ Quiet rest and decompression

✅ Safe separation, especially during heat cycles or meals

✅ Travel safety and vet visits

✅ A personal space where each dog can feel safe and calm


Our puppies are introduced to crates gradually and positively — with soft blankets, familiar scents, and sometimes a littermate nearby. This helps set the stage for confident transitions into their forever homes.


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🏡 What Is a Kennel?

A kennel can mean a few different things depending on context:

A boarding facility for housing dogs temporarily

A commercial breeding setup with dogs housed in outdoor runs or separate buildings

A general term for a breeder’s group of dogs ("kennel name")


Kennels are typically larger enclosures, used to house multiple dogs, often in a more utilitarian, less personal setting. While they may serve a function for certain operations, kennels are not part of life here at Crestie Charm Cottage.


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🧡 Our Approach: A Home, Not a Kennel

We’re a small, heart-led hobby home — not a kennel facility. Our dogs live right alongside us, sharing our couches, our routines, and our lives.

We raise our puppies surrounded by love, snuggles, and daily interaction — not in kennels or outdoor runs.

Each puppy is handled daily, exposed to common household sights and sounds, and cared for as part of the family. We believe in creating a foundation of confidence and trust that stays with them for life.


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💬 Why This Matters for You

When you’re looking for a breeder, it’s important to ask:

“How are the puppies raised?”

The answer will tell you a lot about the kind of dog you’ll be bringing home. Puppies raised in structured, loving home environments — with healthy crate exposure and plenty of human interaction — tend to transition into family life more smoothly. They’re less fearful, more confident, and ready to bond.


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🐶 In Closing

Crates are a tool. Kennels are a structure.
But love, presence, and intentional care? That’s our foundation.

At Crestie Charm Cottage, our goal is to raise puppies who are not only healthy and beautiful, but also deeply connected, curious, and confident — because they’ve been loved from the very start.