[107barney]

I'm sorry you are feeling pressured by this trainer. I think there is a benefit to crate training so that when you have to crate your dog like for a trip to the vet or something like that, the dog won't be upset. I don't keep mine in crates either and never really did except for short periods. I did teach them the "kennel up" command and they will go into their crates on command...because it means something delicious is coming their way. Over the years I have reinforced the command so that I know that if I must crate them for a medical reason, they won't be stressed out by the crate....instead, it's a safe place where something yummy usually comes their way.

With all that being said, I think you should talk to this trainer very frankly and thank her for the information but tell her you reject it. Just be point blank about it. A good trainer works WITH YOU for your home and situation and I think a nice reminder to her about that is in order.

Good luck, try not to let this get you down on training - we've been doing obedience since ours were puppies and it is so rewarding to really be able to communicate with your dogs and have them be good citizens.