What is the recommended crate setup before practicing dogs back?

• A. In a crate as far from the entrance as possible.
• B. Crate at door, CAD.
• C. Leave dog outside near the door.
• D. Do not crate.

Answer: (B)

Crate setup before practicing dogs back centers on giving the dog a calm, predictable starting point that keeps them oriented to the training area and ready to transition into the exercise. Placing the crate at the door—Crate At Door—reduces distractions from outside and allows for smooth, quick transitions into and out of the crate as part of the routine. This position helps the dog stay focused and maintains consistency, so the door becomes part of the practiced sequence rather than a source of chaos. Compared with putting the crate far from the entrance or leaving the dog uncrated or outside, this setup supports better control, reduces arousal at the moment of starting the drill, and reinforces a reliable, orderly start to the back exercise.