Can I ask why people take the crate away when the dog gets older? The dog has grown up with the security and comfort that the crate has given them and chooses to go in there of its own accord as they see it as their space. it must feel a bit like having their house taken away from them. Its no different than a dog bed and we wouldn't take that away would we. I know a lot of people that say they need to keep their dog calm as a result of surgery or illness and a crate is ideal for this especially if they are used to being in one.