IMO, I dont think its cruel...as long as its used correctly as others have said! I have one for my pup, wasnt sure about getting one at first but for during the night and if we are out, I have no-where to let the pup roam without getting everythin chewed and pee n poop everywhere. He is only left in for a max of couple of hours if we go out and I make sure he has water and I've started giving him a filled knog to keep him amused

During the day, the door is always left open for him to go in and sleep but he rarely does, unless he wants peace from the kids! But I try to make sure its comfy and inviting (various toys and his comfy blanket) so that he can try to 'enjoy' his time in there as much as possible.

x