on reading other notices i see that crates are very popular,is this so?as i am due to get my puppy,english cocker spaniel soon, i was wondering if any one with experience could advise as to wether they  think it appropriate to use.i do have a baby gate which i can use for him, to restrict access but had only thought of crates before as  a rather cruel way to teach.i am a novice with pups and would appreciate any advice.thankyou.

Do a search on past threads and you will find posts for and against.