Quote:
Originally Posted by leorah
Just a thought: forcing a dog into a crate can create greater dislike for going into the crate in the future. Reinforce the crate as a great area for her to be by rewarding her for being in the crate, as mamh does. Use a high-value treat, like a bit of cheese. I'd keep her crated until you are sure she is trained, and even then, don't hide the crate away. You may need it from time to time, so you don't want her to forget how cool it is to be in her crate!
|
I agree with Leorah, but I would add that the personality of the dog can influence the sort of response I would have. If this is a tough-guy who is basically flipping the bird at you when you inform him that it's bedtime (if you have a tough-guy, you know exactly what I'm talking about), I would have no problem giving him some gentle physical encouragement into the crate. He (or she) will learn the right lessons from repetition of the refuse=force routine as long as you stay polite but firm and never have anger in your voice or hands. By the way, he still gets a treat after he's in the crate.
If this is a softer dog or a dog who is afraid, no forcing. If the dog is acting afraid of the crate you already have some remedial work to do and you don't want to dig that hole any deeper.
There is never a problem with baiting a puppy into the kennel. There should always be a positive association with the kennel door closing whether it is a tasty treat, a neck rub, a favorite toy or all three. The more the better.
Are you feeding all of the puppy's meals in the crate? He may ignore them for a while (he will not starve himself) but that can really go a long way towards alleviating crate anxiety.
I would add that the puppy is very unlikely to be ready for sleeping out of the crate. I don't like replacing baseboards, sheetrock, electrical cords or puppies if I can help it.
EDIT: It is always a good idea to (i) look at the dates on posts and (ii) read the whole thread before chiming in...
You're pup isn't from Minnesota by any chance?
Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! Some forums can only be seen by registered members. After you create your account, you'll be able to customize options and access all our 15,000 new posts/day with fewer ads.
