General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Dog - crate - sorry it's in GD but I need some advise [View all]defacto7
(13,485 posts)I've had dogs that loved their crate like it was their little cave. I've had others that hated it at first but they all got used to it as a fun or safe place. Out of the many dogs I've owned they eventually got to the point that the kennel was unnecessary and that happens pretty quickly once they understand the house. I'd spend more time getting them used to being free and trained than being in the kennel.
We have this one big 110 lb lumux of love that when their's a knock on the door he barks, barks, barks and I say 'ken'lup" and he runs directly into his kennel because he knows he gets a treat. Then I can get the door without him jumping on the visitor. He loves visitors, but he likes his treat even more. Once he settles down he comes out, gets a treat and no jumping on the guest. That's his routine and this is his only kennel time anymore.
Dogs have different personalities and needs. You just have to find the balance between your needs and their's along with learning their limitations. It's a big job. But lean toward freedom and let the kennel be more of a phase or a fun thing for her/him and you'll both be happier for it.