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modifying doxie pup schedule

Posted October 21st, 2007 by dogwalkerartist
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hi,
the doxie pup is now 10 months old. he doesn't have indoor accidents when i'm supervising him and the owner is catching on for the evening/night time.
right now he has 1 hour out of crate time after potty outside, used for walk, play,training and settle down time(playing by himself, chewtoys etc.-i try not to pay much attention to him, except to click/treat when he's doing the right thing and turning my back when he's attention seeking with barking or pawing). when he's inside he's on a leash. then he's in the crate for 2 hours. i think he's ready for more freedom. the last time i tried to go "cold turkey", ie not use the crate at all during the day, he peed repeatedly indoors almost immediately. it was weird. was he stressed?
so wondering what would be a good transition?
usually near the end of his out of crate hour, he goes into his crate for a nap. but sometimes will wander in and out if i leave the door open.
thanks for your input.
sincerely-jen the doxie nanny

Comments

transition

Aidan's picture
On October 26th, 2007 Aidan says:

Hi Jen, I think the first thing to do is reduce the amount of crate time when you are there, so long as you can supervise. He probably doesn't need to be left alone out of his crate at all, and that is the hardest part, so leave that until he's reliable with you supervising.

Regards,
Aidan
http://www.positivepetzine.com

update

On October 30th, 2007 dogwalkerartist says:

Hi Aidan,
Thanks for your reply.
I noticed today, increasing his out of crate time to 1 and 1/2 hours, he did fine in the morning, but in the afternoon when I sensed he was a little more tired-he had a hard time settling down even with his favorite chew(marrow bone), he just kept moving from one chew to another, ocasionally barking for attention. Finally I said - "I think you're ready to go in your crate" and he hopped right in and fell fast asleep. So I geuss I can play it by ear in the coming days. Is it normal for pups to be somewhat dependent on the crate for settling down?
Many thanks - Jen

crates for settling

Aidan's picture
On October 30th, 2007 Aidan says:

Hi Jen, it's not the crate as such but the fact that they can't really do much else in there I think. Eventually what happens is the crate becomes a stimulus condition, a cue to rest. So yes, it's pretty normal.

Crates, used with thought and care, are very handy especially with highly active dogs.

Regards,
Aidan
http://www.positivepetzine.com

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