Monday 9 February 2009

Lhasa Apso Crate Training [Part Two]

'Under Special Circumstances' - what exactly does that infer?

The where, when, and how of using crates correctly is what I am referring to by the 'under special circumstances' label.

I firmly believe crates should not be used to leave your pet confined/restrained in a small space for any length of time. Further to that, they should most definitely not be used as a form of 'punishment'.

There are places where a crate is extremely useful.

If you transport a number of dogs to and from training - for example... for agility, flyball, dancing to music, obedience, or for dogs who do TV or film work - then having stacking crates in a large van will be a necessity, and will work out extremely successfully. Even if you transport one or two dogs by car for any appreciable distance, then a crate per dog, with a comfortable bed, will keep your pets safe and free from being thrown about whilst on the move.

A nervous dog or a rescue who wants a sanctuary, or if you have children and your pet wants a little peace from them [you MUST make it a strict rule that the children do not go near the dog when it is in its crate] - then a crate in a quiet place within the home can be a good option. In these cases the door to the crate should always be left OPEN.

If you have to leave your puppy for SHORT periods of time, then you may also consider a crate. [An alternative option is to 'puppy-proof one room in your house, and use an old child gate or buy a special puppy gate to keep them to that room only!]

The most favoured crates come in wire mesh, have a plastic tray for the floor of the cage, and may have optional extras... such as a cover for the top - makes it seem more like a secluded sanctuary for your pet - and a removable divider - that way the crate can 'grow' with your puppy!

The plastic tray will help with cleaning up any accidents - buy pads, or use newspaper and put in one end of the crate with a 'cardboard box bed' [mentioned in a previous post] at the opposite end. Use this option if you really must leave your pet alone for a considerable amount of time... do make sure your pet has relieved itself before you leave. Do remember all dogs hate to 'mess their beds'!

When you buy a wire mesh crate, whether plastic covered or not, do make sure there are no sharp protrusions anywhere AND, more importantly, make certain that the guage is close enough so that your pups paws and head will not go through the holes of the mesh and get stuck. That could potentially be the cause of a nasty, and expensive, accident to your poor pup!

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