Enzos' New Crate

Craig/Tracy · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:04 pm Post subject: Enzos' New Crate

Its arrived. Looking for tips now guys. I've set it up and he went in straight away. I have lined it with a duvet and he seems relaxed and is in it with his kong. What do you reckon the next stages are i.e. when do I shut it etc. Question

Jack · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:44 pm Post subject:

To get him used to the door shutting just pop him in there with a toy/chew and whilst he's distracted by that very cooly and quietly shut the door as if it's no big deal. If it's no big deal to you and you make no fuss it'll be no big deal for him. Only leave it a few minutes then just as cooly open it again. Do this at intermittent intervals and for varying time periods and you'll find he just accepts it. Next step is progressing to leaving the room, then the house after you have crated him, again for varying periods of time. Stay chilled about it and he'll barely blink. My girls were no bother at all - they loved their crates from the outset Smile

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Craig/Tracy · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:52 pm Post subject:

Thanks Jack. He has just finished playing with his Kong and is sleeping in it. We are in the kitchen and watching it like nooooo way. How cool is this we may be able to have visitors again. Surprised

Jack · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:58 pm Post subject:

It's a fantastic feeling when you turn a corner isn't it? Wink

Keep at it - he and you ALL sound as if you are thriving. With John's one to one help and everyone on here willing to much in I am positive things will only keep getting better - stick to your rules and boundaries and before you know it you'll be able to welcome guests into your home without worrying over it Smile

Just don't be too keen and rush him - he (and ALL of you) are doing so well to come this far - these are for him - I'm sure he won't mind accepting them.xxxxxxx

PS......as tempting as it is.......don't be tempted to catch him offguard when he's sleeping and shut the door of the crate otherwise he could well freak out when he wakes. He's got to KNOW your doing it and not be troubled by it - calm acceptance is what you're after for maximum effect Cool

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John Thomson · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 9:59 pm Post subject:

Sounds as though both Enzo and you are getting on fine with the crate.......he will quickly see it as his place............tell the kids it is his place and do not let them approach it.better safe than sorry......I showed you Murphys reaction when a dog approaches his 'space' this is instinct and should have respect from the children..if needed bring them to class and i will show them......

John
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John Thomson
www.cumbernaulddogtraining.co.uk

Craig/Tracy · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:01 pm Post subject:

The door is shut and he is calm when I open it if he doesn't charge out which I don't think he's going to should I reward him ?
P.S. he loved the xxxxxxxx

Jack · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:02 pm Post subject:

The only thing my girls do when people approach their crates is gnaw and dig at the blessed things trying to get out to greet them Rolling Eyes

They just LOVE everyone!

But good point John - he HAS to see it as HIS safe haven where he can go for time out when HE needs it not just when it's convenient for us humans to put him there.
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Jack · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:05 pm Post subject:

John Thomson · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:12 pm Post subject:

He is seeing a great change in his lifestyle..........I think it is not worth the risk at the moment to let the children approach the crate........he needs somewhere he can feel secure......

John
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John Thomson
www.cumbernaulddogtraining.co.uk

Craig/Tracy · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:18 pm Post subject:

Yep we will make sure they know that is Enzos' room as he is not allowed in theirs they are not allowed ......... in his. The muzzle is still working as a great deterrent as soon as he is too excited we show him it and returns to calm submissive. By the way the door has been shut now for ten Min's and he is lapping it up.

John Thomson · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:26 pm Post subject:

as we discussed use a 'key ' word along with showing the muzzle and he will soon respond to the word rather than seeing the muzzle............

John
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John Thomson
www.cumbernaulddogtraining.co.uk

Craig/Tracy · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:40 pm Post subject:

Yeah we are using "DOWN" Evil or Very Mad

Jack · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 10:57 pm Post subject:

Craig/Tracy · Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2008 11:12 pm Post subject:

Done Jack

I is the boss lol he had a drink and went back in. Laughing

door open though but hey he doing so well

Joe · Site Addict Joined: 06 Nov 2008 Posts: 630

Its been brilliant watching the posts here Craig. it seems you have done really well.

Ben was introduced to a crate when he was young as you have done and it only gets used now when we want to party, or when we travel.

Its amazing when Ben goes in his cage how relaxed he becomes. But just like John says its his house and he does let people know that.

Well done
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