Chicken picking at feet

[BeckyBoo]

I used a crate to help toilet train Delilah overnight and it worked a treat. It was also a great place for her to go when she'd had enough of noisy son and it was easy to tell the children that when she was in her crate she wasn't to be disturbed. When she was little it was great for putting her in if we went out, helped toilet train her and stop her eating the entire house, furnishings and all!

But now she's bigger I don't use it unless I'm carting cockerels around the county!

 

I know they love their dog, but realistically they can't expect you to be a part time parent to what is really their responsibility, forever. If you'd have wanted two dogs I suppose you would have got another. You've given it your best shot and it's not working. I love puppies but they're darned hard work, the only thing I would put in is that this is probably the hardest bit, as he / she grows it should become easier. Doesn't mean she's still not their problem though, I really think they're asking a bit too much - this could go on for another 10-14 years!!

 

BeckyBoo

[little chickadee]

I'm another one who would recommend getting a puppy crate. If it's introduced properly the dog is not in the slightest distressed. I was a bit dubious when we started puppy walking, but I honestly wouldn't consider having a puppy now without a crate. Raffles is currently asleep in hers at the moment with a cover over it to make it into a den. It would really free up your life being able to go out and know that the dog was safe and not about to destroy your house.

 

I know that opinion is greatly divided on this subject though!

[The Dogmother]

As the others have said, you really need to stick up for yourself Kitchens.

 

I agree LC. Crates weren't used when I had dogs 'in the old days'.

 

I think they are wonderful though, and used correctly are an asset to the dog's training and a place for them to go when they need some quiet. Ruby sleeps in hers at night, with the door closed and she's quiet as a mouse. She has the run of the downstairs when I am in and the kitchen when I'm not; aside from being an exuberant lurcher pup, she's very well behaved