Unfortunately, you can't discipline after the fact (although I'm POSITIVE my Shi Tzu feels guilty and tells me when I need to go look for something wrong!).
I know that most people here prefer the x-pen to a kennel. But all my dogs have been kenneled when we're gone. I was advised that way by my very first breeder. I believe that the dogs truly love it. My older one does have the run of the house now, but was kenneled as a pup. Usually when we get our keys or whatever, if they don't see a bag or a leash, they run into their kennels. They get a treat with every single kennel and usually a special chew toy that they don't normally get. They are never upset when we return home. And I know that they have been safe and secure the entire time. Kennels aren't for everyone, but I just wanted to let you know that they aren't cruel for the dogs. |